The subject of CBD for dogs is at the top of every pet owner's mind right now.
You may have seen CBD oil at your local pet store or vet, but do you know what it is? What are its benefits? How can it help your dog?
This blog post will answer all of these questions and more!
We'll discuss CBD oil's effects on dogs, dosage guidelines for dogs, things to look for before buying, and so much more.
Let's jump in.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is the abbreviation for cannabidiol, a chemical compound that can be found in marijuana and hemp oil plants.
It's different than THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which causes people to get “high” or psychoactive effects from using marijuana.
CBD has gained popularity over recent years as it has been used by many who are looking for alternative ways of treating their pain without getting high.
There have not yet been any conclusive studies done on the benefits of CBD oil but so far there are promising results even though they are still very new at this point.
Some other known benefits include relief from anxiety, chronic disorders such as epilepsy, nausea, headaches/migraines/cluster headaches, arthritis, depression, and more.
CBD vs THC: What’s the difference?
CBD is found in both hemp and marijuana plants. THC can be found only in marijuana plants. While these two chemicals are similar, they also have major differences that make them unique from each other.
The chemical compound CBD has many medicinal benefits without any psychoactive effects whereas THC contains psychoactive properties which result in the “high” feeling when using weed to treat pain or anxiety but there are also some risks associated with this as well!
Also, there are very little to no side effects in the case of CBD while there are some mild side effects present in the case of THC.
Types of CBD with differences
There are three main types of CBD oils available. Each contains different levels and active ingredients. So it's important to understand how they work before you buy a product for your dog:
CBD isolate powder
An isolated form of cannabinoid that is created by extracting the CBD compound from cannabis plants. It comes in an oily liquid, paste, or powder form. This type of CBD extract does not contain any other cannabinoids, terpenes (the compounds responsible for providing the flavor), or flavonoids (compounds useful for nutrient absorption). It is essentially 99% pure CBD without terpenes & other compounds.
Full-spectrum CBD Oil
Full-spectrum CBD oil is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that comes from the industrial hemp seed oil plant. Full Spectrum means the whole range of compounds found in cannabis has been extracted. Broad Spectrum means only certain parts have been isolated so you get more targeted benefits with less risk.
Full Spectrum CBD contains both THC & CBD at varying levels depending on what kind of compound has been separated out or not during the extraction process. It also includes CBG, CBN, terpenes, flavonoids, and other phytonutrients for added health benefits.
Broad-spectrum CBD Oil
Broad Spectrum CBD oil is mainly extracted from industrial hemp plants, which contains no THC. On average, the Broad spectrum has less of the other cannabinoids & terpenes compared to Full Spectrum so there are fewer health benefits and less flexibility with dosing, etc.
However, this kind of CBD does not contain any psychoactive properties or cause an adverse effect in humans that take it medically or otherwise. Making it a safer option in comparison to full-spectrum products derived from cannabis plants.
What does CBD oil do for dogs?
CBD works as an effective stress buster for dogs. It also helps to calm the dog down, reduces anxiety and tension in them by activating their brain's serotonin production indirectly.
Studies have shown that CBD for dogs can be helpful against separation anxiety as well. Not only that, but CBD is also known to help with various types of motion sickness & eliminate pain that can be caused by arthritis or joint pain.
CBD oil for dogs can also help in reducing nausea, particularly the kind that is brought on by chemotherapy.
It works to stimulate appetite and gives relief from vomiting & nausea. This effect of CBD has made it a highly recommended product all over the world to increase appetite thereby resulting in weight gain for underweight dogs.
CBD oil can also help with other conditions like Canine parvovirus, diabetes, and many more. While CBD cannot treat any of these diseases by itself, it can surely improve the overall immunity thereby making your dog stronger and healthier than before.
Another benefit that you'll enjoy is a reduced anxiety level in your dog because of the relaxing effect of CBD.
This can help you build a stronger bond with your dog or just keep it calm and relaxed when needed, for example during long rides in cars, trips to the vet's office, etc.
They can be used as a mood stabilizer, sleep enhancer, and appetite stimulant too.
However, it should not be considered as an energy booster because the primary function of this oil is to relax your pet's muscles and nerves so that they feel subdued.
One of the biggest benefits for giving CBD oil to pets is that there are absolutely no psychoactive effects since it does not contain THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). Which will get into their bloodstream without causing any sort of high or intoxication whatsoever in your pet.
THC is responsible for giving us the 'high' feeling that we experience when smoking weed or cannabis, which dogs do not feel whatsoever.
CBD oil can be used to treat a variety of canine ailments without causing any adverse side effects. This is because it has no deadly toxins and chemicals in its composition, unlike other pharmaceutical medications for pets.
This makes CBD a safe and effective treatment option even if you have been using it over a prolonged period on your dog's body with no signs of negative repercussions.
Uses of CBD oil
CBD oil is used to treat a range of conditions, both human and animal. Some of the most common reasons to use CBD oil for dogs are: CBD can be used in all stages of life, from birth through adulthood.
It's also safe for pets who have chronic illnesses or maybe undergoing surgery.
Does CBD oil have to be expensive?
CBD oil is available at a range of prices. You don't need to buy the most expensive form, but you should do some research and find out which CBD brand offers good value for money.
If your dog has chronic pain or other ailments that require ongoing treatment, it might be worth paying more for better quality CBD oil (because this will carry less risk).
Is refrigeration necessary?
Refrigeration is necessary (although not mandatory) because CBD oil can degrade if it's not stored properly. Some people prefer to buy their CBD in capsules so they don't have to worry about storage.
But you should always check the label before buying. Refrigerating your product will prolong its shelf-life and reduce the risk of degradation, which means that you'll get more value for money.
Does CBD get you high?
CBD oil is non-psychoactive and cannot get you high. This means that it doesn't cause the mind-altering effects associated with THC found in cannabis oil for dogs like getting "high" or intoxicated.
What conditions does CBD treat in dogs? What are some of the CBD benefits for dogs?
CBD is not only great for treating chronic or acute conditions, but it can also help with general wellness! CBD for dogs is:
- Anti-inflammatory (fights pain and stiffness)
- Decreases anxiety (reduces stress)
- Reduces nausea (easy digestion)
- Helps fight cancer cells
- Helps ease Neuropathic pain
- Suppresses seizures/epilepsy
- Improves moods & behavior overall
- Promotes better sleep patterns
So basically, you're giving your pup a natural supplement that boosts his/her immune system while simultaneously making him/her happier than ever before! If there was anything even more exciting than that, it would be knowing how safe CBD is.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
CBD has been deemed completely safe for dogs all over the world when used responsibly.
Some side effects are dry mouth & low blood pressure, but these will subside once the dosage is changed or if treatment stops. If your pet experiences any other adverse reactions you should consult with a medical professional immediately.
Possible side effects of CBD for dogs
The vast majority of owners have no problems at all with CBD oil or any other cannabidiol product for that matter. But there are always some exceptions to the rule. Some of the common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth & low blood pressure.
It's important to monitor your dog's reaction and see how they respond before increasing dosage to avoid potential issues.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary when giving your pet their dose, make sure to stop administration immediately and seek veterinary advice if necessary.
The most common side effect seen in dogs who receive too much CBD oil is sedation & drowsiness due to CBD calming down hyperactive pets which can be quite dangerous when not monitored properly by a veterinarian.
Some owners also report diarrhea after giving CBD products to their pets, however the reason for this is not yet clear. The side effects are usually mild and disappear after a few days of administration.
But if the problem persists make sure to consult your veterinarian before continuing use with your pet.
Another important thing to keep in mind when administering CBD products for dogs is that they can be addictive just like any other drug or medicine. Withdrawal symptoms may appear when you completely stop giving CBD oil to your dog.
This includes restlessness, increased barks, sleep difficulties and even some depression so always talk about proper dosage with an expert before starting treatment on your own accord.
Finally, some owners report stomach issues, including vomiting, after giving their pets too much CBD. However these problems should also cease over time as long as the dose was gradually increased under the supervision of a veterinary specialist.
Will CBD oil cause skin irritation in dogs?
CBD oil is considered to be non-toxic, so it shouldn't cause any major harmful side effects in your dog. However, there have been some cases of CBD causing skin irritation which can typically be remedied by changing the dosage or switching products entirely.
Dangers of THC for Dogs
Both CBD and THC are cannabinoids that react with the same receptors in our brains as well as those found throughout our bodies. However, this doesn't mean that they have the same effects, and often their properties can be quite different from one another.
For example, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis for dogs is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), but it has a very low toxicity level compared to its counterpart CBD despite their molecular similarities.
This means that dogs who ingest too much of either cannabinoid will typically experience opposite symptoms such as dysphoria or lethargy rather than increased appetite like we see when CBD oil is given at proper doses.
Interaction between CBD & other drugs and supplements
CBD’s interaction with other drugs: There has been some reported interaction when CBD was taken in combination with opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol & antipsychotics. You must talk to your vet before starting any pet on a new medication or treatment plan.
If your dog has epilepsy, it may be worth discussing cannabinoid medicine because it can help control seizures. Be sure to follow dosing guidelines carefully as all doses should be started low and increased slowly until an effective dose is found.
Too much THC could trigger seizure activity in some cases. The dosage also needs to be adjusted if combined with other medications.
CBD’s interaction with supplements: CBD oil is safe to use alongside most supplements you give your pet except for a few like melatonin, valerian, & kava. It can also reduce the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals in their food (e.g., vitamin B12).
How can I give CBD oil to my dog?
The best way to give dogs CBD oil to dogs is through tinctures due to their convenience and ease of use.
Simply put drops on your dog's food once per day or as needed and you're good to go. You should consult with your vet before starting this treatment though, because CBD can affect animals differently depending on their weight, breed, etc.
If you're looking for CBD products to give your dog, we recommend sticking with tinctures or oils that are water-soluble (rather than oil-based).
These tend to be easier on the digestive system and don't require as much processing by the liver before entering circulation. This means more of it will remain intact in the body.
How Long Does CBD Take To Work?
Once administered, a dose of CBD will take anywhere between 20 - 90 mins to take full effect. This depends on the type of CBD oil used & their absorption times.
Different absorption times for different types:
- Full Spectrum CBD - 30-90 minutes
- CBD isolate - 5-20 minutes
- Broad Spectrum CBD - 5-20 minutes
How much CBD should you give your dog?
There are tons of different CBD products for dogs on the market today and it can get overwhelming at first glance. So what's the best way to determine how much amount will benefit your pup most effectively?
The key here is trial and error. There isn't a set amount in milligrams per pound you'll need to give your pet each day, so instead focus on finding something he/she likes.
For a rough benchmark, you can consider giving 1-2 mg for every 10 pounds of body weight. So the bigger your dog is, the more the dosage will be.
Keep in mind that it's extremely important to start small when you're just starting your dog CBD oil treatment.
We always recommend consulting with your veterinarian before giving CBD oil for dogs to your pup.
Things to consider while purchasing the best CBD Oil for your dog
There are many different things to consider when buying pet CBD oil such as safety and quality control testing standards among other things.
You should always buy from a reputable and trustworthy source, so here are a few questions to always ask before purchasing an e-juice product or any CBD product for your dog:
- Is it organic? If so, is the source of the hemp plant known and reputable?
- If not all-natural, then what additives are in there that aren't healthy for pets?
- Where was it made? In-house or a mass production lab, or somewhere else where quality control isn’t as strict on ingredients used?
The bottom line - CBD oil is safe to give your pet when dosed correctly, but you need to make sure you buy from a reputable source. A good start would be with a manufacturer who has done their due diligence and testing before selling products they deem worthy enough to sell online.
Do vets recommend CBD oil for dogs?
While some veterinarians only urge caution before recommending CBD oil for dogs, there are many that do actually recommend it.
They recommend CBD as a great alternative medication to help pets cope with anxiety and pain issues without having negative side effects on liver function like so many other medications out there.
A lot of vets feel strongly about this because they have seen firsthand just how much better some pets are doing since starting CBD oil supplements.
Some of the benefits include reducing anxiety, which can help your pup cope better with separation issues and phobias. The owners don't need to worry anymore about their pet being hooked on powerful narcotics can be very detrimental in the long run.
Some veterinarians recommend giving their patients treats with CBD once a day while others prefer twice-daily dosing depending on how severe your pet's condition is.
How can I tell if CBD oil is working?
As mentioned earlier, CBD can reduce anxiety levels that cause dogs to behave badly. However, this only applies if your dog has an extreme fear or phobia of something harmless like thunderstorms or firecrackers.
A positive behavior change is thus a sign that it is working.
But behavioral change can be difficult to identify, especially when it's subtle.
If your dog is generally well-behaved most of the time, but they develop a few bad habits now and again (chewing on things they shouldn't chew on), then you may not notice any behavioral changes until you bring them in for their annual check-up with the vet.
CBD has also been known to help with other behavioral issues like aggression. But again, this is usually only the case if your dog suffers from chronic anxiety or stress-related conditions that cause them to lash out at people or other animals in their environment.
If you've tried everything else and nothing seems to work (including training), then CBD could be worth a shot since it's all-natural and non-invasive, even though there isn't much research on how effective it can be for such cases yet.
If none of these signs apply to your particular situation, then don't worry because CBD oil probably won't have any noticeable effect on your pet's daily life unless they are suffering from an illness where pain relief is necessary.
If your dog seems to be in pain, then you will most likely notice behavioral changes because they won't enjoy life as much anymore.
Once again - don't forget to do your research before trying anything new!
Most people who give their pets CBD oil are satisfied customers, but there are always exceptions so make sure you know how much to use safely according to the manufacturer's instructions before administering it yourself.
Also, keep an eye on things while waiting for your dog's reaction to the treatment so you can monitor how they are feeling and what kind of changes are taking place.
If there is still no effect after several weeks, then it would probably be best to give up on CBD oil until further research comes out in future years. Or you could try another dosage if you think the initial dose was too low.
This is by no means a miracle cure and it cannot fix anything overnight, but if your dog has been suffering for years without any relief in sight; if could be worth it to give CBD oil a shot.
How long does CBD oil last in terms of effect?
Effectiveness depends on the particular product you are using. Some manufacturers state that their products last for up to four hours, while others claim they can have an effect that lasts all day long if enough of it is absorbed by your pet’s body.
Despite the claims, a single dose of high-quality CBD oil can last anywhere between 4-8 hours in most cases, depending on the type of oil used.
- Full Spectrum CBD - Lasts 6-8 hours
- CBD isolate - Lasts up to 4 hours
- Broad Spectrum CBD - Lasts 4-6 hours
Alternatives To CBD Oil for Dogs
Many people may be interested in giving their dogs CBD oil, but they can't because of legal reasons or maybe they are just fearful of potential side effects. If you fall under this category and your pet is suffering from a condition, there are still ways you can help!
Here are some useful alternative to CBD oil for dogs:
Anxiety Chews
Anxiety Chews are made specifically to help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs caused by separation issues, travel stress, thunderstorms, or other causes of stress-related behavior problems like aggression towards people or other pets due to fearfulness or insecurity.
We recommend the K9 Calm Anxiety Chews.
These chews have been proven effective at helping dogs relax without causing drowsiness so owners can feel confident knowing their pet will still respond correctly when needed during stressful situations, while also being able to remain calm and relaxed.
Joint Support Chews
Large breed dogs are prone to hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint problems. The best way to treat these conditions is by maintaining your dog's mobility.
However, the only way to achieve this is through proper nutrition. Unfortunately, most commercial dog foods contain ingredients that can cause more harm than good for many large breed dogs.
This leads owners to purchase expensive prescription diets which they may not be able to afford or find at their local pet store.
Bully Bites Joint Support Chews are a healthy alternative that can help maintain your dog's mobility without breaking the bank or requiring a trip to the vet.
This all-natural formula contains Rimoxen, an anti-inflammatory ingredient, so you know it will never hurt your beloved pup. These treats also include Omega-3s, Vitamins & MSM amongst other ingredients for additional support of joints, connective tissue, and mobility.
Orthopedic Dog Beds
Dog beds that are too soft cause your dog to sink into the bed, which can lead to pressure points and injuries.
Dogs need a firm surface for support and comfort, but they also need a bed with enough padding to relieve pain from joints or muscular tissues.
Orthopedic dog beds solve this problem by providing a hard outer shell with plenty of cushioning inside.
Bully Bed’s orthopedic beds are designed specifically for large dogs who have problems with their side or back. This foam provides just enough give so that your pet doesn’t feel like he is sinking into his bed, but also provides enough support so that he can get up easily without feeling stiff afterward.
Conclusion
The use of CBD for dogs has been increasing in popularity amongst pet owners, and the more research is done on this compound, the more we learn about how it can be used to improve our furry friends’ health.
We hope that you have enjoyed reading through this blog post, and found some useful information along with us.
FAQs
What does CBD oil do upon ingestion?
When your dog ingests CBD (either through oils or treats), the cannabinoids in the plant take effect by binding themselves to receptors found throughout his/her body. There's even a receptor specifically dedicated to regulating sleep patterns. When these "lock" onto certain receptors, your dog's body immediately begins to utilize the compound.
Does CBD oil help a rescue dog?
Yes! CBD oil is an excellent way to help dogs who suffer from anxiety, pain, or other ailments. As long as you find a reputable company that sells high-quality products at an affordable price, CBD can do wonders for even the most troubled pooches.
What are endocannabinoid systems?
Endocannabinoids are essentially the body's nerve signaling system, which helps to promote homeostasis. These endocannabinoids bind themselves to receptors (just like phytocannabinoids in CBD oil) and help regulate things such as sleep patterns, appetite, mood & emotions among many other functions.
How does it work?
CBD works by activating these cannabinoid receptors throughout your dog's body. This is what causes a variety of different effects that can improve his/her quality of life. When activated, they'll tell cells: "Hey we're here if you need us!" From there on out, the cell will have access to all sorts of benefits, including pain relief or improved immune system function. Your pet could then get relief from seizures, arthritis, or nausea.
Can CBD oil treat seizures in a dog if consumed daily?
Yes, CBD oil can help reduce the frequency of seizures in dogs. It can even stop them entirely if taken at proper dosage levels consistently. However, you must work closely with your vet to ensure that no other possible causes or triggers for your dog's epilepsy are present and treated before administering CBD oil.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only. CBD oil needs to be taken under the strict supervision of an expert veterinarian who can recommend you on how best it can work in your pet's favor without causing any harm to its health in the long run.
