If you have a dog, you might have heard about CBD and how it can help dogs with different problems like anxiety, pain, or even skin issues. CBD, which comes from the hemp plant, has become popular among pet owners because it’s natural and could improve a dog’s health without serious side effects. 

But before giving your dog CBD, it’s important to understand what it is, how it works, and if it’s safe. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what CBD can do for dogs, its benefits, and what to consider before using it for your pet. Whether you’re thinking about trying CBD or just want to know more, this guide will give you a clear picture.

What Does CBD Do for Dogs? How Does it Work?

CBD works in dogs as it does in humans by interacting with their endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps regulate important functions like mood, pain, appetite, and immune responses. Animals, including dogs, have this ECS, which includes receptors throughout their body—especially in the brain and nervous system.

Cannabidiol (CBD) interacts with these receptors but in a way that doesn’t produce a high like THC does. Instead, CBD helps balance the ECS by promoting relaxation, reducing inflammation, and relieving discomfort, depending on the body’s needs.

When CBD enters a dog’s body, it binds to receptors known as CB1 and CB2. These receptors are found in the brain and the nervous and immune systems. By influencing these receptors, CBD can help manage conditions like anxiety, arthritis, and chronic pain. It helps the body use its endocannabinoids more effectively to maintain balance or homeostasis, which is important for the dog’s overall health.

So, while THC creates a psychoactive effect by binding to specific receptors like AEA (anandamide), CBD works differently, indirectly affecting the receptors to help regulate the body’s normal functions without causing any mind-altering effects. This makes it a safer and more practical option for dogs.

Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

Yes, CBD without THC contents is generally considered safe for dogs, but there are a few important things to keep in mind. Most studies and reports from veterinarians suggest that CBD, when given in the proper dosage, is well-tolerated by dogs and can provide health benefits without serious side effects.

However, like with any supplement or medication, there are some factors to consider;

• Giving the right amount of CBD is crucial. 
• Too much CBD could lead to side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or upset stomach. 
• Always start with a low dose and gradually increase based on your dog’s reaction and vet’s advice.
• Make sure to use high-quality, pet-specific CBD products. 
• Human CBD products might contain ingredients like THC or harmful additives that could be dangerous to dogs. 
• Look for products that are third-party tested and free of THC.

Before starting CBD, it’s best to consult your vet, especially if your dog is taking other medications.

Also Read: Is CBD Safe For Your Pet?

What Dog Problems Can CBD Treat?

Is CBD good for dogs? Here are some common conditions that CBD may help solve or improve;

Anxiety and Stress: Dogs, just like humans, can experience anxiety, leading to unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or indoor accidents. CBD may help calm them by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and anxiety levels.

Arthritis and Joint Pain: As dogs age, they can develop arthritis, leading to stiffness and pain. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and discomfort, making it easier for dogs to move.

Seizures and Epilepsy: For dogs with epilepsy, CBD may help reduce the frequency of seizures, especially in cases where traditional anti-seizure medications aren’t effective. A recent study by ElleVet Sciences, conducted at the University of Florida, found that CBD+CBDA oil significantly reduced the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs.

Chronic Pain: Whether due to injury, surgery, or age-related issues, CBD may relieve chronic pain in dogs by reducing inflammation and interacting with pain receptors in the nervous system.

Research by Dr. Joseph Wakshlag from Cornell University shows that CBD can help manage osteoarthritis, atopic dermatitis, and seizures in dogs. His study found that over 80% of dogs with osteoarthritis significantly improved pain levels and mobility when treated with CBD oil.

CBD is being studied for its potential to treat itchy skin (pruritus) and other nervous system disorders in pets. Additionally, research is ongoing to explore its effects on cancer symptoms, including pain and appetite loss. Although more studies are needed, CBD shows promise as a valuable addition to pet care.

CBD Dosing Guide For Dogs

You might have this question lingering—How much CBD should I give my dog? Determining the correct CBD dosage for your dog depends on a few factors: their size, the condition you’re treating, and the type of CBD product you’re using.

Most CBD dog products have dosing instructions that recommend how many milligrams (mg) of CBD to give based on your dog’s weight. It’s important to start with a small dose and slowly increase it until you notice improvements, like less anxiety or better mobility. Starting low helps avoid giving too much, which could lead to side effects like drowsiness. A common starting point is 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of body weight, but it’s best to consult with a vet for specific dosing recommendations.

Once you find the right dose that works for your dog, stick with it. Unlike other medications, dogs don’t build up a tolerance to CBD, so you won’t need to keep increasing the amount as time goes on. Consistency is key, and it may take a couple of weeks to see results since CBD needs time to build up in your dog’s system.

If you’re using multiple CBD products (like oils and treats), you can split the daily dose between them. For example, if your dog needs 5 mg of CBD daily, you could give 2.5 mg in the morning as oil and another 2.5 mg in the evening as a treat. Just make sure the total daily dose stays the same.

Finally, remember that dogs respond differently to CBD, so what works for one might not work for another, even if they’re the same size. The best approach is to carefully watch your dog’s behavior and adjust the dosage based on their response.

Possible Risks of Giving CBD to Dogs

While CBD is generally considered safe for dogs, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of;

• Some dogs may become overly sleepy, especially if given too much CBD. 
• CBD can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. 
• You might notice your dog drinking more water than usual.
• In rare cases, CBD can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, which might make your dog feel lightheaded or lethargic.
• If given in high doses, CBD can sometimes lead to diarrhea or upset stomach.
• CBD can interact with certain medications your dog might be taking, such as painkillers or anti-seizure drugs. It can either increase or decrease the effectiveness of these medications.
• Not all CBD products are made the same. Some may contain harmful additives, THC (which is toxic to dogs), or incorrect amounts of CBD.

Always choose high-quality, vet-approved CBD products. While there’s promising research, long-term studies on the use of CBD in dogs are still limited. It’s important to keep this in mind when deciding to use CBD regularly for your dog.

Where To Buy Cbd For Dogs?

Suppose you’re considering CBD for your dog. In that case, finding high-quality, trustworthy products that can help support your pet’s health is important. One great option is to explore CBD products from ELYXR, which offer a variety of choices specifically made for dogs. Whether your dog struggles with anxiety, pain, inflammation, or other health concerns, ELYXR provides carefully crafted CBD products designed with pets in mind.

Before starting your dog on any CBD product, it’s a good idea to consult your vet to ensure it’s a safe option for their specific condition. ELYXR’s CBD products are designed to be both safe and effective, offering peace of mind when adding CBD to your pet’s routine. You can start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed, making it easier to adjust based on your dog’s response.

Head over to ELYXR to explore our dog-friendly CBD products and give your dog the support they need!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How Long Does Cbd Take To Work For Dogs?

The time it takes for CBD to work in dogs can vary. Some effects may be noticeable within 30 minutes to an hour, while other benefits, such as pain relief or reduced anxiety, may take a few days of consistent use to become evident.

Q. Can I Give My Dog Human Cbd Oil?

While it’s possible to give your dog human CBD oil, it’s not recommended. Human CBD products may contain ingredients or concentrations that are unsafe for dogs. Always use CBD products specifically formulated for pets.

Q. Is There A Difference Between Cbd Oil And Cbd Treats For Dogs?

The main difference is in the form of administration. CBD oil is usually administered under the tongue or mixed with food, allowing for more precise dosing. CBD treats are more convenient but may have a lower bioavailability, meaning the body absorbs less CBD.

Q. Will Cbd Make My Dog High?

No, CBD will not make your dog high. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t produce the high associated with marijuana. Most pet CBD products are derived from hemp and contain negligible amounts of THC.

Q. How Do I Choose The Best Cbd Product For My Dog?

When choosing a CBD product for your dog, look for products that are specifically formulated for pets, are third-party tested, and have clear labeling for dosage. Also, check that the product uses high-quality, organic ingredients and has positive customer reviews.

Q. How Do I Know If Cbd Is Working For My Dog?

You can gauge the effectiveness of CBD by observing changes in your dog’s behavior, activity level, and symptoms. Improvement in anxiety, pain levels, or mobility can indicate that the CBD is working. It’s often helpful to keep a journal of your dog’s progress.