With the increasing popularity of human CBD products, many dog and cat owners are turning to CBD (cannabidiol) as a potential remedy for various health issues in their pets.
However, along with the growing interest in using CBD oil for dogs comes concerns about its safety, particularly in terms of dosage and potential risks of overdose. This article is intended to help dog owners understand the risks and rewards of using CBD for their dogs.
Potential Risk of CBD Overdose in Dogs
While CBD is generally safe for dogs, high doses can cause serious side effects, especially in dogs with health conditions or those on medications. Possible risks include respiratory depression, low blood pressure, gastrointestinal upset, urinary incontinence, extreme drowsiness, and liver enzyme abnormalities. Additionally, CBD can interact with medications metabolized by the liver, potentially altering their effectiveness.
Legally manufactured pet CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, which is well-tolerated by dogs and unlikely to cause harm. However, products not specifically formulated for pets or those with higher THC levels can pose risks, including neurological impairment and lethargy. Always choose reputable pet-specific CBD products and consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog's safety.
Proper CBD Dog Dosage & Safety Tips
To safely use CBD for dogs, pet owners should consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and monitor their pets closely for reactions. Start with a low dose, gradually increasing it based on your dog's weight, age, and health. Choose high-quality, hemp-derived CBD products that are third-party lab tested for purity and potency.
Responsible CBD use also involves storing products securely, monitoring your dog’s response, and consulting your vet about potential interactions with other medications. Report any adverse reactions to your veterinarian and follow their guidance to ensure your pet’s well-being.
The Bottom Line
While CBD is not toxic to dogs, improper dosing or low-quality products can pose health risks. According to the World Health Organization, CBD has minimal negative effects on animals unless given in extremely high doses. If your dog accidentally ingests too much CBD, serious harm is unlikely, but it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately to ensure their safety.
Frequently Asked Questions about CBD Overdose in Dogs
1. I Gave My Dog Too Much CBD - What Should I Do?
Get a clear estimate of how much CBD in mg that your dog ingested. Call an emergency vet to discuss the amount of CBD taken by your dog in relation to their weight.
If your dog is ill, on other medications, or showing any of the serious symptoms listed in this article, visit the vet immediately.
Note that CBD has never killed a dog on its own. Only dogs with other health complications or risk factors are known to experience serious negative side effects at very high dosages.
If You Simply Gave Your Dog a Little More Than Recommended, Don't Panic.
The general dosage guidelines for starting dogs on CBD is 1mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, twice daily.
Studies on the safety of CBD for dogs have shown that a safe daily dose can still sit within the range of 15 and 20 mg of CBD per day for a dog weighing 10 pounds.
2. Can a Dog Overdose on CBD Drops?
Techinically, you could give your dog far too many CBD drops and this could cause more serious side effects. As we noted above, straying a little over dosage guidelines is very unlikely to cause serious side effects in dogs.
If your dog drank a whole bottle of CBD oil for some reason, contact a veterinarian.
3. Can a Dog Overdose on CBD Chews?
A dog can overdose on CBD chews, yes, but this doesn't mean that it will be fatal. If your dog has eaten a whole bag of CBD chews, for example, call your veterinarian quickly but don't panic. CBD has never been reported to kill a dog.
So, while higher dosages aren't always recommended, that doesn't mean your dog is in any danger. If your dog has eaten a great deal of CBD, such as 100mg or more, it's time to contact your veterinarian or to get things examined.
