Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
By now, many pet owners have heard of CBD and its potential health benefits and how it may help with many issues common to our canine companions.
Our four-legged best friends deserve the best – and if we take CBD, we want our dogs to be able to enjoy it as well! However, is CBD safe for dogs? How does it work, and what can it do for our pups? Here’s what you need to know!
How CBD Works in Dogs
CBD (cannabidiol) can interact with the endocannabinoid system in dogs, similar to its interaction in humans [1]. The endocannabinoid system is present in all mammals, including dogs, and plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, like regulating moods.
When CBD is administered to dogs, it interacts with receptors in the endocannabinoid system, primarily the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD does not bind strongly to these receptors but modulates their activity and influences the release of other receptors, such as serotonin.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
Stress and Anxiety Reduction
CBD may have anxiolytic properties, meaning it may help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs [2]. It may promote relaxation and calmness, making it useful for dogs with separation anxiety, noise phobias, or general anxiety. Check out our blog to learn more about CBD and dog anxiety!
Pain Management
CBD is known as a natural pain reliever with anti-inflammatory properties. It may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation, especially in dogs with dysplasia, arthritis, or inflammatory disorders[3].
Nausea Reduction
CBD can stimulate appetite in dogs, making it beneficial for dogs experiencing appetite loss due to certain medical conditions. It may also help alleviate nausea and vomiting in dogs, particularly those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy[4].
Prevention of Seizures
CBD has been studied for its potential anticonvulsant properties. It may help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs with epilepsy or other seizure disorders [5]. Learn more about the benefits of CBD for dogs and other animals!
How to Administer CBD to Dogs
While some dogs are gluttons and will eat anything, others might be picky eaters. The best way for dog owners to administer CBD is to get some yummy chews or add drops of CBD oil into food, treats, or directly into the mouth.
Here’s more on how you can get some CBD down your pet’s throat. Be sure to speak to your veterinarian about administering the proper dosage, and remember that CBD kicks in about 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, so don’t overdo it.
CBD for Dogs: Is it Safe?
CBD has proven safe for healthy dogs, even after long-term usage [6]. When starting your pooch on CBD, begin with a low dose and slowly increase it as needed. Watch closely for side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, or a decreased appetite. Stop using CBD immediately and consult your vet if you notice any adverse reactions.
Before using CBD for your dog, always consult your veterinarian.
How to Choose a Safe CBD Product for Dogs
It’s crucial to choose high-quality CBD products specifically formulated for dogs. Look for CBD products that have been third-party tested with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for purity, potency, and the absence of harmful contaminants.
Additionally, ensure the CBD is derived from hemp plants grown using organic practices to minimize the risk of exposure to pesticides and other harmful substances. Be absolutely sure that the CBD product contains less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) as required by federal law in the US, as THC can be toxic to dogs in high amounts.
Before giving CBD to your dog, it’s best to consult a veterinarian knowledgeable about cannabis use in animals. They can assess your dog’s health condition, medications, and potential interactions or contraindications. A veterinarian can also provide guidance on proper dosage and administration methods and monitor your dog’s response to CBD.
Buy CBD for Dogs Online at NuLeaf Naturals
Ready to spoil your pup? Check out our top-quality products like Calming CBD Dog Chews and CBD Dog Chews for Mobility from NuLeaf Naturals.
In addition, our best-selling Pet CBD Oil contains tons of beneficial cannabinoids, is easily administered, and can be added to food, treats, or directly into the mouth.
All our CBD products at NuLeaf are made from organic hemp plants grown in Colorado and harvested at their peak. We have stringent standards for the farming and production process to ensure the highest quality of products. Your furry friend deserves the best care in the world, and will thank you for it!
Sources:
[1] Grinspoon, Peter. “The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious” https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569
[2] Hunt, Alysia B. G. and Hannah E. Flint, Darren W. Logan, and Tammie King. “A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9992179/
[3] Miranda-Cortés, Agatha and Daniel Mota-Rojas, Nadia Crosignani-Outeda, Alejandro Casas-Alvarado, Julio Martínez-Burnes, Adriana Olmos-Hernández, Patricia Mora-Medina, Antonio Verduzco-Mendoza, and Ismael Hernández-Ávalos. “The role of cannabinoids in pain modulation in companion animals” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9848446/
[4] Parker, Linda A. and Erin M Rock, and Cheryl L Limebeer. “Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165951/
[5] Garcia, Gabriel A. and Stephanie Kube, Sheila Carrera-Justiz, David Tittle, and Joseph J. Wakshlag. “Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9372618/
[6] Bradley, Sophie and Scott Young, Anne Marie Bakke, Lucy Holcombe, Daniel Waller, Alysia Hunt, Kathleen Pinfold, Phillip Watson, and Darren W. Logan. “Long-term daily feeding of cannabidiol is well-tolerated by healthy dogs” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9533147/