How Long Does CBD Last in a Dog?

When you find a great pet CBD option near you, there's a question you should ask before giving it to your pet: "How long does CBD last in a dog?"

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound that is found in the cannabis plant. CBD oil for dogs is derived from the hemp plant, a variety of cannabis that contains only trace amounts of THC. 

CBD is used for its potential to have therapeutic effects on various aspects of canine health - but how long does it stay in the dog's system after a dosage? Let's find out. 

How Long Does CBD Last in a Dog?

Now, let's break down today's topic. The duration of CBD's effects in dogs can vary widely, with studies reporting half-lives ranging from approximately 1 to 24 hours. This significant variability means that CBD's effects could last anywhere from a few hours to potentially over a day, depending on various factors.

Generally speaking, CBD is active in dogs for around 4-8 hours.

To you as a pet parent, knowing how long CBD lasts in your dog's system will help you provide much better support to your dog's overall wellbeing when exploring CBD as a holistic option. Just knowing isn't enough, you need to understand why knowing the CBD timeline for your dog is necessary: It will help you to:

• Establish an effective dosing schedule

• Ensure consistency in administering CBD

• Maximize the potential effects of the CBD routine for your dogs

• Avoid unintended interactions with other medications

Let's start by looking at the different types of CBD for dogs available and how each of them interact with a dog's body.

Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract vs. Isolate CBD

CBD products for dogs come in two main types: full spectrum and isolate.

Full Spectrum CBD Oils

Full-spectrum hemp extract includes a range of compounds found naturally in the hemp plant such as minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

These compounds may work together in a syngeristic manner, creating what's known as the "entourage effect." Many pet owners claim that their pets have seen better results from full-spectrum CBD oils for dogs.

Isolate CBD Oil

CBD isolate is pure cannabidiol, meaning that all other hemp compounds have been removed. But why would they make this option?

The reasoning behind this is that some pet parents' dogs may be sensitive to THC or other hemp compounds, and this option gives the pet owners the "better safe and sorry" option to avoid even the trace amounts of THC.

CBD Half-Life in Dogs

In pharmacology, the term "half life" refers to the time it takes for the concentration of a substance in the body to be reduced by half.

This concept can help guide how often to administer CBD by allowing you to understand how long CBD remains active in a dog's system and even help determine appropriate dosing schedules.

How is half-life calculated?

Half-life is calculated through blood tests that measure the concentration of a substance at various time points after its administration. For CBD in dogs, finding the half life involves analyzing blood samples to track how quickly CBD levels will decrease over time.

What Does Half-Life Tell Us About CBD's Effects?

Half-life provides insight into how long CBD's effects may last and how frequently it should be administered to maintain desired benefits. However, the presence of CBD in the blood doesn't necessarily correlate directly with its effects, given that CBD can accumulate in tissues and may have lasting impacts on the endocannabinoid system.

Estimated Half-Life of CBD in Dogs

Research has shown that the half-life of CBD in dogs is estimated to be between 1-24 hours. Studies also show that this can vary depending on factors such as the dog's metabolism, size, and the method of CBD administration.

Factors Affecting CBD Duration in Dogs

How long CBD lasts in your dog's system is determined by several factors that have been studied:

1. Dog's Size and Body Weight

Studies show that larger dogs may metabolize CBD more slowly than smaller dogs. Larger dogs in terms of weight are those that are over 50 pounds, medium dogs range between 20-50 pounds in weight, and the smaller dogs are under 20 pounds.

For medium-sized dogs, CBD will often last the average time; not less than the smaller dogs or more than the larger dogs. Further, it states that smaller dogs may process CBD faster and therefore they may need more doses. The larger dogs are shown to metabolize CBD more slowly thus they experience long-lasting effects.

Some studies explain this further in terms of bioavailability. For instance, in CBD, bioavailability is the proportion of CBD that enters your dog's circulation when it's introduced into the dog's system. Therefore, given larger dogs have a greater blood volume, it can dilute the concentration of CBD and affect the CBD duration and effects.

2. Metabolism and Age

Most younger dogs have a faster metabolism when compared to most older dogs. The study makes the observation broader by highlighting that dogs with faster metabolisms may process CBD in their system much faster as compared to those with slower metabolisms.

As dogs age, their metabolism naturally slows down; alluding that older dogs may retain CBD in their system for a longer time as compared to younger dogs.

Moreover, older dogs may have reduced endocannabinoid system responses; given that this system influences how the dog's system processes and uses CBD.

3. CBD Administration Method

Types of Dog CBD options include CBD oils, CBD treats, and CBD tinctures. Let's look into them at an individual level:

Dog CBD Oil

Pet owners can directly give CBD oil directly into their dogs' mouths or mix it with the dogs' food. When CBD oil for dogs is ingested, it gets absorbed through the digestive tract.

This absorption process is also affected by the dog's recent food intake and the presence of other substances in the digestive system.

CBD oil may have a longer-lasting effect compared to other methods given that it's processed through the digestive system and liver before entering the dog's bloodstream.

CBD Treats

CBD treats are edible products infused with CBD in the form of biscuits or chews. CBD treats are processed through the dog's digestive system but the presence of other ingredients in the treat can affect CBD absorption rates in the dog's body.

Dog CBD treats have been established to be a convenient and even palatable option for dogs. Your dog's might view them as actual treats, as they're often flavored to be delicious to our pups. 

4. Dosage and Concentration

Higher doses of CBD will generally result in longer-lasting effects given that there's more of the CBD compound to be processed by the dog's body. But, the higher doses don't equate to better results of the desired benefits.

The best CBD dosage and concentration is the optimal one you will discover when you gradually increase and monitor how the dog's body responds to the dog CBD oil.

Choose High-Quality, Third-Party Tested CBD Products

The quality of CBD products you select for your dog is very important. Here are some things to consider:

1. Look for Third-Party Testing

The Cornell University College article highlights that companies should have their products tested by independent laboratories. These tests verify the CBD content and check for contaminants.

2. Check for a Certificate of Analysis

This document is offered by some companies to provide detailed information about what the CBD product is made of and its purity level.

Potential CBD Side Effects

While some studies have concluded that many dogs tolerate CBD, individual responses may vary. Let's look at the list of side effects of dog CBD you may expect:

1. Dry Mouth

THC in CBD can interact with the dog's salivary glands and may lead to reduced saliva production. As a result, the dog experiences increased thirst and a dry mouth sensation. The signs you should watch out for are:

• Increased water consumption

• Dry, sticky gums

• Drooling less than usual

2. Drowsiness

CBD may lead to a calming effect in some dogs and may make them drowsy. Drowsiness signs include:

• Lethargy

• Reduced activity levels

• Slower response to stimuli

3. Changes in Appetite

CBD oil may influence receptors involved in regulating appetite, possibly causing changes in eating habits and can either increase or decrease appetite, depending on the dog. The study outlines that the changes you may notice in your dog include:

• Eating more or less than usual

• Changes in the dog's eagerness for meals

• Weight gain or loss

The study further highlights that a significant change in appetite may affect your dog's nutrition and overall health; consult your vet on how to go about this.

Special Considerations for Older Dogs or Those with Health Conditions

This study cautions that age might affect the dog's response to CBD.

• Metabolism: Older dogs often have slower metabolisms, which can affect how they process CBD.

• Drug interactions: Older dogs that are on other medications have an increased risk of the dog CBD and vet-prescribed medication interaction.

• Sensitivity: Some older dogs may be more sensitive to CBD's effects.

This study also warns about health conditions that need special considerations when thinking about dog CBD oil for your friend:

• Liver disease: The study shows that CBD may further take a toll on dogs with liver issues

• Heart conditions: Dog CBD may interact with some of your dog's heart medications and may pose a danger

• Neurological conditions: While dog CBD may support neurological health, it's crucial to monitor its effects closely in dogs with these conditions.

The Endocannabinoid System in Dogs

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex cell-signaling system found in all mammals, including dogs. Their function is an important role in maintaining balance or homeostasis in various bodily functions such as :

• Mood

• Sleep

• Appetite

• Memory

• Immune response

The ECS Has Three Main Components:

• Endocannabinoids: Naturally occurring compounds in the body

• Receptors: Found throughout the body, these bind with endocannabinoids and cannabinoids like CBD

• Enzymes: Responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids once they've carried out their function

ECS Relation with CBD for Dogs

CBD interaction with the ECS may contribute to balance in the dog's body. This relationship between CBD and the endocannabinoid system is the source or any impact that CBD has on a dog's wellness.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our deep dive into the question "How long does CBD last in a dog?", let's take a moment to reflect. We've gone through the basics of CBD, from its hemp-based origins to the fascinating way it interacts with your dogs' endocannabinoid systems, and even discovered that CBD's effects can last anywhere from 1 to 24 hours in your dog’s system,

But here's the real treat: we've learned that every dog's CBD experience is as unique as their bark. From the tiny Chihuahuas to the gentle giants, size really does matter when it comes to how long CBD stays in their system. Stay curious, stay informed, and most importantly, stay tuned to your dog's unique rhythm.