This article discusses whether or not CBD is a good option for dogs with separation anxiety.

Does CBD Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety?

Posted by Lianne McLeod D.V.M. on

This article discusses whether or not CBD is a good option for dogs with separation anxiety.

Many pet owners have successfully used CBD oil to support their dogs' separation anxiety. That said, separation anxiety is a multi-faceted issue that can't always be resolved with one method. 

In many cases, it takes multiple strategies to fully resolve. This article will look into numerous aspects of separation anxiety in dogs, and whether CBD is an effective option for you to explore.

Lola Hemp Logo Pet owners are giving this oil unbelievable reviews for natural calming.

Let's get started. 

 

A dog wrapped in toilet paper, an example of separation anxiety behavior
  

Can CBD Help with Your Dog's Separation Anxiety?

Studies have shown that CBD oil may help dogs relax. CBD for dogs are products that are specifically made for the safe consumption of dogs. In the following sections, we will expand on CBD in reference to dogs, how it works, how to administer it, and what to expect after your dog takes it.

  • CBD oil is one of the most popular forms for dogs and cats as you can add it to your dog’s food, or administer it directly into your dog's mouth. They come with droppers that make it easy to measure the doses.

  • CBD treats and chews for dogs are similar to other treats and chews but are infused with CBD. They come in flavors such as beef that are familiar to your dog, making them convenient if your dog does not like CBD oils.

  • CBD topicals include balms or creams with CBD in them that can be used for localized relief, such as soothing skin irritation.

How Does CBD Work For Dogs with Separation Anxiety? 

CBD supports the canine emotional state by influencing the endocannabinoid system.

One of the ways full spectrum CBD may help with dog anxiety is by influencing serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and feelings of well-being.

CBD has been shown to interact with serotonin receptors, potentially mimicking the effects of serotonin and promoting a calmer state in anxious dogs.

Another mechanism by which full spectrum CBD may alleviate dog anxiety is through its interaction with GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors.

Dogs with separation anxiety often exhibit elevated cortisol levels, and full spectrum CBD may support a more balanced stress response and reduced symptoms in affected dogs.

 

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How Will I Know CBD is Working for My Dog's Separation Anxiety?

Note that the full benefits of CBD may take time to show, sometimes several weeks of consistent use. You should also know that some dogs may not respond to CBD as effectively as others. When full-spectrum CBD begins to work, you may notice:

  • Reduced vocalization: Less whining, howling, or barking when you're away or during stressful events.

  • Decreased destructive tendencies: Fewer incidents of chewing furniture, scratching doors, or digging.

  • Improved calmness: Your dog may seem more relaxed during typically anxiety-inducing situations like car travel or exposure to loud noises.

  • Better sleep patterns: CBD may help regulate sleep, leading to more restful nights and less nighttime anxiety.

  • Increased interaction: A less anxious dog may be more willing to engage with family members or other dogs.

Record your dog's behavior before and after starting CBD so as to clearly know when the changes begin to happen and at what dosage. You can rate your dog's anxiety levels on a scale of 1-10 before and after CBD administration to track their progress objectively.

Another convenient technique you can use is setting up a camera to observe your dog's behavior when you're away. This can provide valuable insights into separation anxiety symptoms. Consider how CBD use affects other aspects of your dog's health, such as joint mobility or skin condition, which can indirectly impact anxiety levels.

Conclusion

Studies have shown that a single dose of CBD oil for dogs can positively influence measures of anxiety during periods of separation. Not all dogs will experience this benefit, but it's certainly possible that CBD oil could significantly help your dog manage their emotions while you're away. 

As a precaution, always involve your veterinarian in your dog's anxiety management plan. Your vet can perform physical exams and run lab tests to check for any physiological changes when your dog is using CBD oil.

 

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AUTHOR

Lianne McLeod, DVM, is a former writer for The Spruce Pets, contributing articles for 11 years. Before Dr. McLeod began writing about pet care, she worked several years in small animal practice. She has written extensively about the care and keeping of exotic pets and pet health care. She now researches water quality and chronic disease at the University of Saskatchewan. Lianne McLeod earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. She also received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Simon Fraser University. She continued her education and received a Ph.D. in Epidemiology from the University of Saskatchewan. Now, she splits her time between her family, research and writing about pet health for all the animal lovers out there.


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