You may have heard the buzz about CBD's ability to help aging dogs regain their mobility within just a week or two, or its power to calm a restless pet during thunderstorms.
In fact, one survey of pet owners suggested that nearly 75% noticed noticeable improvements in their dog's behavior within the first two weeks of using CBD for their dogs. With so many claims circulating, it's only natural for pet owners to wonder if these benefits are too good to be true. In this guide, we'll dive into what the research says, explore expert insights, and help you determine if CBD is the right choice for your furry friend.
Doing your research on CBD for dogs is important, and this guide intends to help you get a solid understanding of these products before making the appropriate purchase for your pet. So, let's take a look at cannabidiol products for pets, their use, and which options are most likely to benefit your dog.
Understanding CBD and Its Benefits for Dogs
CBD is short for cannabidiol, an organic compound found in the hemp plant. CBD is one of the most prominent compounds found in the hemp plant, and it's not to be confused with another compound called THC.
CBD interacts with your dog's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to promote a variety of health benefits discussed below, whereas THC is the compound that produces psychoactive "high" effects. Hemp contains less than 0.3% THC content and is not psychoactive to dogs.
Studies have shown CBD to be safe for extended daily use in most dogs. It's always smart to discuss new supplements with your veterinarian, especially if they have health issues or are taking medications. CBD, like most medications, is processed by your dog's liver. This means that the processing of CBD could interfere with your dog's ability to metabolize other drugs they are taking.
CBD's Primary Benefits for Dogs
CBD benefits dogs in two primary ways, although there are additional benefits that many dog owners are unaware of. The key benefits are calming and mobility support, while relief from topical discomfort (skin, nose, paws) and immune system health can be additional.
These four key benefits are the pillars of CBD's positive influence on dogs. Let's take a closer look at each benefit:
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Calming: CBD binds to receptors in your dog's endocannabinoid system, promoting balanced neural activity and a more regulated emotional response. This mechanism helps soothe distress during stressful events like thunderstorms and fireworks, while also supporting daily emotional health.
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Mobility: Pain and inflammation often limit a dog's ability to move comfortably. Because the endocannabinoid system plays a role in managing these signals, many pet owners have observed that regular CBD use supports a more balanced inflammatory response. Over time, this often translates into improved mobility and an enhanced quality of life.
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Topical Relief: When applied directly in the form of a balm or salve, CBD can provide targeted relief to irritated skin, easing discomfort in sensitive areas like paws, noses, and joints. Many pet owners report that regular use leads to noticeably improved skin comfort and even less itching, scratching, or licking.
- Immune System Support: A robust immune system is crucial for overall canine health. CBD’s interaction with key regulatory pathways may help strengthen your dog's natural defenses, leading to enhanced vitality and resilience. Many pet owners observe noticeable improvements in energy and overall well-being with regular use.
These benefits are supported by early research, not just customer reports. This study on the scientific validation of CBD for management of dog and cat diseases states that "some dog studies have found CBD to improve clinical signs of osteoarthritis, pruritus (itching), and epilepsy."
Further, this Oxford Academic article from the Journal of Animal Science demonstrates that daily dosing of CBD has a positive effect on measures of stress in dogs during repeated exposure to car travel.
How Does CBD Work in Dogs?
CBD works by connecting with special receptors in your dog’s body that help control mood, pain, and much more. This natural relationship between CBD and your dog's receptors encourages a steady state, which can reduce stress, discomfort, immune issues, and more.
How quickly you see results depends on your dog's metabolism, the dosage, and the type of CBD product used. Typically, effects may start within 30 to 60 minutes after giving it to your pet. Extended use often yields the most benefit due to the fact that CBD builds in a dog's system over time.
Choosing the right dose is key. Many owners give CBD in the morning to help maintain calm throughout the day, or in the evening to promote relaxation at night. Daily dosing is common, but it’s best to follow the product guidelines and consult your vet to tailor the dosage to your dog’s size, age, and health needs.
The Safety Profile of CBD for Dogs
Research and many pet owners’ experiences suggest that CBD is generally well-tolerated by dogs. When used responsibly, it isn’t linked to liver damage or serious side effects. However, always keep an eye on your pet for any unusual changes.
While overdosing on CBD is rare, too much can make your dog drowsy or cause mild digestive upset. If you see these signs, lower the dose and consult your vet.
Conclusion
CBD is generally considered safe for dogs, and research shows that it can have a variety of benefits to emotional health, mobility, skin, and immunity health in dogs. These benefits are supported by a substantial number of dog owners who use CBD regularly for their dogs.
The use of CBD formulated specifically for our canine companions can be of great benefit, but be sure to follow the manufacturer's dosage guidelines and get the go-ahead from your veterinarian before starting.
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