Full spectrum and broad spectrum are two ways hemp extract gets made, and the difference is what stays in the bottle. Full spectrum hemp extract keeps the whole plant intact: CBD, CBDa, CBG, CBN, terpenes, flavonoids, and trace THC at 0.3% or less. That full profile is what drives the entourage effect, where the compounds work together.
Broad spectrum strips out the THC through extra processing, and that processing often removes other beneficial compounds along the way. CBD isolate goes further and removes everything except CBD. This guide breaks down each type, the compounds involved, and how to choose for your dog.
What Is the Difference Between Broad Spectrum and Full Spectrum CBD?
The difference comes down to what stays in the extract. Full spectrum hemp extract keeps every compound in the plant, including trace THC at 0.3% or less. Broad spectrum removes the THC, and that extra processing usually strips out other beneficial compounds with it. CBD isolate removes everything except CBD, leaving pure cannabidiol and nothing else.
Here is how the three types compare at a glance:
| Full Spectrum | Broad Spectrum | CBD Isolate | |
| CBD | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Minor cannabinoids (CBDa, CBG, CBN, CBC) | Yes | Some, often fewer | No |
| Terpenes and flavonoids | Yes | Few to none | No |
| THC (0.3% or less) | Yes | No | No |
| Entourage effect | Strongest | Partial | None |
| Processing level | Least Processed (subcritical CO2) | More Processed (adds ethanol to remove THC, terpenes) | Most Processed (includes chemical solvents: Butane, Hexane, Pentane) |
Full spectrum hemp extract is associated with the entourage effect, which occurs as a result of compounds working together. In order to fully understand the difference between full and broad spectrum products, you need to know the main compounds found in the cannabis plant. The main difference between full spectrum and broad spectrum CBD oil involves the compounds in each, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are compounds that interact with cannabinoid receptors throughout your dog’s body. There have been over 120 cannabinoids discovered in the cannabis plant, with the majority of the plant containing CBD and THC. These two cannabinoids have the most research behind them. However, other beneficial compounds have been found, including CBN (cannabinol), CBDa (cannabidiolic acid), CBC (cannabichromene), CBG (cannabigerol), THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), and CBDv (cannabidivarin).
One cannabinoid worth knowing is CBDa, the raw and unheated form of CBD that exists naturally in the living hemp plant. Most brands heat their extract during processing, which converts CBDa into CBD. Earth Buddy preserves CBDa in specific products because it interacts with the body through different pathways and is often better tolerated, especially in sensitive pets.
How Cannabinoids Work With Your Dog's Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex cell-signaling system that plays a crucial role in maintaining physiological homeostasis. The ECS is composed of endocannabinoids (natural compounds produced by your dog's body), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. Cannabinoids from cannabis, such as THC and CBD, interact with this system by binding to or influencing CB1 or CB2 receptors.
Single-origin organic hemp, subcritical CO2 extraction, and third-party tested for a true full spectrum profile
Earth Buddy's Full Spectrum Hemp Extract for Dogs
What Are Terpenes?
Terpenes are the compounds that give the cannabis plant their unique aroma. They are also responsible for the colors and flavors found within the plant. They're also present in other aromatic plants like citrus fruits and pine needles. Although you notice the aroma and flavor, the most important aspect of terpenes for the plant is their ability to promote their immune defense system. They're like a natural insecticide, preventing predators from consuming the plant.
Terpenes also play an important role in the entourage effect. Hemp extract is more effective when the whole plant is used rather than only portions of it. Full spectrum extracts contain the most terpenes, with broad spectrum extracts coming in second and isolate CBD coming in last. This is another way full spectrum vs broad CBD differ.
What Are Flavonoids?
Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant chemicals that contribute to the vivid colors of many fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They are also present in cannabis and account for about 10% of its known compounds. Beyond their sensory contributions, flavonoids are also being studied for their potential therapeutic properties.
Flavonoids aid in the removal of free radicals by serving as an antioxidant. Flavonoids are also responsible for contributing to the color of the plant. They’re similar to terpenes in some ways, and like terpenes, they aid in the occurrence of the entourage effect.
There are about 20 flavonoids in cannabis specifically, such as cannaflavin A and cannflavin B, which have been found to be beneficial. However, you may not see many of these in broad spectrum products since they have been heavily processed.
What Is the Entourage Effect?
The entourage effect is a proposed mechanism by which the compounds present in cannabis provide beneficial effects to your dog. It suggests that these compounds, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes, work together synergistically to enhance the benefits and mitigate potential adverse effects of the plant.
While the concept of the entourage effect is widely accepted in the cannabis industry, it is worth noting that more rigorous scientific research is needed to fully understand these complex interactions and their benefits. Many scientists believe that we have only scratched the surface of the benefits of this powerful plant. There continues to be additional research into the entourage effect and how it can help not only dogs, but humans and other mammals as well.
Broad Spectrum CBD and CBD Isolate for Pets, Explained
Refined broad-spectrum CBD is a type of CBD extract that has undergone additional processing to remove any remaining THC and other unwanted compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
What Is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Broad spectrum CBD extract is sometimes referred to as THC-free broad-spectrum CBD or broad-spectrum CBD distillate. Broad spectrum CBD was predominantly created for people concerned with being drug tested for THC. Now, you can find broad spectrum CBD nearly everywhere.
The refining process used to create refined broad-spectrum CBD typically involves a series of filtration and distillation steps to remove any remaining THC and other "unwanted" compounds. Broad spectrum uses more processes with chemical solvents, like ethanol, to remove beneficial compounds. The resulting extract is then tested to ensure that it contains no THC.
What Is CBD Isolate?
CBD isolate is pure CBD (cannabidiol) that has been extracted from the hemp plant and isolated from all other compounds, including other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Hence, the name isolate CBD. This means that CBD isolate contains only CBD in its purest form, with other compounds being found in trace amounts or none at all.
What Is Full Spectrum CBD Oil for Dogs?
Full spectrum CBD oil is gaining popularity in pet care, especially for dogs, due to its potential therapeutic benefits. It's important to note that the THC content in full spectrum CBD derived from hemp plants should be less than 0.3%, a level generally considered safe for animals. While studies on the use of full spectrum hemp extract in dogs are limited, anecdotal evidence and preliminary research suggest that it may provide a variety of health benefits.
A quick note on labels, since they cause a lot of confusion. Hemp seed oil and full spectrum CBD are not the same thing. Hemp seed oil is pressed from the seeds and is used mainly as a nutritional oil with little to no cannabinoid content. Full spectrum hemp extract is made from the flower and leaves of the plant, where the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are concentrated. When you are shopping for a CBD product for your dog, read the label and the lab report to see which one you are actually getting.
Potential Benefits of Full Spectrum CBD
- May help discomfort associated with normal daily exercise and activity
- Helps maintain contentment during separation, travel, motion sickness and tension caused by changes in your pet’s daily routine
- Helps achieve a soft, silky, shiny and healthy coat
- May help with occasional or seasonal allergies
- Helps keep dogs in peak condition
- Helps maintain the general health of all ages and breeds
- Supports the physical and mental well-being of an animal
This is just the beginning. There are a slew of other health benefits associated with full spectrum hemp extract. The benefits come from all the compounds in the cannabis plant working together. Earth Buddy provides pet parents with full spectrum hemp extracts that contains as many compounds from cannabis as possible.
A report from the World Health Organization states that CBD, a primary component of full spectrum hemp extract, is generally well-tolerated and has a good safety profile. Still, just like any new supplement introduced into your dog's routine, it's important to start low and go slow. The lowest effective dose should be utilized for your dog.
Is the THC in Full Spectrum CBD Safe for Dogs?
Some pet parents choose broad spectrum CBD products due to their fear of THC. There’s a misconception that THC is bad for dogs, even in small amounts. It’s important to note that there is only 0.3% THC in full spectrum hemp extract products. This is not a high enough dose to greatly affect your dog, but it is sufficient to stimulate the entourage effect for therapeutic benefits. There is research showing THC is safe, even at high doses.
One such study involved rats, dogs, and chimpanzees. In this study, these animals were provided up to 9,000 mg in a single dose. That's an outrageous amount of THC. So much that the scientists had to provide it in concentrated IV injections. But, even at this dosage, the animals were safe. This shows that the 0.3% THC found in full spectrum hemp extract is generally safe for your pet.
Why CBD Quality and Third-Party Testing Matter
The CBD industry has experienced rapid growth over the past several years, but it remains largely unregulated. This means that the quality, purity, and potency of CBD products can vary significantly between different brands and products. Some products may not contain the amount of CBD claimed on the label, and others may contain contaminants such as heavy metals or pesticides even if they claim to be fully organic.
This goes for both broad spectrum CBD products and full spectrum CBD oil. This lack of regulation can make it difficult for consumers to make informed decisions about the CBD products they purchase.
How to Read a Certificate of Analysis (COA)
It also shows the importance of purchasing CBD products from reputable companies that submit their products to third-party testing. These tests can verify the concentration of CBD and other cannabinoids as well as the absence of harmful contaminants. Lab reports can show compounds even in trace amounts.
Broad Spectrum vs Full Spectrum CBD: Which Is Right for Your Dog?
For most dogs, full spectrum hemp extract is the more complete choice because it preserves the whole plant and the entourage effect. Broad spectrum was created mainly for people who want to avoid trace THC, usually because of personal drug testing, which is not a concern for pets. Isolate is the most processed option and leaves out the supporting cannabinoids and terpenes entirely.
That said, every pet is different. If your dog is new to hemp or has a sensitive system, the type matters less than the approach: start with a low amount, go slow, and watch how your dog responds before adjusting. Whichever type you choose, look for batch-specific third-party lab results so you know exactly what is in the bottle. A quality full spectrum product with a clear Certificate of Analysis gives most dogs the fullest profile to work with.
Earth Buddy's Full Spectrum Hemp Extract for Dogs and Cats
Earth Buddy offers full spectrum hemp extract using single-origin hemp. The products are never sourced through a third party. Earth Buddy uses a small-batch approach using only 4 acres of property to ensure products are high-quality and fully organic.
The hemp is grown outdoors under natural sunlight. Once it's ready to be harvested, a process known as subcritical CO2 is used to extract the compounds. Earth Buddy is a firm believer in minimally processed products. You will also find this quality of full spectrum hemp extract in Earth Buddy’s CBD Calming Chews for Dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between broad spectrum and full spectrum CBD?
Full spectrum hemp extract contains all the compounds in the hemp plant, including CBD, CBDa, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and trace THC at 0.3% or less. Broad spectrum has the THC removed through extra processing, which often strips out other beneficial compounds too. CBD isolate is pure CBD with everything else removed.
Is full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD better for dogs?
Full spectrum keeps the whole plant profile intact, which is what produces the entourage effect. Broad spectrum was created mainly for people worried about trace THC on a drug test, which is not a concern for pets. For most dogs, full spectrum hemp extract offers the most complete profile.
Does full spectrum CBD have THC?
Yes, full spectrum hemp extract contains trace THC at 0.3% or less, which is the federal legal standard for hemp. This amount is non-intoxicating and contributes to the entourage effect.
Will full spectrum CBD get my dog high?
No. The trace THC in full spectrum hemp extract (0.3% or less) is not enough to cause intoxication. Hemp produces high CBD with very little THC, so your dog will not feel "high."
What is the entourage effect?
The entourage effect is the idea that the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in the hemp plant work together and support each other rather than acting alone. Full spectrum extracts preserve the most compounds, broad spectrum fewer, and isolate none.
What is the difference between CBDa and CBD?
CBDa is the raw, unheated form of CBD found naturally in the living hemp plant. Most brands heat their extract, which converts CBDa into CBD. CBDa interacts with the body through different pathways and is often better tolerated, which is why Earth Buddy preserves it in products like Mobility Hemp Extract and Balance Hemp Extract.
Is CBD isolate as effective as full spectrum?
Isolate is the most processed and least complete form, with no terpenes or supporting cannabinoids, so there is no entourage effect. It is the cheapest to produce and typically requires higher doses.
How do I know what is actually in a CBD product for my dog?
Look for batch-specific third-party lab results, called a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Every Earth Buddy product has a QR code that links to the lab report for that batch, showing the exact cannabinoid and terpene content plus testing for pesticides, heavy metals, mold, and solvents.
Can I give full spectrum CBD to my cat?
Yes. Cats have the same endocannabinoid system as dogs and metabolize CBD a little differently, so dosing may vary. Start low and go slow, and choose a product sized for cats and small pets.
For further reading, we recommend:
- Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads (Advances in Pharmacology, 2017)
- Taming THC: Potential Cannabis Synergy and Phytocannabinoid-Terpenoid Entourage Effects (British Journal of Pharmacology, 2011)
- Medicinal Properties of Terpenes Found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus (European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2018)
- The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No "Strain," No Gain (Frontiers in Plant Science, 2019)
- The United Chemicals of Cannabis: Beneficial Effects of Cannabis Phytochemicals on the Brain and Cognition (IntechOpen, 2018)
- The Molecular Mechanisms That Underpin the Biological Benefits of Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extract in Neuropathic (2020)
- The Direct Actions of Cannabidiol and 2-Arachidonoyl Glycerol at GABAA Receptors (Pharmacological Research, 2017)
- Comparison of Acute Oral Toxicity of Cannabinoids in Rats, Dogs and Monkeys (Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 1973)
- WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence: Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report (World Health Organization, 2018)
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