Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs

CBD oil has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. You've likely heard about its use in humans, but did you know that it can also be used in dogs?  Scientific research on CBD oil is lacking, but anecdotal reports suggest that CBD oil may be beneficial for a number of canine health conditions, including arthritis, seizures, and anxiety.  Unlike marijuana, CBD oil is safe for dogs when used appropriately and does not produce a high.  CBD oil is available over the counter and is easily accessible in most states.  Purchasing CBD oil is federally legal as long as the product does not contain more than 0.3% THC.  Read on to learn more about CBD oil and how it may be used to help your dog.

About CBD Oil

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CBD is the common name for cannabidiol, a chemical extracted from cannabis plants.  Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not have psychoactive properties and does not cause a “high”.  CBD is extracted from hemp plants, which legally must contain less than 0.3% THC.  CBD is then added to a carrier oil, such as hemp oil or coconut oil, to make CBD oil.

Research on the use of CBD oil in both humans and dogs is lacking.  However, it is postulated that CBD may have a wide range of effects because it acts on the endocannabinoid system (ECS).  The ECS is present in all mammals and works with a series of cannabinoid receptors, transmitters, and enzymes to affect body functions such as metabolism, immune system, digestion, and more.  CBD is thought to act on the ECS to produce anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and anti-convulsant effects.     

It is important to note that CBD is not marijuana and does not contain THC.  Marijuana and related products containing THC should not be given to dogs.  THC intoxication in dogs can be severe and even life-threatening.  If your dog has ingested or inhaled a THC-containing product, seek veterinary care immediately.

CBD Oil for Dogs

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Anecdotally, CBD oil has been touted as a cure for a wide variety of conditions in dogs, including anxiety, digestive issues, skin conditions, chronic pain, seizures, and more. 

To date, there has been one clinical trial examining the efficacy of CBD oil in dogs.  In this study, it was determined that giving CBD oil orally at a dose of 2 mg/kg twice daily improved joint pain and activity levels in dogs with osteoarthritis.  Dog owners reported no side effects during the trial.  This study is encouraging because it demonstrates the potential anti-inflammatory and pain control effects of CBD oil in dogs.  More research is needed to determine whether CBD oil is efficacious for controlling pain and inflammation caused by other health conditions.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence for its use, CBD oil for dogs has been rapidly growing in popularity.  Pet owners have used CBD oil for a number of different canine health concerns, including seizures, anxiety, nausea, digestive upset, pain, loss of appetite, and itching due to allergies.  Many pet owners report significant improvement in their dogs’ symptoms after using CBD oil consistently.  

Side Effects of CBD in Dogs

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Most dogs tolerate CBD oil well and do not experience any side effects. Side effects are typically dose-related and are more likely to occur with higher doses of CBD oil.  To minimize the risk of side effects, it is recommended that you start your dog on a lower dose of CBD oil and gradually increase the dose over time until the desired effects are seen.  When side effects of CBD oil do occur, they can include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness

If your pet experiences side effects from a CBD product, stop giving the product and contact your veterinarian for further advice.

Reputable CBD products contain little to no THC.  Dogs are sensitive to the effects of THC and can become intoxicated even at low doses.  Symptoms of THC intoxication include:

  • Lethargy
  • Somnolence
  • Loss of coordination and balance
  • Vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Hyperactivity
  • Hypersalivation
  • Vocalization
  • Seizures
  • Coma

If your dog has ingested or inhaled a product containing THC, seek veterinary care immediately.

Canine Biologics CBD Oil

The CBD industry is not regulated, so it is important to choose a CBD product from a reputable company.  Good CBD products are safe, effective, and free from THC and contaminants.  

Canine Biologics CBD Oil for Dogs is a human-grade CBD oil that is tested by an independent laboratory and certified to contain 0.0% THC.  Canine Biologics CBD Oil for Dogs includes all natural ingredients and has also been tested for and is free from contaminants such as heavy metals, solvents, and mycotoxins.  This independent testing ensures that the CBD oil product your pet receives is safe and effective.  

Canine Biologics CBD Oil is available in three different concentrations to enable precise dosing based on your dog's weight.  The recommended dose of CBD oil is 0.33 mg to 1.0 mg per kilogram of body weight.  Canine Biologics CBD Oil for Dogs is available in three formulations: 0.42 mg/drop, 0.83 mg/drop, and 1.66 mg/drop.  This makes it easy to give your dog exactly the right dose of CBD oil every time.  For best results, administer the CBD oil under your dog's tongue.  If necessary, you can also mix the oil into your dog's food to facilitate administration. 

With continued administration, many pet owners report improvements in their pets' pain relief, anxiety, behavior, mobility, appetite, digestion, and more.  

CBD Oil: A New Canine Health Supplement 

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CBD oil's natural beneficial effects have led to it being used as a daily health supplement for many dogs throughout the United States.  Pet owners appreciate its ease of use and accessibility as an over the counter supplement.  Many dogs experience improvements in pain level, mobility, anxiety, seizures, and digestion while taking CBD oil, and few experience adverse effects.  Choosing the best CBD oil like Canine Biologics CBD Oil for Dogs will ensure that your dog receives the full beneficial effect of CBD oil in a product that is safe, pure, and appropriately dosed.  Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new medication or supplement for your dog.