A Guide to Dog CBD Products

Introduction to CBD Products for Dogs

For pet owners, the market for CBD dog products has been growing steadily, with numerous claims of health benefits for pets. Many have already tried these products and reported positive outcomes.

FAQs on CBD for Dogs

Whether you’re new to CBD products for dogs or just want to know more about the potential therapeutic effects, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the benefits of CBD for your furry friend.

Understanding CBD

CBD, which stands for Cannabidiol, is a natural compound present in cannabis and hemp plants.

Is CBD cannabis/marijuana?

Technically, CBD is not equivalent to cannabis, particularly in reference to the recreational marijuana used by many people.

Nevertheless, CBD is a type of cannabinoid present in the cannabis plant, among over 120 others. Among these compounds is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), known for its psychoactive effects that produce the “high” typically associated with recreational marijuana consumption.

CBD products for dogs might contain a very small and harmless quantity of THC or, ideally, none at all, particularly if the substance is derived from hemp instead of marijuana.

Is CBD safe for dogs?

Whether CBD is safe for dogs depends on the method of consumption. Recreational cannabis can be harmful when ingested through edibles or inhaled via second-hand smoke.

Symptoms of cannabis toxicosis in dogs may include incoordination, lethargy, and vomiting, but it’s rarely fatal.

On the other hand, if CBD is used as a medicinal product, there is increasing evidence to suggest it is not only safe but also beneficial for pets.

Despite the positive results, it’s important to note that the scientific research on the effectiveness and potential side effects of CBD in pets is still limited but expanding rapidly.

Given that CBD products in the USA are currently not regulated, it is crucial to research products thoroughly. Look for CBD products with low or no THC, as well as free from additives or harmful substances.

Prior to giving your dog any CBD products, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide a professional opinion based on your pet’s overall health and specific needs.

Is CBD safe for puppies?

Many manufacturers of CBD products claim that their products are safe for puppies, although a lower dosage is often recommended.

However, most studies on CBD have primarily focused on adult dogs.

“CBD has not been scientifically studied on puppies yet, so its safety for them remains uncertain,” Ward explains. “It is advisable to use CBD for puppies only under veterinary supervision.”

Given the lack of scientific evidence and the pivotal stage of a puppy’s life, many pet owners may choose to wait before considering using CBD for their puppies.

What are the advantages of CBD for canines?

Many brands offer a variety of CBD products for dogs that claim to provide numerous health benefits. While these advantages are currently based on anecdotal evidence from pet owners and veterinarians, scientific research has yet to fully substantiate these claims.

Nonetheless, it is established that dogs, similar to other mammals, possess an endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Dr. Eleanor Green, a Professor and Dean Emerita at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, explains, “The ECS is essential for maintaining homeostasis, ensuring the body functions optimally. Plant-derived cannabinoids [such as CBD] act like natural neurotransmitters to influence the ECS.”

Explore some potential practical uses of CBD for dogs:

Calming

Some dogs experience anxiety triggered by thunderstorms, fireworks, or being left alone. It is observed that CBD can have a soothing effect on dogs, with specific products tailored to address this concern.

Epilepsy

It is noteworthy that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved one cannabis-derived drug for humans, Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication proven to treat seizures.

Researchers in veterinary medicine are investigating the potential benefits of CBD products for treating epilepsy in dogs, although more studies are required before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Despite the need for further research, some owners of dogs with epilepsy have resorted to using CBD products, particularly when traditional treatments have not been successful.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a common problem in older dogs that can cause significant pain. While there is no known cure, various treatments and supplements are available to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

A recent study suggested that CBD may be effective in managing osteoarthritis symptoms without any reported adverse effects. Although the study had a limited sample size, many pet owners have been using CBD for this purpose with positive outcomes, indicating the need for further research in this area.

Types of Dog CBD Products Available

Many brands offer a variety of CBD products for dogs, with the most common form being oil. Many pet owners opt for this type as it allows for precise dosage measurements at home. Additionally, CBD is also available in capsules, gummies, and treats for dogs.

Choosing the Ideal CBD Product for Your Canine Companion

Deciding on the best CBD product for your dog involves various considerations. Firstly, it hinges on the particular ailment you aim to address—certain CBD products are tailored for specific purposes like pain management or promoting relaxation.

Moreover, pet owners should take into account their dog’s preference for administering medication—some animals may find it challenging to swallow pills, whereas others may not react positively to having oil administered orally or topically.

Are there any adverse reactions to CBD dog products?

Advocates of CBD often highlight the lack of severe side effects associated with its use.

Nevertheless, numerous CBD product manufacturers caution about potential minor side effects, such as dry mouth, drowsiness, and decreased blood pressure leading to faintness.

Research in this area indicates a few recurring patterns as well.

“Studies have shown that when CBD is administered at moderate levels, there may be an increase in liver enzymes,” Ward explains. “Additionally, opting for a CBD product that contains THC could result in trace amounts of THC being retained in the body.”

Is it Safe to Mix Different CBD Dog Products?

If each product only contains CBD and you are vigilant about tracking the dosages, it is safe to combine various CBD dog products.

However, there is a potential danger when mixing products that contain other cannabinoids or lower-quality CBD products that may have more CBD than indicated on the label. Due to the lack of regulation, pet owners need to do thorough research to prevent such risks.

Does CBD Increase a Dog’s Appetite?

While recreational marijuana is often linked to an increase in hunger, CBD is not believed to be the compound responsible for this phenomenon. Currently, there is no scientific proof that CBD triggers hunger in dogs or humans.

Can dogs develop a dependency on CBD products?

In 2017, the World Health Organization determined that CBD does not have addictive properties or pose any harm, but refrained from endorsing it for medical purposes.⁴

While this decision pertained to humans, there is no indication that dogs can develop a dependency on CBD either.

Is it Possible for Dogs to Consume Too Much CBD?

A recent study discovered that healthy dogs can handle increasing amounts of CBD oil without issue, especially when compared to oils containing THC.

However, it is still possible for dogs to ingest excessive amounts of CBD, which could result in more severe consequences than the typical side effects like vomiting and diarrhea. While these symptoms may not necessitate immediate veterinary care, caution should be exercised.

Considering that the FDA does not regulate the CBD industry and there is no definitive consensus on the proper dosage, pet owners should be cautious when introducing CBD treatments to their dogs. Furthermore, there is the potential for products to contain other cannabinoids, such as THC, or other harmful substances that may not be well-tolerated by dogs.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs in the Long Run?

According to Ward, Best Dog Foodz, CBD has not undergone significant long-term scientific studies in dogs, indicating the need for further research in this area. However, studies spanning up to three months have shown CBD to be safe, with no notable side effects, making it a potentially viable option for continuous use over time.