Want to get on board the cannabidiol (CBD) pet wellness train but aren’t sure how it will affect your dog? Here at Companna, we want to make sure you are fully educated. So, read on below to find out.   

What should I know about CBD?

CBD is a naturally occurring substance found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive in the sense that it doesn’t get you or your dog high and doesn’t cause any feeling of intoxication. 

What are the benefits for CBD?

We know for sure that CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is responsible for maintaining homeostasis. Meaning bringing physiological systems into balance.

Here are some of the ways that CBD may benefit dogs: 

It may relieve inflammation issues

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are well-known. It is believed that CBD has this anti-inflammatory effect because they interact with immune receptor cells. The receptor CBD interacts with is called CB2 (cannabinoid 2 receptor). This helps regulate different types of immune responses, including anti-inflammatory ones.   

A European Journal of Pharmacology study suggests that the ECS plays an integral role in inflammation management, and as mentioned before, CBD interacts with the ECS and increases the efficiency of the cell-signaling system.

This could mean that it could help with a number of different inflammatory issues. CBD is also considered to have anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce inflammatory pain, common in diseases like arthritis.   

It may provide a sense of calm

CBD may be effective for relieving anxiety and stress, both of which are common in dogs. There are several studies, like this one, that suggest that CBD is able to help soothe several different kinds of stress and anxiety. 

Possible side effects of CBD for dogs

As mentioned earlier, there isn’t much scientific data about using CBD for dogs. When considering what kind of side effects your dog may experience, the info is mainly based on side effects experienced by humans.

The World Health Organization says that CBD is safe for humans and generally doesn’t cause any side effects. The side effects usually occur when a person is using a low-quality CBD product, over-consuming it, or have a sensitivity to CBD.

This side effects include things like nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and diarrhea.

In order to avoid the side effects of CBD, make sure that you properly dose the CBD you are giving to your dog. Start with a low dose and increase it gradually if necessary. Keep a watch on your dog to see if they are acting differently.  

How to choose a CBD product for your dog

For starters, you can check if a product is tested by an independent lab and has a certificate of analysis. This information is usually available on the company’s website and on the product as well. These certificates signify whether or not the product has been tested for CBD, THC, and other cannabinoid content.

Watch out for products containing higher levels of THC, because The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) considers THC to be a toxic substance for both cats and dogs.

It takes a fair amount of THC for it to be deadly, but it is still very dangerous to give to your pet no matter what.   

The best way to give your dog CBD

There are several ways of adding CBD to your dog’s diet. There are CBD-infused treats that you can buy to give your dog. Not every time though, because you may end up giving too much CBD to your dog.

CBD oil is another option; it contains a carrier oil, usually hemp or coconut, which our dogs love. You can simply place the desired number of drops on a spoon for your dog to lick. You can apply a few drops of CBD on their gums. You can add a few drops of CBD oil in their food, or you can use CBD oil to make dog treats for your dog.

No matter how you choose to give your dog CBD, you need to make sure that you are giving your dog the right amount of CBD.

The legality of CBD

The legality of CBD for humans is an entirely different matter that at of dogs and animals. Hemp-derived CBD containing up to 0.3% THC is legal in most of the 50 states of the United States. This is because these products are made from hemp and not marijuana. Hemp is federally legal in the United States, as is its products.

Marijuana is still federally illegal, so it is likely that it and its products are illegal in your state. Some states have legalized marijuana, but not many, and it is unlikely that your vet would be willing to tell you to give your dog marijuana-derived CBD.

Conclusion

Before choosing any CBD product, be sure to consult a veterinarian to see if CBD is the right choice for your dog and check your state laws about CBD use. Be sure to only buy CBD of the highest quality, that has been tested properly.

If the veterinarian and the state give you the green light to use CBD for your dog, then make sure to dose it properly. Start with a low dose and increase the dosage weekly or bi-weekly if you think it is necessary. If you are careful and smart about your dog’s dosage, you may seem some incredible improvements in your dog’s health.

If you’re looking for a good place to buy your dog’s CBD from, you’re in the right place! You can find all the best pet CBD products here on the Companna website. Check them out!