When it comes to human health, we’re beginning to gain a greater understanding of CBD’s many claimed benefits as more and more studies are performed on it. What’s not discussed nearly as often is how CBD affects pets, specifically dogs, let alone whether or not it is safe for them to consume in the first place. Plus, a lot of the information out there is rather vague and can be hard to understand.

Naturally, you want to do the absolute best thing for your beloved furry friend. So, what exactly do you need to learn about CBD and pets before your dog gives it a try? Together we will go over everything you need to know about giving it to your dog, that way you can be fully prepared.

What is CBD anyway?

CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is a particular chemical compound that’s found naturally in cannabis plants (marijuana and hemp). There are many different chemical compounds that are found in cannabis. However, the CBD compound carries many of the medicinal benefits that medical cannabis has been found to offer.

CBD typically comes in the form of oil, but humans can ingest CBD tincture, pills, gummies, and other edible arrangements. When it comes to this product for dogs, the products tend to be things like oils, treats, foods, and topicals. The oil for dogs can also be rubbed into the pads of the feet of your dog.

CBD is not psychoactive

One of the first things that you need to know about it is that it won’t cause a high. A completely different compound called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) causes the psychoactive effects of marijuana that make the user feel high. Most of it that you’ll find available for purchase comes from hemp, which does not contain THC.

CBD’s legality

CBD can be purchased in most of the U.S. states as of December 20, 2018. Although marijuana is still a Schedule 1 controlled substance, hemp can now be farmed as a regular agricultural crop because of the Farm Bill signed into law in 2018.

How safe is CBD for dogs?

You’ve probably heard of or seen those videos in which dogs were wrongfully given THC, causing them to become disoriented and frenzied. Indeed, veterinarians agree that your dog should not consume any THC at all.

However, when it comes to CBD, we still don’t know much about how it affects animals, but so far thigs appear positive. Most veterinarians and professionals classify CBD tincture as “most likely safe.” Although no adverse effects have been reported by any vets or pet owners, not enough studies have found conclusive evidence on CBD for dog health.

But this doesn’t mean that there is no research on this area. There are few different ongoing studies that will reveal a lot more to us when they are completed. The initial results are quite impressive, but the research has not provided enough data just yet to say conclusively whether it is safe for your dog. It’s best to approach this carefully and talk with your vet before giving your dog any of it.

Potential benefits of CBD for dog health

When it comes to human health, CBD has shown to potentially treat several health ailments, including pain, anxiety, appetite loss, inflammation, and epilepsy. These studies have mainly been focused on humans and not dogs. However, dogs, like people, have an Endocannabinoid System, which consists of the receptors that CBD interacts with. This suggests that CBD could have similar effects on dogs as it does on people. So, CBD may be able to help your dog with several different things.

How to give your dog CBD tincture

Pet CBD is available as an oil or in gummies, tablets, powders, and chews. Some companies even make toys that have CBD in them! That being said, using a tincture or an oil is widely accepted as the best way to consume some for both dogs and humans because the compound is typically in its purest form. These softgels also makes it much easier to control the dosage you give to your dog.

It’s pretty likely that your dog won’t like the flavor of CBD. So, you may have to find some tricky ways to give it to your pet. Many CBD products use fish oil to improve the taste. Here are a few of the most popular and effective ways to give it to your dog:

• Add it to a treat. Add a few drops of tincture to the outside of your pup’s favorite treat. You will likely want to opt for strongly flavored treats like jerky or dog biscuits to mask the earthy flavor.

• Find some CBD pet products they may like. If you can’t give your dog this product directly, it may be best to try out treats that are already infused with oil.

• Add some to your dog’s food. Many dogs aren’t picky eaters, so you may be able to just put it in their food.

• Give it directly. If your dog is sensitive to even the slightest change of taste in their food, it might be best to apply CBD directly in your dog’s mouth via the softgel. One of the most effective ways to give CBD oil to your dog is by applying to the inside of their jowls.

Does pet CBD have side effects?

Again, it’s important to note that CBD research for pets is still ongoing. However, there are some side effects that may occur with too high of a dosage:

• Tremors

• Low blood pressure

• Dryness of the mouth

• Extreme drowsiness

Contact your vet right away for proper advice and care if you notice your dog showing any signs of these symptoms.

To sum up

While CBD’s human benefits have been looked at often in studies, there is preliminary evidence that shows it is useful for dogs and cats. Many dog owners claim that it has helped their beloved pets with pain management, anti-inflammation, and reducing anxiety and seizures.

Overall, it is considered to be safe. If you think your four-legged friend could benefit from CBD tincture, consult with your vet, and give it a try. Learn more about CBD oil for dogs by clicking here.