What Is Levetiracetam for Dogs and What Is It Used For?

Confused by full spectrum vs broad spectrum CBD for your dog? Here's the real difference, including THC content and which is safer for pets.

When shopping for CBD, you’ll often come across two common options: full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD.

These two types might look alike, but the main difference is in their cannabinoid content, particularly whether they contain THC.

Choosing the right type can affect the benefits you experience, especially if you’re using CBD for wellness, pain relief, anxiety, or sleep.

In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between full spectrum vs broad spectrum CBD, compare their benefits and drawbacks, and help you decide which option is best for your needs.

TL;DR

If you’re looking at two bottles and want to know which is best for your dog, here’s the main difference.

Full spectrum CBD has CBD plus all the other cannabinoids and terpenes found in hemp, including small amounts of THC (no more than 0.3% by law).

Broad spectrum CBD begins as full spectrum, but then goes through another step to remove the THC while keeping the other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Which is safer for dogs? Broad spectrum is usually the safer choice, since dogs are much more sensitive to THC than people. Even tiny amounts can affect small dogs.

What Is CBD?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound taken from the cannabis or hemp plant and is often made into oil.

Pet owners use it to help their dogs, cats, and horses with anxiety, joint pain, seizures, and stress caused by health issues, thunderstorms, or simple visits to the vet.

CBD is different from THC because it does not make dogs "high." Instead, it works with their endocannabinoid system to help manage mood, pain, inflammation, and balance.

It’s available in several forms, including oils, treats, capsules, and creams, so you can find the option that's most suitable for your dog's size and needs.

Cannabis plants have many active compounds, but the two most well-known are:

• CBD (cannabidiol)
• THC (tetrahydrocannabinol)

The main difference is that THC is psychoactive, so it can cause a “high,” while CBD is not.

CBD is usually found as an oil, while THC can be found in different forms, including the plant itself.

CBD is generally considered safe when it comes from reputable, third-party-tested products. However, pet owners should always talk to their veterinarian before starting any new supplement.

What Are The Types of CBD

CBD products generally fall into one of three categories, each containing a different cannabinoid profile.

• Full-Spectrum CBD contains all of the naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids found in the hemp plant. This includes cannabidiol (CBD), cannabigerol (CBG), and trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) that remain within the legal limit.
• Broad-Spectrum CBD contains the same range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids as full-spectrum CBD, but with the THC completely removed.
• CBD Isolate is the purest form of CBD. It contains only cannabidiol (CBD), with all other cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds removed.

Many researchers and pet owners believe that CBD products containing multiple cannabinoids and terpenes may provide greater therapeutic benefits than CBD isolate alone. This is due to the entourage effect, a theory suggesting that these naturally occurring compounds work together to enhance each other's effects.

Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum CBD

CBD products usually come in two types: full spectrum and broad spectrum. Both are made from hemp and may provide similar benefits.

The table below shows the main differences between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD, such as their cannabinoid content, THC levels, and best uses.

1. Full Spectrum CBD

Full spectrum CBD is a hemp extract that keeps all the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, including CBD, minor cannabinoids like CBG and CBN, terpenes, and up to 0.3% THC by dry weight.

That small amount of THC is part of what’s called the “entourage effect.” This idea suggests that cannabinoids and terpenes work better together than alone.

For people, 0.3% THC isn’t enough to cause a high. For dogs, it’s different because they have more cannabinoid receptors in their nervous system, making them more sensitive to THC even at low levels.

2. Broad Spectrum CBD

Broad spectrum CBD is made like full spectrum, but then it goes through another step to remove the THC while keeping the other cannabinoids and terpenes.

The result is a product with many hemp compounds working together, but without the THC that can make full spectrum riskier for pets.

Broad spectrum is not the same as isolate, which has only CBD. Broad spectrum is in the middle, keeping most of the plant’s helpful compounds but removing the one that’s riskiest for dogs.

How Does CBD Work?

CBD products support your dog's health by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors found throughout the brain, nervous system, immune system, and many other tissues.

The ECS helps regulate important functions like pain perception, inflammation, mood, sleep, appetite, and the body's response to stress.

Unlike THC, CBD doesn't strongly bind to the ECS receptors. Instead, it influences how these receptors work and also interacts with other systems involved in pain, inflammation, and anxiety. This broad activity is one reason CBD has become a popular wellness supplement for dogs.

1. Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are the active compounds naturally found in hemp. The two best-known are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

CBD is non-intoxicating and is the primary cannabinoid used in pet products. It works alongside your dog's own naturally occurring endocannabinoids to help maintain balance throughout the body.

THC also interacts with the ECS, but unlike CBD, it binds strongly to receptors in the brain. High levels of THC can be toxic to dogs, which is why pet CBD products contain either no THC or only legally permitted trace amounts that are not enough to produce intoxicating effects.

2. Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in hemp as well as many fruits, herbs, and flowers. They give plants their distinctive scents, but they also have biological activity of their own.

While most terpenes don't directly activate cannabinoid receptors, they can influence other pathways involved in inflammation, stress, and mood. Some, such as beta-caryophyllene, can even interact with CB2 receptors that play a role in immune function.

3. The Entourage Effect

One of the biggest differences between full spectrum, broad spectrum, and CBD isolate is the number of plant compounds they contain.

Researchers believe that cannabinoids and terpenes may work better together than they do individually. This interaction is known as the entourage effect. Rather than relying on CBD alone, full spectrum and broad spectrum products combine multiple cannabinoids and terpenes that may complement one another and enhance their overall benefits.

• Full spectrum CBD contains CBD, other naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and trace amounts of THC.
• Broad spectrum CBD contains many of the same beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes but has the THC removed.
• CBD isolate contains only purified CBD, without any additional hemp compounds.

For this reason, many pet owners prefer full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD over CBD isolate, as they provide a wider range of naturally occurring hemp compounds while still remaining safe for dogs when used as directed.

Why THC Sensitivity Matters More for Dogs Than People

This is where CBD for people and CBD for dogs are very different. For people, 0.3% THC is just a legal detail and doesn’t have much effect. However, your dog might suffer from the following:

• Ataxia (loss of coordination): wobbling, stumbling, or appearing “drunk”
• Lethargy: unusual sleepiness or lack of responsiveness
• Urinary incontinence: dribbling urine without the usual signs of needing to go out
• Low heart rate or body temperature: bradycardia or hypothermia in more significant exposures
• Dilated pupils: eyes appear larger or more dilated than normal

These symptoms usually happen with much higher THC exposure than what’s in a well-made full spectrum CBD product. Most cases involve pets getting into someone’s THC or marijuana products, not a measured hemp supplement.

Still, this is why many pet owners pick broad spectrum or THC-free options to be safe, especially for small, older, or sick dogs.

How to Choose Between Full Spectrum and Broad Spectrum for Your Dog

There isn’t one single “right” answer for every dog and every situation, but considering a few practical factors like your dog’s size, overall health, and how much THC exposure you’re comfortable with can make the choice between full spectrum and broad spectrum much clearer:

• Your dog’s size and sensitivity: Small dogs feel the effects of any dose, including tiny amounts of THC, more than big dogs do.
• Any health issues: Dogs with liver, kidney, or heart problems, or those on other medicines, usually do better with broad spectrum or THC-free products because they’re more predictable.
• Product quality and testing: Full spectrum products from trusted brands with third-party lab tests are much safer than untested ones, since some products have more THC than the label says.

Your comfort level: If you want to avoid THC completely, broad spectrum takes that worry away.

How to Read a CBD Label and Verify What’s Inside

Since the CBD industry isn’t tightly regulated, you can’t always trust the label alone to tell you what’s in the bottle.

Here’s what you should check before buying any CBD for your dog:

If a product doesn’t have a public COA, don’t assume it’s THC-free just because it says “broad spectrum.” Pick brands that make lab results easy to find.

Tips to Use Full Spectrum or Broad Spectrum CBD

Whether you choose full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD, getting the best results comes down to using a high-quality product and giving your dog the right dose. Every dog responds differently, so it may take a little time to find the amount that works best.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start with a low dose: Begin with the manufacturer's recommended amount based on your dog's weight. If needed, gradually increase the dose over several days while monitoring your dog's response.
• Choose a trusted brand: Look for products made specifically for pets that include third-party lab testing to verify cannabinoid content and ensure they're free of contaminants.
• Use CBD oil for flexible dosing: CBD oil makes it easy to adjust the amount as needed and can be placed directly in your dog's mouth or mixed with food. Although mixing it with food may delay absorption slightly, it doesn't reduce the overall benefits.
• Be consistent: CBD often works best when given daily rather than occasionally. Some dogs experience noticeable effects within an hour, while others may need several days or weeks of consistent use before seeing the full benefits.
• Monitor your dog's response: Keep an eye on changes in your dog's comfort, mobility, anxiety levels, or overall behavior. This can help you and your veterinarian determine whether the current dose is appropriate.

If you're unsure how much CBD your dog needs, use the dosage guide provided on the product label or consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

How Much CBD Should You Give Your Dog?

The ideal CBD dose depends on your dog's weight, age, health condition, and the reason you're using CBD. There isn't a one-size-fits-all dosage, so it's best to start with the manufacturer's recommended amount and adjust gradually if needed.

A good rule of thumb is to start low and increase slowly while monitoring your dog's response. This allows you to find the lowest effective dose without giving more than necessary.

If you're unsure where to begin, follow the dosing chart on your product's label or use our CBD Dosage Calculator to determine the appropriate amount based on your dog's weight.

Does CBD Have Side Effects

CBD is generally well tolerated by dogs, and most experience few or no side effects when given the correct dose. Whether you choose full spectrum, broad spectrum, or CBD isolate, the safety profile is similar when products are made specifically for pets.

Some dogs may experience mild side effects, especially when starting CBD or taking more than recommended. These can include:

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth or increased thirst
• Mild digestive upset, such as diarrhea
• Temporary changes in appetite

CBD can also interact with certain medications because it is metabolized by liver enzymes that process many prescription drugs. This may affect how quickly some medications are broken down in the body.

For this reason, it's important to speak with your veterinarian before giving CBD to a dog that is taking other medications or has liver disease.

While full spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC and broad spectrum CBD does not, both types are considered safe for dogs when used as directed and purchased from reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing like Innovet.

What Form Of CBD Is Most Effective?

Full spectrum vs broad spectrum CBD? At first, it can seem complicated choosing between full spectrum or broad spectrum, especially if you’ve never used CBD before. That’s why at Innovet, we’re here to help make the selection process fairly simple.

In most cases, going with a full spectrum CBD is best. If you are worried about THC appearing on a drug test because you're taking large doses of CBD daily, then you may wish to switch to a broad spectrum. If you’ve tried CBD full spectrum, but it leaves you feeling tired even at low doses or leaves you feeling off, you may have a sensitivity to THC. In that case, give CBD broad spectrum a try.

If you’re looking to give CBD to your pet, full spectrum CBD is recommended. Because again, full spectrum is guaranteed to provide the strongest entourage effect. While THC can have concerning side effects at large dosages, it is quite safe in low amounts where it still has significant advantages to achieving better health. And this is typical for many medications and dietary supplements like vitamins as well. Last, research and clinical trials often prefer the effects of CBD and THC together.

Full spectrum CBD has remained the most popular type of CBD since it first appeared. And sometimes there is no point in changing what's already great.

Choose the Right Innovet CBD Product for Your Dog

Innovet’s PurCBD+ oil has just two ingredients: hemp extract and hemp seed oil. There are no additives or preservatives, and it’s made with dogs’ THC sensitivity in mind.

Full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD both work with your dog's endocannabinoid system, but the right format depends on how much control you want over dosing and what your dog will actually eat.

For owners who want to titrate the dose precisely and adjust as their dog's needs change, PurCBD+ Oil is our full-spectrum formula.

If joint health is the priority alongside general wellness support, our hemp dog chews combine CBD with ingredients formulated for mobility, and the complete mobility chew bundle pairs these for dogs who need extra support.

For dogs who won't take oil, or owners managing anxiety and stress day to day, our steak cheese and hemp treats deliver the same calming support in a treat they'll actually want.

Talk to your vet about which spectrum and format fits your dog's specific needs before starting.

Shop CBD oil for dogs →

If you have questions about which formula is right for your dog, you can reach our team at (310) 817-5731.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is full spectrum CBD safe for dogs?

In small, properly dosed amounts from a lab-tested product, most dogs tolerate the trace THC in full spectrum CBD without issue. Still, because dogs are more THC-sensitive than people, many owners and vets lean toward broad spectrum or THC-free products as the more cautious default.

2. Will full spectrum CBD make my dog high?

With the legal limit of 0.3% THC and the right dose, full spectrum CBD shouldn’t make your dog high. The risk goes up if the product is mislabeled, if you give too much, or if your dog gets into a stronger THC product.

3. Does broad spectrum CBD still work as well as full spectrum?

Broad spectrum keeps most of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, so it still offers many of the same benefits. Some research suggests full spectrum might work a bit better because of the THC, but the difference is usually small.

4. What’s the difference between broad spectrum and CBD isolate?

Isolate has only CBD and no other cannabinoids or terpenes. Broad spectrum keeps the other plant compounds but leaves out THC, so it’s often seen as a middle ground between full spectrum and isolate.

5. Can CBD show up as THC on a drug test for dogs?

This usually isn’t a big worry for pets, but if a full spectrum product has any THC, small amounts can show up in your dog’s system. Broad spectrum and THC-free products avoid this.

6. What should I do if my dog shows signs of THC exposure?

Call your vet or an animal poison control line right away if you think your dog was exposed to marijuana or a THC product, not just a hemp supplement. Signs like wobbliness, dribbling urine, or extreme tiredness need quick attention.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any CBD product to your dog’s routine, especially if your dog has an existing health condition or is on other medication.

Approved by:

Dr. Ivana Vukasinovic

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade

Ivana Vukasinovic grew up in Serbia and attended the University of Belgrade where she received a degree in Veterinary medicine in 2012 and later completed surgical residency working mostly with livestock. Her first year of practice was split between busy small animal practice and emergency clinic, and after two more years of treating many different species of animals, she opened her own veterinary pharmacy where an interest in canine and feline nutrition emerged with an accent on fighting animal obesity. In her free time, she acts as a foster parent for stray animals before their adoption, likes to read SF books and making salted caramel cookies.

Thanks for stopping by!
P.S. We Love You!

Sincerely,
The Innovet Team

Please do not ask for emergency or specific medical questions about your pets in the comments. Innovet Pet Products is unable to provide you with specific medical advice or counseling. A detailed physical exam, patient history, and an established veterinarian are required to provide specific medical advice. If you are worried that your pet requires emergency attention or if you have specific medical questions related to your pet’s current or chronic health conditions, please contact or visit your local/preferred veterinarian, an animal-specific poison control hotline, or your local emergency veterinary care center.

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