Did you know that roughly 56% of dog owners report using CBD products for their pets? CBD has become increasingly common to use for pets, growing in popularity steadily over the years. With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why anyone would want to use CBD for pets.
But is CBD safe for dogs? If you’ve been looking into CBD for dogs, we’re here to help. Read on for some of the greatest benefits and risks of cannabidiol oil for your canine friends.
What Is CBD?
CBD – cannabidiol oil – is an extract from the marijuana plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol – THC – CBD does nothing to give those that take it the characteristic “high” associated with marijuana. You can learn more about the different strains of derivative oils with this guide.
Instead, CBD has a host of health benefits for pets and humans alike. It’s commonly prescribed in many areas of the world and has hit over-the-counter shelves in most health stores. Completely safe and full of dozens of health benefits, CBD usage has become more and more common as time goes on.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
To begin with, CBD oil is completely safe for dogs. Most pet owners use CBD to help their dog’s health or comfort. Here are some of the biggest perks of using CBD oil for your pet.
Relieve Pain
One of the most common uses of CBD for dogs is to relieve pain. Because of this, it’s often given to dogs that have recently sustained some sort of injury.
A dog that injures itself somehow may receive CBD to help deal with the pain of the injury. Likewise, dogs that have recently undergone surgery for any reason. Doing so can help them deal with the pain while recovering without also leaving them knocked out on heavy painkillers.
CBD is also common for aging dogs that might experience pain from old age. Chows, for example, commonly experience issues with their hips as they age. CBD is sometimes given to them to help ease the pain of aging and make them as comfortable as possible.
Ease Anxiety
CBD is also well-known for its ability to help ease anxieties, both in pets and in people. For dogs that are suffering from high levels of anxiety, CBD is extremely beneficial.
If a dog is experiencing separation anxiety, CBD oil may help to lower their anxiety. A new dog having difficulty adjusting to its new home could also benefit. No matter what the source of anxiety, CBD can help to lower the symptoms.
Soften Seizures
A third frequent use of CBD for pets is to help lessen seizures. On the scientific side, CBD helps to stop seizures by activating cells called CB1 receptors. These cells are found in the nervous system and play an integral part in lowering the frequency and severity of seizures.
Risks of CBD for Dogs
These three benefits are only some of the dozens of benefits of CBD oil for dogs. However, that isn’t to say that there are no downsides whatsoever.
There are many things that dog owners should keep in mind when giving CBD to their canine friends. Here are some of the common risks of CBD for dogs.
Avoid THC and Hemp
Depending on what’s available in your area – and the legality of marijuana locally – you may find CBD products with THC included. Many people use these for recreation and health benefits, but your dog should never receive these products.
THC in any amount is toxic for your dog. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, distress, and many other consequences. Ensure that your dog doesn’t intake THC in any amount, for any reason.
Hemp oil is also not something that you want to give your dog. Many manufacturers may list CBD as “hemp seed oil” and flaunt the health effects for humans. These health effects are not seen in dogs, and you should avoid giving them such products.
Check Dosage
Another important step is to make sure that you check the dosage. CBD has not yet seen regulation from the Food and Drug Administration where dogs are concerned. Because of this, there are no guidelines for a dosage for your dogs.
To decide on a dosage, you should instead seek veterinary advice and discuss the possibility of CBD products for your animal. An expert vet can help you measure out a dosage for your pet depending on its size and constitution. Do not attempt to decide on your own dosage, as this can have adverse effects on your canine friends.
Common CBD Forms
Now that we know the pros and cons, what forms does CBD come in? Given that the chemical is so versatile, it’s common to see it in a myriad of forms. Here are some of the many ways you may find CBD.
Oil
Arguably the most common form for CBD is as an oil. Part of the popularity is how easy CBD is to take when in an oil form.
You can mix CBD oil in with your dog’s food without altering the taste, making it easier for them to take their medicine. You also can simply put the dropped in their mouth and give them their dosage.
Treats
CBD oil treats are also popular when using CBD for pets. Delicious treats are much more enjoyable for dogs than a pill hidden in a snack or pressed into their mouth. You won’t have to worry about your dog spitting this medicine back up.
Healthy and Safe for Dogs
CBD oil is a common medicine for dogs that grows more popular every year. Whether you’re giving your dog CBD for pain relief or to ease their anxiety, your dog is certain to benefit. CBD for dogs comes with risks if used improperly but is completely safe with the right usage.
For more information on using CBD for pets, feel free to browse our blog for more information.