CBD for dogs? Yes, but with care

Cannabis for dogs? It might sound a little weird, but it makes sense if we take a deeper look at this issue.

Dogs have a lot of cannabinoid receptors, more than any other pets. It opens many opportunities and risks. However, we want to mention that feeding your dog substances like cannabis with THC can be dangerous. Animals can die from an overdose.

Cannabidiol or CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Unlike THC, it doesn’t have any psychoactive effect and won’t produce a high. Some studies show that CBD can help people in treating anxiety, pain, arthritis, nausea, etc. If you are interested in CBD and are looking for CBD products near me, visit our website.

CBD for pets is considered a natural way to treat such conditions in dogs. You should understand that if you can buy such products, they are 100% safe for pets. These days, no CBD products are approved by the FDA for use as a drug or food. However, you will soon know all the details about CBD for pets, including the possible benefits and risks.

How can CBD help dogs?

CBD products might be helpful for dogs and can relieve some symptoms. However, we don’t have enough researches to make conclusions. Human research shows that CBD might effectively treat epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. However, there aren’t many reliable studies about the effects of CBD products on dogs.

A study from 2018 states that CBD provides anti-inflammatory effects and pain relief in dogs with osteoarthritis symptoms. Scientists gave pets 2 mg per kg of body weight. 80% of dogs showed improvement in their conditions. However, this study was created under a CBD producer, and the results might be doubtful.

Another statement is that CBD can reduce the anxiety behavior of dogs.

There was a small study of 24 dogs in which researchers looked at the effect of CBD behavior in shelter dogs. They received a placebo or CBD oil for 45 days.

The dogs who received CBD were less aggressive, but the difference wasn’t very dramatical. Researchers believe that CBD can help such dogs. These studies give a chance to CBD products for pets, but we need more studies to confirm this statement.

How do dogs react to CBD?

There are two main cannabinoid receptor types in dogs’ bodies — CB1 and CB2. These receptors help regulate and balance a dog’s immune system, influencing inflammation, allergies, and pain.

There are also three main components of the endocannabinoid system: receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids. The endocannabinoids are produced on demand and bind to the receptors when the pet is stressed or injured. CBD works similarly to endocannabinoids by binding the receptors.

Dogs have the highest density of CB1 receptors compared to all living species. However, every pet is different, and not all dogs will have the same results from using CBD products. Talk to your veterinarian before buying a specific product.

Can CBD get my pet high?

CBD doesn’t have any psychoactive effects. Unlike THC, CBD cannot get your dog high.

CBD can affect brain activity and lead to a reduction of stress and anxiety for dogs. Be careful with the dosage and never experiment with products not developed for dogs.

Side effects

CBD is much safer for pets than THC, but there are still unpleasant side effects connected with CBD. The most common could be:

• Increased liver enzymes
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

Sometimes, there could also be such effects as sleepiness and appetite changes. However, if there is any THC in the product, the pet will face the risk of THC toxicity. The symptoms might include vomiting, urinary incontinence, slow heartbeat, inactivity, loss of muscle control, excessive drooling, and sensitivity to stimuli. You should take your pet to the veterinarian if your dog suffers from significant side effects after ingesting CBD products.

How to give CBD to dogs, and how much?

CBD for pets can take various forms like oils, creams, and gel capsules. There isn’t one opinion on which form is more efficient. If we are talking about doses, you remember that every dog might respond differently. That’s why it is crucial to start with a small dose to see the results.

Most CBD products will offer dosing suggestions, but remember that the manufacturer creates them. CBD for pets isn’t regulated, and nobody knows for sure what dose is safe for your pet.

You can mix CBD oil into your dog’s food or put drops straight into the dog’s mouth. Now, you can find CBD products in the USA adopted for animals.

Final words on cannabis for dogs

While cannabis for dogs can be dangerous due to its THC content, CBD can have many potential benefits in helping dogs deal with pain, stress, anxiety, etc.

However, more research is needed.

Speak to your veterinarian before buying CBD products for your dog. If you decide to try CBD products, start with a small dose, monitor your pet’s reactions, and increase doses slowly if needed.