As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends, including a good night’s sleep. Just like humans, dogs can experience restlessness, anxiety, and various conditions that disrupt their sleep patterns.
Recently, CBD (cannabidiol) has gained popularity as a potential solution for these issues. But how exactly can CBD help your dog sleep better? Let’s dive into the science and benefits.
Lolahemp's Calming Oil with chamomile, CBD, and L-theanine is vet formulated to help dogs relax.
CBD for Dogs Sleeping: How it Helps
CBD doesn't work directly as a sleep aid, but it can help relieve dogs from symptoms that prevent them from falling asleep. Most dogs who can't sleep are stressed, in discomfort, or generally unable to relax.
Dogs should sleep for anywhere from 12 to 18 hours per day, depending on age. So, if there's something wrong with their sleep pattern, there's likely an underlying issue. CBD won't necessarily be able to help dogs with these underlying issues, but there's a good chance that it could.
At the very least, CBD typically helps dogs get into a more comfortable and relaxed mood which should support their ability to sleep.
1. Promoting Relaxation
One of the primary ways CBD may help dogs sleep better is by promoting relaxation. Many dogs experience anxiety due to various triggers, such as loud noises, separation from their owners, or changes in their environment.
CBD has been shown to have calming effects which can help reduce stress and anxiety levels in dogs. By alleviating these feelings, your pup may find it easier to settle down and enjoy a peaceful night's sleep.
2. Reducing Pain and Discomfort
Chronic pain can significantly impact a dog's ability to sleep well. Conditions such as arthritis or other joint issues can lead to discomfort that keeps them awake at night.
CBD has inflammatory response-supporting properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation, making it easier for dogs to relax and find a comfortable position to sleep.
3. Regulating Sleep Patterns
Some studies suggest that CBD may help regulate sleep patterns by affecting the sleep-wake cycle. This can be particularly beneficial for older dogs or those with disrupted sleep schedules.
By helping to create a more regular sleep pattern, CBD may contribute to a more restful night for your canine companion.
My Dog Howls in Sleep - Will CBD Help?
If your dog's howling during sleep is linked to a heightened sense of stress, there's a chance that CBD could help them relax and a delve into a deeper sleep. This is difficult to say, because dogs might howl in their sleep for a number of reasons.
At the very least, CBD is a safe option for you to consider with the help of your veterinarian.
How to Use CBD for Dog Sleep
If you’re considering CBD to help your dog sleep better, it’s important to approach it thoughtfully. Here are some guidelines to help you safely and effectively incorporate CBD into your dog’s routine:
1. Consult Your Veterinarian
Before introducing CBD to your dog, it's essential to talk to your veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice based on your dog's health, age, and specific needs. This step ensures that CBD is a safe option for your furry friend.
2. Choose the Right Product
Select high-quality CBD products specifically formulated for pets. Look for:
- Full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD: These contain a range of beneficial compounds.
- Third-party testing: Ensure the product is tested for purity and potency, confirming it contains the labeled amount of CBD.
- Natural ingredients: Avoid products with artificial additives or harmful substances.
3. Determine the Appropriate Dosage
Start with a low dose to gauge your dog’s response. General dosing guidelines suggest:
- Small dogs (under 25 lbs): Start with 2-5 mg of CBD.
- Medium dogs (25-50 lbs): Start with 5-10 mg.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): Start with 10-20 mg.
Always adjust based on your dog's individual needs, and consult your vet if you’re unsure.
4. Administer CBD Consistently
Consistency is key for seeing results. Administer CBD at the same time each day, ideally about 30-60 minutes before bedtime, to help promote relaxation and prepare your dog for sleep.
5. Monitor Your Dog’s Response
Keep an eye on how your dog reacts to CBD. Look for signs of improvement in sleep quality, such as:
- Easier time settling down at night
- Reduced anxiety during stressful situations
- Longer periods of restful sleep
If you notice any adverse reactions, such as increased agitation or changes in behavior, stop using the product and consult your veterinarian.
6. Adjust as Needed
Based on your observations, you may need to adjust the dosage or timing of administration. Some dogs may require a higher dose for desired effects, while others may respond well to lower amounts.
Using CBD for Puppy Sleep
You may be thinking, "my adult dog sleeps just fine, but my new puppy is driving me nuts!"
Puppies naturally wake up a little more often, but they should sleep more than adult dogs on average. In any case, if there's something getting in the way of your little puppy's sleep schedule, you can consider using CBD to help them relax.
That said, only use CBD for your puppy if your veterinarian approves of it, and ensure that your small dog is not younger than 12 weeks old. Young puppies that are still nursing, have health issues, or are prone to allergic reactions shouldn't use CBD either.
Start at The Smallest Possible Dosage and Monitor for Results
If your veterinarian approves using CBD for your puppy to help them sleep, start at the lowest dosage of CBD you can and monitor their response to it.
If they tolerate the CBD well and it helps them sleep, stick with the dosage you used and give it to them 30-60 minutes before bed time.
More Articles About CBD for Dogs
- CBD Peanut Butter for Dogs: Peanut butter is an option that many dogs love, but is peanut butter CBD for dogs a good option for natural calming support?
- Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil for Dogs: What is the difference between hemp oil and CBD oil? This article discusses all of the ins and outs, helping you make the best decision for your pet.
- Hempseed for Dogs: Is hempseed for dogs the same thing as CBD oil? It turns out, these two natural products are quite different. Get a better sense of the differences between hemp and CBD, and how these can affect your pet.
- Difference between Pet and Human CBD: What's the difference between pet CBD and human CBD? Should pets take human CBD oil, and can humans take pet hemp oil? This article answers these questions and more.
- How to Give CBD Oil to Dogs: When giving your dog CBD for the first time, you're probably curious about how to give CBD oil to dogs. This article covers how to give dogs CBD oil in detail, assuring your pet's results and safety.
- Best Dog Hair Oil: What's the best dog fur oil? Hair oil for dogs is an underestimated powerhouse that can support topical issues, coat health and more. This article reviews your options when it comes to dog hair oils.
- Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs Benefits: Salmon fish oil is a common supplement for dogs. Canine salmon oil comes in a number of forms, but wild Alaskan salmon oil is considered one of the best options for dogs—learn more here.
- Omega 3 for Dogs: Omega 3 oil for dogs is typically purchased in the form of fish oil supplements. This article covers some lesser-known sources of omega 3 fatty acids for dogs.
- Camelina Oil for Dogs: Camelina oil is a little-known product that might be able to support your pet. This article discusses everything you need to know about camelina oil for dogs and how it may help.
- Oil for Dogs Dry Skin: What's the best oil for dogs with dry skin? This article will give you a better idea of your choices of oil for dry skin on dogs.
- Symptoms of Too Much CBD in Dogs: Can dogs overdose on CBD? This article discusses everything you need to know to be confident when purchasing pet CBD.
- CBD for Dogs Fireworks: CBD for dogs scared of fireworks can be very helpful. This article discusses CBD for dogs on the 4th of July, thunderstorms, and other loud events.
- CBD for Dogs Skin Allergies: What's the best CBD for dog allergies? This article gives you everything you need to know about CBD’s topical benefits for allergies and itching.
References
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352154619301378
- https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326553/
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00315/full
- https://journals.lww.com/pain/Abstract/2020/09000/A_randomized,_double_blind,_placebo_controlled.24.aspx
