ABOUT CBD FOR DOGS

Everything You Need to Know

About CBD for Dogs

As CBD has grown increasingly popular and people enjoy the many benefits of adding it to their own wellness routine, they are naturally wondering if CBD can help their dog as well. If you’re a pet owner, you might be asking: “What is CBD for dogs?”

To answer that question, it might help to first understand what CBD is, what it does, and the different types of CBD available.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a chemical compound naturally found in cannabis plants. Over the past few years, CBD has quickly become a popular additive to several products, including CBD oil, which is non-psychoactive and useful for a range of applications because of its potential benefits with overall wellness.

CBD works with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), and only together can CBD have any effect. The ECS is a neurological network found in all mammals – even in dogs too. It’s a bodily system made up of two types of cannabinoid receptors:

CANNABINOID RECEPTOR 1 (CB1)attaches to the central nervous system, which controls thoughts, speech, awareness, movements, sensations, and memory.
CANNABINOID RECEPTOR 2 (CB2)Binds to the peripheral nervous system, connecting to limbs, skin, and various organs.

The ECS helps maintain the balance of mental and physical capabilities in response to abnormal changes inside and outside the body that disrupt optimum efficiency; this stability refers to homeostasis.

The CBD found in oil tinctures and other CBD-based products come from Cannabis sativa – but not any strain of Cannabis sativa is acceptable. The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 Farm Bill, redefined marijuana to exclude hemp, which removed hemp plants and CBD as controlled substances.

TNew federal regulations classify hemp as any part of Cannabis sativa that contains less than 0.3 percent Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the psychoactive chemical in cannabis that causes a “high” and euphoria. And it’s hemp that consumer CBD is typically extracted through various ways.

Once extracted, CBD becomes infused into a carrier oil for easier consumption by humans and dogs. There are three types of CBD oil depending on the inclusion of other compounds:

CBD ISOLATE The purest form of CBD available; it contains only CBD as any other cannabinoids and terpenes are further separated after the initial extraction.
FULL-SPECTRUM CBD Includes a full range of cannabinoids and terpenes along with the CBD, including trace amounts of THC; though the THC isn’t enough to cause any psychoactive effects, prolonged use of full-spectrum CBD could trigger a positive drug test.
BROAD-SPECTRUM CBD The perfect hybrid between the range of isolates and full-spectrum; broad-spectrum also contains an array of cannabinoids and terpenes, but it excludes any detectable THC molecules from its mixture.

What Are the

Benefits of CBD for Dogs?

CBD is as useful to dogs as it is for humans; many people use CBD for various reasons, including nighttime relaxation, exercise recovery, and to maintain a sense of calm against common stressors. Dogs can experience several human-like experiences such as separation issues, restlessness, and stiffness in muscles and joints.

Although any definitive effects of CBD oil for dogs are grossly under-researched, anecdotal reports and positive feedback from happy pet owners suggest that the benefits of CBD oil for dogs can help manage many common concerns.

What Are

Separation Issues In Dogs?

Dogs may become overly attached to their owners and become visibly distressed when that person is away; they may require consistent physical contact and attention – leading them not to do well when alone.

Though the cause of separation issues in dogs isn’t always known, it is a common condition amongst rescue and shelter dogs and in particular breeds. Some obvious signs may include

Destructive behavior
Scratching or digging at windows and doors
Persistent whining, crying, howling, or barking
Becoming distressed as the owner prepares to leave

And while there could be many more indications of stress with an animal, it’s best to discuss with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis. There are several ways to help a dog with stress issues, including physical and mental stimulation, a safe spot or area in the home, or adjustment training.

Another option is CBD products for dogs, which helps promote a sense of calm and well-being; it’s becoming a popular choice among pet owners who notice positive results with their furry companions with daily use, including any everyday stress or separation issues.

Are Sleep Aids Useful for Dogs?

Even dogs have difficulty sleeping or relaxing at times, and one option that may help them wind down a bit easier is melatonin for dogs. Melatonin is natural and safe to use – making it an ideal choice for pet owners concerned about what they give their dog.

Combining melatonin and CBD can provide dogs with calming effects and wellness-boosting benefits in one convenient option. Many CBD pet products include CBD and melatonin, and other soothing ingredients that promote healthy sleep.

Other calming chews for dogs may not contain melatonin but have other essential ingredients such as chamomile or L-tryptophan that can help dogs relax and possibly fall asleep easier after a long and busy day.

Is CBD Useful for

Senior Dogs?

As pets get older, it’s important to pay attention to their mobility and comfort. This is especially true if they have everyday aches and age-related discomfort issues. Using CBD oil for senior dogs may offer the support needed to boost physical activity and ease worn paws and joints.

While there isn’t much research providing conclusive evidence about the benefits of CBD oil for senior dogs, pet owners have seen for themselves how CBD can help dogs maintain their mobility based on their own experiences.

They may have noticed their dog wanting to play more or be more active when they usually have to be coaxed into activities. With a healthier lifestyle, they may develop a healthier appetite and rest more comfortably. The effects of using CBD with senior dogs may vary, but their increased level of activity is typically a sign of newly found wellness.

Is CBD

Safe for Dogs?

In a 2017 report, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that CBD is seemingly well-tolerated by animals, including dogs. If choosing to use CBD, it’s important to make sure that CBD oil for pets is adequately sourced, manufactured, and third-party tested before using it.

And even though veterinary scientific research is still in the preliminary stages, many veterinarians are already suggesting CBD oil for dogs. Several pet owners are also providing anecdotal evidence on social media, discussion forums, and other online channels about the benefits of CBD oil for dogs – many with no reports of significant side effects or adverse concerns.

Are There Any

Side Effects from CBD for Dogs?

Because studies regarding CBD use for dogs are scarce, there isn’t much research exploring any adverse effects. However, some minor side effects have been observed with higher doses of CBD given to dogs:

DRY MOUTH:CBD oil for dogs often decreases saliva production, pay attention to signs of increased thirst.
DROWSINESS:CBD pet products are useful for their calming effects, but it may cause drowsiness if too much is used at one time.

How Does CBD Affect Dogs?

All mammals have an endocannabinoid system, including humans and dogs, and CBD affects both body systems in similar ways – meaning that CBD helps provide wellness support for people and dogs.

CBD can offer unique benefits, including stress management, promoting calmness, and complementing a regular wellness routine for pets. Results may vary because each dog is different, so it’s best to start with suggested servings and adjust as needed.

CBD is still relatively new to the pet market, and research about CBD affecting dogs is limited. But several pet owners have given their dogs CBD for everyday support and wellness and have commented on the positive results they’ve seen with their dog’s overall health and behavior, including stress, separation issues, and noise aversion.

How Do I

Give CBD to My Dog?

There are several CBD options for dogs, but it depends on you and your dog's preferences. Some of the best CBD for dogs products include tinctures and hard or soft chews.

CBD OIL TINCTURES

Tinctures contain CBD infused with a carrier oil and may or may not include additional flavors; it's quick and easy to administer directly from a plastic dropper, making it the most commonly used method. It can also be combined with other CBD options like chews; some people even like to create homemade chews using CBD oil. Some oils may even contain special ingredients like melatonin for a Calming CBD oil option.

CBD HARD CHEWS & CBD SOFT CHEWS

While homemade CBD chews for dogs are a fun option, pre-made CBD chews are an easy, convenient, pre-measured choice. Some are hard baked chews, while others are available as soft chews, which is perfect for dogs with small, sensitive, or aging teeth. There are even some specialized formulas that provide extra support like Hip+Joint or Calming, with supportive, pet-safe ingredients.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

As a dog owner, whether you decide to use oil tinctures, hard chews, or soft chews, you should follow the directions printed on the label of your CBD products for pets. A good CBD product will come in different strengths based on your dog’s weight for ease and effectiveness. Use it for at least 30 consecutive days before making any changes to how much CBD your dog consumes.

After getting your dog on a routine with CBD, you could try using various types and flavors of CBD for pets to discover which ones your dog likes best. You can also try a combination of convenient tinctures and chews as long as you stay within the suggested daily amount of CBD.

But before doing anything, speak with your veterinarian first about starting your dog on a daily CBD schedule.

What Should I Know When

Buying CBD for Dogs?

Some of the best CBD oil for dogs is already available at several retail stores, pet shops, and online sites. However, before you introduce CBD to your dog’s daily routine and make a purchase, here’s what pet owners should pay attention to when shopping for CBD:

Check if the product is veterinarian-formulated for pet safety
Make sure the product contains premium, hemp-derived CBD
Check if the product is THC-free* and tested in a third-party laboratory
Verify that the serving instructions and suggestions are clear on the label
Look to see if the product is available in strengths based on your pet’s weight
Be sure you can find out where and how the hemp used in the product was grown
Check that all the ingredients are listed clearly on the label and don’t include any artificial components or fillers

The CBD manufacturer’s website can answer several of these concerns – many reputable CBD companies will freely provide a certificate of analysis (COA) that certifies all the ingredients and how much are used in a product.

It’s essential to do the necessary research because there are already countless CBD pet products in the market, but not all are manufactured the same. Educating yourself on what to look for will help give your dog the best CBD based on their needs.