In the last few years, CBD ( Cannabidiol ) has become a one-stop solution for anxiety, sleep, and pain trouble for millions of people globally. However, it’s not just the humans who can benefit from CBD’s regular use. You must’ve noticed that many established CBD brands have also launched their dedicated pet lineup.
That’s because recent studies and anecdotal reports show that CBD effectively improves overall wellness among animals, especially dogs. So yes, CBD can do a lot for dogs; it can improve their sleep, help them with separation anxiety, mobility, and more.
This happens because CBD works on CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, which is present in both humans and dogs. So if you are in search of the best CBD oil for dogs with arthritis, anxiety, restlessness, or behavioral issues, this article is all you need to read. From safe administration methods to achieving maximum benefits, it will cover everything you need to know about CBD for dogs.
What is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol, is a natural compound that is present in cannabis sativa plants. It was first isolated from marijuana plants in 1940, with its final structure getting reported in 1963. Since then people around the world have used it in various forms to enjoy its healing effects. However, Nixxon’s war on drugs dramatically shifted its global stance and CBD ended up classified as a banned substance in many places.
However, things started to change with time, and in 2018, the USA passed a farm bill legalizing CBD on the federal level. Soon states followed this suit and CBD products can now easily and legally be bought in almost all 50 American states.
It also has acceptance in Europe, Latin America, and many other countries in the world. Clinical studies show that regular CBD use can help with skin problems, pain, anxiety, stress, mood, appetite, and more. CBD oil is the most convenient form, and it starts to work within 15-30 minutes of consumption when taken sublingually.
Is CBD Oil Safe for Dogs?
Yes, CBD oil is completely safe for dogs as long as you follow the dosage guidelines provided by the brand. You can make it a part of your dog’s everyday wellness routine by simply mixing it in their morning or evening food bowl.
Some people still have the stigma around hemp use, but you must know that CBD oil for dogs usually doesn’t contain any intoxicating cannabinoids. CBD itself doesn’t have psychoactive properties to create a high, and THC levels are restricted to 0.3% by the government.
Most pet CBD oils don’t have any THC in them at all. For those who don’t know, THC ( tetrahydrocannabinol ) is a cannabinoid that is mainly used for recreational purposes, but the hemp plant from which CBD oil for dogs is made has only trace amounts of it.
What can CBD do for Dogs?
From travel anxiety management to post-surgery pain relief, CBD can do a lot for your dog’s health. Let’s explore the benefits in detail :
Pain Relief
CBD produces strong analgesic effects, it can help aging and injured dogs in pain management. Initial studies show that CBD can help in curbing chronic pain, especially in dogs who have joint problems or arthritis. Regular dosing can make mobility better by reducing inflammation in key areas.
From a broader perspective, it can help with Arthritis and joint inflammation, Hip dysplasia, Degenerative disc disease, Post-surgical recovery pain, Muscle strains, and injuries. How? by curbing inflammation on a cellular level, dulling pain signals, and repairing damaged tissues.
Experts believe that CBD works better than traditional medicines in some cases and produces much fewer side effects. It doesn’t stress the liver or kidneys as much as some pharmaceutical painkillers.
Anxiety and Behavior Issues
Just like humans dogs are severely prone to anxiety. It can stem from owner separation, change in environment, loud noises, or stress during travel. Many dog owners report that CBD is effective in calming their fur balls during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when left alone.
It allows dogs to relax and mellow, and using it along with proper training and behavioral techniques can be highly beneficial.
For example, a dog terrified of thunderstorms might become more relaxed and less likely to hide or destroy furniture when given appropriate CBD doses. CBD can also bring down hyperactivity, stabilize mood, and allow dogs to sleep better.
Digestive, Skin & Cardiovascular Health
Dogs’ skin is like a protective shield that tells us a lot about their overall health. When a dog experiences skin allergies, it’s often because their immune system is overreacting. This leads to inflammation, itching, and discomfort. Applying CBD oil on effects can soothe the irritating skin. It may also improve fur/coat texture and shine.
For dogs suffering from digestive issues, CBD can reduce nausea, regulate appetite, bring down bowel inflammation, and make the overall digestive system more balanced. Last but not least, CBD can do wonders for your dog’s cardiovascular health.
It may regulate blood pressure which reduces the stress on the heart and blood vessels. It can also support circulatory system function and better overall heart health. Especially for senior dogs, CBD oil every day can help them with restlessness, excessive panting, and overall aches, pain, irritation, and heart issues.
The Final Thoughts
To sum it up, Yes, CBD can do a lot for dogs. It can improve their mood, reduce pain, curb anxiety, improve sleep, make digestion better, enhance fur texture, and help dogs calm down and relax during loud noises, environment changes, and travel. It may also help with post-surgery pain, or with relaxation after too much activity.
All in all, it’s a trusted and safe way to help your canine friend live a better life. However, you must follow the dosage guidelines carefully. Giving too much CBD may make your dog drowsy and lazy, so make sure to follow the dosage chart as per body weight. Lastly, you must buy CBD Oil for your dog only from reputed and well-tested brands like Colorado Botanicals.
