In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has gained popularity for its potential health benefits in humans. And for good reason. Experts believe that this naturally occurring compound, found in cannabis plants, has properties that make it a promising option for future health and wellness therapies.
But what about Man’s Best Friend? Can CBD benefit dogs as well?
As pet owners, we all want to ensure that our dogs are healthy and happy. And as further research uncovers more about the potential benefits of CBD, it's natural to wonder if it could be a viable option for our four-legged companions.
Fortunately, while conclusive answers are yet to be reported, there is growing anecdotal evidence to suggest that CBD possibly provides health benefits for dogs.
Some pet owners have claimed to see positive results in using CBD oil to manage mental and physical discomfort in their canine companions. Again, research on CBD’s effect on dogs is still limited, but there are ongoing clinical trials to further explore its potential uses in veterinary medicine.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about CBD for dogs, including its potential benefits, possible side effects, and how to choose a safe and effective CBD product for your furry friend.
If you're curious about whether CBD could be a viable health alternative for your pet, then read more below.
How Can CBD Affect Your Dog?
Dogs and other mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that, in theory, can be positively affected by CBD. The ECS is responsible for regulating various bodily functions such as mood, appetite, pain, and immune response. CBD is believed to interact with the ECS and possibly assist with maintaining internal balance and overall health.
A survey conducted within the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) reports that most veterinarians support CBD’s potential to possibly assist with mental discomfort symptoms in dogs. However, all of them also agree that more studies need to be done to ensure conclusive efficacy and safety.
In the same survey, veterinarians believe that CBD’s calming effects can possibly assist in situations where dogs may experience mental discomfort, such as during thunderstorms or fireworks.
CBD has also been found to possibly assist with physical discomfort in dogs. Dogs that suffer from physical issues may potentially find relief through the use of CBD when administered twice a day at appropriate doses.
Can CBD be a natural alternative for dogs who deal with mental and physical discomforts? As always, it's important to consult with a veterinarian before starting your dog on any new treatments. This is especially true if your pets are already on certain medications that may react negatively to CBD.
How to Administer CBD Oil for Dogs
While CBD oil is considered safe for dogs at appropriate doses, getting them to take it can sometimes be a challenge. Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or may simply not be comfortable when being forced to take anything in general.
Picture this: You've just come back from the vet, and your dog has been prescribed CBD oil to help with their physical discomfort. However, your dog seems uninterested in the oil, and you're not sure how to get them to take it. If you are struggling with giving CBD oil to your furry friend, don't worry.
Here are a few suggestions on how to make giving CBD oil to your pet easier:
- Mix It With A Treat: One of the easiest ways to give your dog CBD oil is to mix it with their favorite treats, such as peanut butter, cheese, or even fruit. The tastier the treat, the easier they will accept it.
- Add CBD Oil Into Foods: Another option is to mix CBD oil directly into your dog's food. Most dog foods are infused with flavors that can make CBD a lot more tolerable. You can add it to their wet or dry food, and they won't even notice it's there.
- Place CBD Oil Directly In Their Mouths: If your dog is comfortable with you placing the dropper directly in their mouth, you can administer the oil this way. However, be careful not to squeeze their mouth too tight.
Remember that in order for your dog to embrace CBD, you have to make the entire experience as comfortable (and even enjoyable) as possible. By mixing it in with their favorite treat or food or by placing it directly in their mouth, you can ensure that they receive the full benefits of CBD oil without any added stress.
CBD Products For Dogs
Now, you may be thinking, “Can I give my dog human CBD oil?”
Giving human CBD oil to your pet may be considered “safe”, but it’s always a better and safer option to give them CBD products specifically formulated for them. This is because more targeted products will have added ingredients and flavors designed to entice your dog and will be free from chemicals that are toxic to them in general.
Two of our top recommendations for dog-friendly CBD products are:
Zatural's Broad-Spectrum CBD Soft Chews are great CBD dog treats for those who don't like CBD oil's taste. These veterinarian-formulated soft chews come with mouth-watering bacon and chicken flavors and contain 2mg of CBD per chew — perfect for dogs who are new to CBD.
Since they are also made with Broad-Spectrum CBD, each bite contains all the beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant without the THC. High doses of CBD can be dangerous for your pet. These chews offer a safe amount of CBD-infused deliciousness that will make you feel comfortable giving to your dog.
2. Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil for Dogs: Our Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil for Dogs is another great option for pet owners who want to give their dogs the benefits of CBD oil. This oil is easy to administer and contains 375mg to 1,800mg of CBD per bottle, depending on your canine’s needs.
This oil is perfect for four-legged companions who need help with mental and physical discomforts, as well as other issues. Even better? Our Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil is not just for dogs. Perfect for cats and horses, too.
Side Effects of CBD Oil For Dogs
Of course, any health alternative has different effects for everyone, including our furry friends. And while both animal and human studies have not found any fatal CBD side effects when administered in the right doses, it still pays to be careful.
At too high concentrations, CBD oil can give dogs dry mouth, lowered blood pressure, and even drowsiness. In severe cases, too much CBD can trigger nausea and vomiting. This is why speaking with your veterinarian first before giving your dog CBD should always be the standard, especially when they are already taking medications.
For example, one study shows that phenobarbital CBD interaction in dogs can present some positive effects. However, these results have not been replicated enough by other independent studies to get a conclusive answer with regard to pet safety.
Can I give my dog CBD oil and phenobarbital? Your veterinarian can help you determine whether your dog can or cannot safely take CBD alongside their other medications. Dogs treated with appropriate dosages and monitored will help curb any potential side effects.
Is It Legal For Pets To Take CBD Oil?
Yes, it's perfectly legal for pets to take CBD oil, but with a few important considerations. Many pet owners have turned to CBD oil as a natural remedy for various ailments. Their furry companions may experience extreme worry, discomfort, and restlessness.
However, it's crucial to ensure that CBD oil is specifically formulated for pets and does not contain any THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis that is harmful to animals. Fortunately, there are numerous reputable companies that offer CBD products designed specifically for pets, ensuring their safety and well-being.
When exploring the legality of CBD oil for pets, it's essential to understand that regulations can vary depending on your location. In many places, CBD products derived from hemp with zero levels of THC are legal for both human and animal consumption.
However, it is recommended to research and follow the local laws and regulations regarding CBD use in pets to avoid any law-breaking. Additionally, choosing high-quality CBD oil from reputable manufacturers can provide peace of mind regarding its legality and safety for your beloved pet.
By staying informed and consulting with professionals, pet owners can confidently incorporate CBD oil into their furry friend's wellness routine, potentially offering relief from various health issues in a natural and holistic manner.
Key Takeaways
CBD oil is a promising natural health alternative that pet owners can consider when treating their furry friend's health needs.
Thanks to CBD oil’s potential benefits for dogs, experts in veterinary medicine are starting to push for more studies. Further studies should provide insight into the full effects that CBD can offer. As science improves, so should new CBD-based treatments for various health conditions in the future.
CBD oil can be a safe and effective way to improve a dog's health and well-being. It is important for pet owners to choose high-quality, third-party-tested, organic CBD products for their furry friends. This will ensure that their pets receive the best care and stay healthy and happy. Veterinarians can provide guidance on using CBD oil for pets.
Canine CBD Oil Products
For educational purposes only.
*FDA DISCLAIMER -These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.