FAQs | CBD Oil for Dogs

We all know you want nothing but the best (read more) for your four-legged friend. Because of the steady advancement of pet care, it should come as no surprise that many supplements are now being used as excellent boosters or treatments for our canine companions. Hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the pet products that is becoming increasingly popular. For humans, a plethora of products is now available on the market. At the same time, many cannabidiol-infused products suitable for pets are also coming to light in the wellness industry.

Whether your dog suffers from separation anxiety, arthritis, cognitive issues, and other health problems, CBD oil may be able to alleviate the discomfort, allowing your dog to live a longer and more fulfilling life. In this article, we’ll go over the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about CBD Oil for dogs and how to safely administer it to your four-legged companion.

What is CBD?

CBD, an abbreviation for cannabidiol, is a compound that is well-known for its non-psychoactive qualities as well as its medicinal uses. In cannabis or marijuana, it is the second most active component after THC. However, when it comes to medical applications, cannabidiol is derived from the hemp plant, which is a cousin of marijuana and is recognized as such by the federal government. According to the World Health Organization, CBD, when used alone, does not contribute to dependency or human abuse in animals or humans. Rather than that, it has been used as a natural remedy for a variety of common ailments for many years.

What is THC?

THC, short for tetrahydrocannabinol, is a crystalline compound that principally exists in marijuana plants. It has a highly controversial reputation as a psychoactive substance that causes its users to feel “high” and intoxicated while using it. As a result, marijuana plants are illegal in the majority of states, particularly because they contain significant amounts of this compound. Hemp, on the other hand, does not contain any THC in concentrations greater than 0.3 percent by dry weight, making cannabidiol products derived from hemp legal to sell on the market.

What are the Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs?

Our pets, like us, have an endocannabinoid system that allows cannabinoids to work similarly as it works on us. Hence, this product might benefit our four-legged friends in the same way it does for us. 

However, the benefits of cannabidiol are still up for more research, although for canines, the study is still limited. Nevertheless, a large body of evidence (approximately 23,000 published papers) examines CBD’s effects on laboratory animals and humans. In fact, they come with promising results for many ailments—all of which have at least one canine study.

On the flip side, the majority of evidence is anecdotal or unscientific. According to anecdotal evidence from dog owners, this product appears to be effective (link) in treating various health issues, including: 

Relieves Pain and Inflammation

Many factors make CBD popular among pet owners, two of which are its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. To be more specific, studies have shown that cannabidiol can aid in the relief of arthritis aches and neuropathic pain in pets by affecting the ECS and other nerves that are involved in the perception of pain. 

However, do not give your dog cannabidiol-infused products if they are also taking other medications to avoid drug interactions between the two. 

Helps with Separation Anxiety and Other Mental Health Issues

When it comes to dogs, anxiety is relatively prevalent. Many factors contribute to why most dogs suffer from anxiety, including travels, separation, abuse, loud noise, and a lot more. Because of this, you may notice your dog becoming more aggressive, which in most cases progresses into destructive behavior. Cannabidiol may be able to help your dogs feel more relaxed due to its anti-anxiety properties and soothing effects. 

Stimulates Appetite

Most of the time, if our dogs lose their appetite, it could indicate either a medical condition or something not serious at all. 

If your dog is feeling ill, CBD can help alleviate nausea, thanks to its anti-nausea effects. Simultaneously, it also relaxes the central nervous system, making it easier for them to eat, especially if they have a sensitive digestive tract. 

Just a disclaimer, though. There is no way CBD can replace veterinary consultation or care unless your veterinarian told you so. Always seek advice and do your research first. 

What Dosage Can I Give My Dog?

As a general rule, always begin with small amounts. The results may vary from dog to dog. However, take note that the Food and Drug Administration has not yet approved CBD or has not issued a dosing chart for CBD oil for dogs for proper dosage. So for the first few hours after administering CBD oil, make sure to closely monitor your dog’s response to the product. You should see the effects the product has and adjust the dose accordingly to maximize the benefits of cannabidiol.

Can I Use “Human” CBD Oil for My Pet?

Technically, yes. But is it recommended? No. You shouldn’t let your dog consume a cannabidiol product made for humans. CBD for humans can be toxic for dogs since it might contain ingredients that are not suitable for dogs or has a higher THC content.  Although there is also enough proof to say that CBD oil has tons of benefits.

Also, keep in mind that CBD comes in a wide variety of forms. It can be an isolate, full-spectrum, or broad-spectrum. The last two may contain terpenes and other cannabinoids, such as THC, so they should be used with extreme caution. However, if you want to be sure, opt for an isolated CBD oil (made especially for pets).