The use of CBD is intriguing to a lot of dog owners because of its ability to support calm, mobility, and overall wellness for our furry friends. Still, it's a new option so many people aren't sure whether or not it's ok for dogs of all sizes - particularly small dogs.
Fortunately, it's safe to give your small dog CBD treats so long as you give them the appropriate dosage based on their size. Most oil options have mg-labelled droppers, and soft chew treats are able to be split in half for small dogs.
Small Dogs Simply Need Smaller Dosages of CBD Treats
The general rule of thumb when giving CBD treats to your dog is, one mg per 10 pounds of body weight, twice daily.
So, if your dog only weighs 5 pounds and your CBD soft chews contain 3 mg, you would split that treat into thirds and give it to your dog in increments. Studies show that CBD is safe and well tolerated in healthy dogs at weight-appropriate dosages.
When to Increase a Small Dog's CBD Treat Dosage
If you give your dog the recommended dosage for a couple of weeks but still think they could benefit from more, simply increase the twice daily dosage by 0.5mg. That means you'll give them an additional mg per day.
After a couple weeks, you should be able to notice a difference, and you can increase at that point if you still think there are more potential benefits. As always, consult with your veterinarian before increasing your dog's dosage, especially if they're on other medications that could be affected by the use of CBD.
Can Small Dogs Overdose on CBD?
There are no existing reports of a dog overdosing and dying from the use of CBD. There are negative symptoms associated with extremely high doses of CBD for dogs, but none of them have shown to be life threatening.
If your dog has consumed too much CBD and you're worried, contact your veterinarian. Take a deep breath, because they will most likely just experience drowsiness and digestive upset. Still, it's important to visit your veterinarian and make sure everything is okay.
Dogs with liver issues or dogs taking other medications are at a higher risk for serious side effects with the overconsumption of pet CBD.
What are The Benefits of CBD Treats for Small Dogs?
CBD treats for small dogs may provide a range of benefits that support their overall well-being. These treats are designed to be easy to administer and offer:
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Support for Comfort: CBD treats can help maintain comfort for dogs experiencing occasional stiffness or discomfort, helping them stay more active and engaged.
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Calming Effect: Small dogs, especially those prone to nervousness or stress, may benefit from the calming properties of CBD, which may help them feel more at ease in stressful situations.
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Digestive Wellness: Some small dogs may experience digestive upset, and CBD treats may help support a healthy balance, promoting more consistent eating habits.
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Promoting Rest: CBD may help promote relaxation, potentially supporting better rest for small dogs who may struggle with sleep due to mild discomfort or stress.
As always, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure CBD treats are a good fit for your pet’s individual needs and to determine the appropriate dosage.
Conclusion
CBD treats are a safe option for small dogs when you use appropriate dosages according to your dog's weight. Make sure to discuss this option with your veterinarian, especially if your dog is taking other medications.
If your small dog takes too much CBD, give your veterinarian a call to make sure everything is okay. Note that there haven't been any reported deaths from dogs overdosing on CBD. When given in appropriate weight-based dosages, CBD can provide small dogs with benefits like calming, mobility support, digestive health, and overall wellness.
