Everything you need to know about CBD for dogs

Recently, there have been lots of discussions regarding the health benefits of CBD oil. These discussions have not just been limited to its benefits to humans but also pets in general and dogs in particular.

If you have come across these discussions but can’t say you understand everything or you’ve not taken the time to assimilate the information, this is another opportunity to do so. We will start from the very top; looking at what CBD is and some essential facts you ought to be aware of as it relates to your dog.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is an extract of the cannabis plant. It is one of several (over a hundred) cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, though it constitutes a very significant portion of extracts from the plant. You can read a lot more about it here.

CBD has been shown to possess numerous health benefits. The rage for this product is so high that medical researchers are forced to spend a lot of time researching it. Some of the facts we will be looking at in this article are the results of that research.

Now let’s look at some essential facts you need to be aware of about using CBD for dogs.

We’ll break it down into health benefits, application methods, and possible side effects.

Health benefits of CBD for dogs

Fights or prevents cancer

CBD can help fight or prevent cancer by improving the immune system’s ability to kill cancer cells and inhibiting the energy production ability of the cancer cells. It is said to contain properties that are anti-tumor in nature.

Helps with pain management

CBD is perhaps best known for providing relief from all kinds of pain.

Boosts appetite

Your dog may suffer from a loss of appetite for several different reasons. This treatment can help restore its appetite.

Improves cardiovascular health

Your dog can enjoy better cardiovascular health with CBD because it can dilate the arteries. It also protects the blood vessels from getting damaged, reduces blood pressure and mitigates the effect of an irregular heartbeat as well as blood vessels that are damaged.

Combats autoimmune diseases

CBD is a powerful antioxidant, even more so than vitamins C and E. It suppresses both the production and release of inflammatory cytokines which are known to cause among other things autoimmunity. It also prevents Th17 dominance, a situation that usually causes autoimmune diseases.

Learn more about the health benefits of CBD for dogs here.

Giving dogs CBD

There are different ways through which your dog can receive CBD. The most popular options include:

Oil

The oil can be administered directly using tinctures and a dropper bottle. Use this method when immediate relief is needed. Drop it under your dog’s tongue, and it will almost instantly be absorbed into the bloodstream, offering the much-needed relief in a matter of seconds.

Topical application

CBD rich creams and salves can help dogs suffering from skin issues or joint and muscle aches. Your dog also will love the rub down as you apply the ointment or cream.

Treats

This is probably the option your dog will love the best. A lot of companies now offer different types, sizes, flavors and dosages of treats for your dog. All you need to do is choose a dosage, type, and flavor. While your dog enjoys munching on the treats, it also will receive health benefits.

Possible side effects of CBD for dogs

For the concerned dog owner, no severe side effects have been recorded. The two common side-effects you may notice are:

Increased thirst

You may notice that your dog may become thirstier. This may be as a result of a decrease in the production of saliva. To guard against dehydration, ensure your dog has constant access to drinking water once you administer the treatment.

Drowsiness

Another side-effect you may notice is drowsiness. This may however not constitute a side effect especially when a dog is being treated for anxiety. The calming effect of the drug can make it happily drowsy which will be a far better state than its previous state of agitation.

Conclusion

It’s essential to understand 10 things you should know about how CBD affects your dog. Be sure to consider the health conditions CBD addresses, the best methods to administer CBD for dogs, and the possible side effects.

Before administering this treatment, consult your dog’s vet for medical advice. This is just precautionary and also should provide advice on how best to deliver the treatment.