Everything you need to know about CBD and dogs

CBD is becoming more popular year by year.

18:46 16 August 2020

It is no accident, as it has many positive effects, most of which have already been demonstrated in humans. But what about pets? Can you give it to your dog? Are there any health issues that are positively affected by this substance? Are there any possible side effects of CBD? In this article, I am looking for answers to these questions.

 

What is CBD?

 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is probably known to everyone. However, there is another important compound in marijuana called Cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is not psychoactive. You won't get high from using it and it is not addictive. Because of this, it is not even a banned drug, and more and more people are taking dietary supplements that contain CBD. Otherwise, these products are made from hemp and not marijuana.

 

What about CBD and pets?

 

In particular, it is worth knowing that so far there is little evidence and research on whether CBD is effective and safe for dogs. However, the experience is similar to humans. This gives some hope. 

 

Benefits of CBD in dogs

 

CBD has been shown to be effective in the following conditions:

 

Arthritis

 

Arthritis is the most common inflammatory disease in pets. Research has shown that CBD reduced pain very well in dogs with arthritis.

 

Other pain

 

Of course, CBD is also effective for other pains.

 

Seizures

 

CBD has been tested for some time in connection with the treatment of seizures in humans. There is little research available on animals, but the results are encouraging.

 

Cancer

 

CBD has a good effect on cancer and the symptoms caused by chemotherapy. Here, too, a limited amount of research is available, hopefully not having to wait long for conclusive evidence.

 

Anxiety

 

Most people take CBD products to overcome anxiety. It has also been confirmed in dogs that CBD is effective against anxiety.

 

Other conditions

 

Other conditions that CBD can help with: inflammatory diseases, aggressive behavior, and loss of appetite. It is possible that this list may be further expanded in the future.

 

Is CBD safe for dogs?

 

Experts agree that CBD, unlike THC, is not harmful to human or dog health. This is confirmed by a WHO report too. The only thing worth paying attention to is that a dog with liver problems should not be given CBD products.

 

Are there any side effects of CBD?

 

As I mentioned, we have relatively little research on the subject. Therefore, it cannot be confirmed whether CBD causes side effects in animals. It can cause side effects and symptoms in humans and it can, therefore, be concluded that the situation is similar in dogs. These effects are: dry mouth, lowered blood pressure, and drowsiness. For safety, always start with a small dose.

 

What else should I consider?

 

Below you can see what to look for when giving CBD to your dog.

 

Do your research

 

Don’t buy the first product you find right away. Check out the online reviews. Investigate the distribution company. Choosing a good quality product from a reliable company is a success!

 

Keep it locked

 

Of course, it is forbidden for your dog to eat more than the specified amount. However, you can only avoid overdosing if you pay close attention and keep the product closed and locked. 

 

High quality products

 

As with all other products, it is true at CBD that you should avoid low-quality, low-cost versions. Make sure the supplement you choose is organic and does not contain any additives.

 

Forms

 

CBD products are available in many forms. Treats, oils, creams, these are just a few examples. Many say the oil version is the most effective.

 

Right dosage

 

The wisest thing to do is to introduce the whole treatment to your dog slowly and gradually. After all, every living thing reacts differently to different substances. If you do not notice a negative effect, you can increase the dose. Incidentally, research has shown that the effective dose is about 2mg per kilogram of body weight in dogs with arthritis.

 

Talk with your veterinarian

 

You should consult your veterinarian when trying any new supplements. The CBD is no exception. Your vet is very familiar with your dog’s health, breed, and will be able to give you proper advice.

 

Wrap it up

 

As you may have read, CBD could be a pretty promising supplement in the future. We still have little research available, but this is likely to change in the coming years. If you follow the above, there should be no problem.