What You Should Know About CBD Oil for Dogs

When it comes to CBD oil for dogs, as with any other pet wellness craze, there is a lot of information flying around the internet, and it's tough to know what's true and what's not. Of course, you want to do what's best for your dog, so what do I need to know about CBD oil for dogs?

Dr. Jerry Klein, the AKC's Chief Veterinary Officer, explains what CBD oil is, what it does for dogs, and what safety concerns and potential adverse effects it may have.

What Is CBD Oil and How Does It Work?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural compound found in cannabis and hemp. It's important to note, according to Dr. Klein, that CBD oil does not usually include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the euphoric component in marijuana. In fact, the majority of CBD products are made from hemp rather than marijuana.

What Effect Does CBD Have on Dogs?

There hasn't been a scientific study on how CBD affects dogs yet. Cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral neurological systems, which assist maintain bodily equilibrium and keep it in a normal healthy state, according to scientists.

What Dog Health Issues Can CBD Oil Help With?

While there is no solid scientific evidence that CBD can relieve pain, especially neuropathic pain, or assist control seizures in dogs, there is anecdotal evidence from dog owners that it can.

CBD is also utilized for anti-inflammatory characteristics, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, hunger stimulation, anti-anxiety effects, and maybe anti-cancer advantages, according to Dr. Klein, though there is no definitive proof on this usage.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is funding a study at Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences to see if CBD can help dogs with epilepsy who are resistant to other treatments. The CHF expects that this will be the first study to gather scientific data on CBD's usage in dogs suffering from this illness.

CBD's Potential Negative Effects on Dogs

While there is no scientific evidence of CBD's adverse effects in dogs, there are possible side effects based on how CBD affects humans. Make sure you're getting the right dosage to avoid any unpleasant side effects.

Dry mouth: CBD has been proven in studies to reduce saliva production. This might reflect in increased thirst in dogs.

High dosages of CBD have been shown to induce a brief reduction in blood pressure. Even though the dip is minor, it may cause light-headedness for a brief period of time.

Drowsiness: CBD has been used to treat anxiety in dogs. CBD's relaxing effect might produce sleepiness in some people, especially when consuming greater doses.

CBD Oil for Dogs: What Are the Consequences?

The safety and dangers of CBD use in dogs have yet to be investigated. CBD has not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. When giving your dog something new, it's always a good idea to start with minimal doses and then closely monitor the results. Also, please consult your veterinarian before taking any action.

CBD products are available on the market.

If you and your veterinarian decide to explore CBD as a treatment for your dog, there are a few things to consider before buying CBD oil.

Look for organic products. If the CBD oil isn't organic, it should at the very least be free of pesticides, fungicides, and solvents.

Don't just shop for the lowest price. Higher prices are usually connected with higher quality and purity. Toxic compounds such as pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals may be present in a less expensive option. Check to see if your CBD oil has any additions.

Get the report. A certificate certifying the level of CBD in the product should be provided by the manufacturer. Many CBD products only have trace quantities of CBD in them. You'll also want to make sure the product has little or no THC.

CBD is available as a liquid. You can buy CBD dog treats, but the ideal way to give it to your dog is in the form of an oil or tincture. You can modify your dog's medication drop by drop this way.

CBD's Health Benefits

What's the big deal with CBD oil these days? The legalization of marijuana in many places, according to Dr. Klein, has sparked interest in the possible health advantages of marijuana-related products. “In the future years, we are likely to see continued interest in CBD, as well as an increase in study into its uses and efficacy,” he predicts.