If you are a dog owner, it’s difficult to watch your beloved pet suffer from anxiety, that can manifest as trembling, hiding, excessive barking, whining, or even attempts to flee the house. As dog owners increasingly seek natural solutions for their furry friends, dog CBD treats have emerged as a popular option to address issues like anxiety and stress. In this article we will explore the benefits, types, and what pet parents have to consider before using CBD treats to manage anxiety in dogs, ensuring your pet enjoys a calm and happy life.
What is CBD?
CBD is a naturally occurring cannabinoid, found in hemp (cannabis sativa) plants and is praised for its therapeutic benefits. CBD itself does not contain THC, the compound known for its psychoactive properties—the one that gets you “high.” CBD products are used to provide pain relief, reduce inflammation and stress.
By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), this compound plays a crucial role in maintaining balance in all mammals. Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system that plays a role in regulating various physiological processes. CBD interacts with the ECS by influencing the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which can help maintain balance (homeostasis) within the body.
CBD comes in several forms, including full spectrum CBD, which contains all cannabinoids including a trace amount of THC; broad spectrum CBD, which is free from THC; and CBD isolate, the purest form of CBD, free from other cannabinoids and compounds.
How can dogs benefit from CBD dog treats?
CBD’s health benefits are not just limited to humans. Dogs can also experience significant health improvements, particularly in managing anxiety, chronic pain, and skin health. CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system present in all mammals, helping regulate mood, pain, and inflammatory responses, thereby promoting holistic health. Here’s how CBD-infused treats can be beneficial for your furry friend:
Anxiety Relief
CBD is known for its calming effects. It can help alleviate anxiety caused by various stressors such as separation from owners, loud noises like thunderstorms or fireworks, and social anxiety around other dogs or people. Anxiety in dogs can manifest in various ways, including persistent barking, restlessness, aggressive behaviour, and symptoms of separation anxiety. CBD dog treats are effective in managing these symptoms by inducing a calming effect without harmful side effects. They are especially beneficial for dogs dealing with routine disruptions, loud noises, or separation from their owners.
Pain Management
CBD acts on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which helps regulate pain and inflammation. It’s beneficial for dogs dealing with chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other joint issues. Regular use of CBD treats can help manage inflammation and alleviate chronic pain, thereby improving mobility and enabling a more active lifestyle for older dogs or those with chronic conditions.
Types of CBD Dog Treats
Pet owners can choose from a variety of CBD-infused treats, including CBD soft chews and standard dog treats. These products make dosing easier as each treat contains a specific amount of CBD, ensuring pets get the right amount every time. Treats are not only convenient but also appealing to dogs, making them an easy addition to your dog’s daily routine.
How to choose the right CBD treats for your dog?
When selecting CBD treats for your dog, it’s essential to look for high-quality products made with natural ingredients. Opt for treats containing full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD to benefit from the ‘entourage effect’—where all compounds work synergistically—unless your dog is sensitive or allergic to certain cannabinoids, in which case the CBD isolate may be preferable.
Are CBD treats for dogs legal?
CBD is legal to consume for both people and dogs, as the United States Farm Bill in 2018 legalised cultivation of CBD and derivatives as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. However, laws can vary at the state level. Always ensure that the CBD treats you purchase are compliant with your local laws. Additionally, verify that the products are tested by third-party labs to ensure purity and potency.
What are the side effects of CBD dog treats for anxiety?
CBD dog treats for anxiety are generally well-tolerated, but they can have side effects. These side effects are typically mild, but it is essential for pet owners to be aware of them and monitor their pets when introducing CBD treats. Dogs may experience increased thirst due to reduced saliva production, so ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water. Higher doses of CBD can cause sedative effects or drowsiness, especially when treating anxiety. It is advised to start with the lower dose to find a balance that alleviate anxiety without causing excessive sedative effects.
Safety tips for using CBD dog treats for anxiety relief
- Start with a recommended dose of pet CBD dog bites and gradually increase over time to find the correct dose that relies anxiety without causing potential side effects.
- Consult with a veterinarian before you start giving your dog CBD chews or other products, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions or is on other medications.
- Always keep a close eye on your dog for any side effects like allergic reactions, especially when introducing CBD products.
- Always choose high quality CBD pet treats for dogs from reputable manufacturers, that do third party testing to ensure there is no THC or contamination in the products.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are CBD and hemp seed oil the same?
No, CBD and hemp seed oil are not the same, although they both come from the hemp plant. CBD oil is extracted from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant, which are rich in cannabidiol (CBD), while hemp seed oil is made by cold-pressing the seeds of the hemp plant. The seeds do not contain CBD or other cannabinoids. CBD oil is the appropriate choice if you are looking to address issues such as anxiety and pain. Hemp oil can be a beneficial supplement for overall health and nutrition but will not provide the same therapeutic effects as CBD oil.
Do CBD dog treats work?
CBD dog treats can be effective for managing a variety of conditions in dogs, especially anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Their effectiveness depends on factors like the quality of the product, proper dosing, and the specific condition being treated. Always choose high-quality, third-party tested products and consult with a veterinarian to determine the best approach for your dog’s needs.
Can I use regular CBD oil for my dog?
CBD products are safe for your furry friend if they are derived from hemp, which contains low levels of THC. Avoid products from the marijuana variety of cannabis, as they typically have high THC levels and can be toxic to animals. Ensure the CBD product is high-quality, third-party tested, and free from harmful additives.
Will CBD make my dog high?
No, CBD will not make your dog high. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, unlike THC, which causes a high. Ensure you use hemp-derived CBD products with 0.3% THC or less.
References:
Hunt, A. B., Flint, H. E., Logan, D. W., & King, T. (2023). A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10, 153.
RC Coelho, M.P., de OP Leme, F., A. Moreira, F., EMT Branco, S., M. Melo, M. and G. de Melo, E., 2021. Current review of hemp‐based medicines in dogs. Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 44(6), pp.870-882.
Di Salvo, A., Conti, M.B. and Della Rocca, G., 2023. Pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of cannabidiol in dogs: an update of current knowledge. Frontiers in veterinary science, 10, p.1204526.
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