What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is a product made from cannabidiol (CBD), a compound in the hemp plant. CBD is one of the many cannabinoids present in the cannabis plant, but unlike THC, it’s non-psychoactive. This means it doesn’t produce the “high” associated with marijuana use.
CBD oil is made by extracting the CBD from the hemp flower and then diluting it with carrier oil, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. The resulting oil is used for a variety of purposes, including pain relief, reducing anxiety and depression, alleviating cancer-related symptoms, and improving overall health and wellness.
Due to its possible health benefits, CBD oil has grown in popularity recently, and it is legal in many countries as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis). It is crucial to remember that additional research is required to establish the safety and effectiveness of CBD oil because its long-term effects are not yet fully established.
How Does CBD Oil for Dogs Work?
CBD can affect dogs in various ways. Similar to humans, dogs have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which controls a number of physiological processes like mood, hunger, and pain perception. CBD interacts with the ECS by binding to its receptors, which can lead to a range of effects.
One of the most common uses of CBD for dogs is to reduce anxiety and stress. CBD can help calm dogs down in stressful situations, such as during thunderstorms or fireworks, or when visiting the vet.
CBD can also be used to manage pain and inflammation in dogs. It is thought to function by lowering body inflammation, which might lessen pain brought on by ailments like arthritis.
CBD has also been shown to have anti-seizure properties and can be used to manage seizures in dogs with epilepsy.
It’s crucial to remember that additional research is required to establish the safety and effectiveness of CBD use in dogs because the long-term consequences are not yet fully established. It’s also important to consult with a veterinarian before giving CBD to your dog, as they can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and potential interactions with other medications.
How Can CBD Oil Help with Dog Health?
CBD oil has been studied for its potential benefits in managing several health problems in dogs, including:
Anxiety and stress: CBD oil can help calm dogs down in stressful situations, such as during thunderstorms, fireworks, or when visiting the vet.
Pain and inflammation: CBD oil can reduce inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis.
Seizures: CBD oil can be used to control seizures in dogs that have epilepsy because it has been found to have anti-seizure characteristics.
Nausea and vomiting: CBD oil may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with certain conditions, such as chemotherapy or gastrointestinal issues.
Skin conditions: CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching, redness, and other symptoms of skin conditions in dogs.
Appetite stimulation: CBD oil may help stimulate appetite in dogs who have lost their appetite due to certain conditions or medications.
It’s crucial to remember that additional research is required to completely comprehend the advantages and disadvantages of using CBD oil to treat certain health issues in dogs.
How to Calculate the Dosage for CBD Oil for Dogs
Calculating the appropriate dosage of CBD oil for dogs can be tricky, as it can vary depending on various factors, including the dog’s weight, individual sensitivity to CBD, and the desired effects. Here are some general guidelines that can be used as a starting point for calculating the appropriate dosage:
- Determine the concentration of CBD in the product: CBD oil products can vary in concentration, so it’s important to check the label to determine the amount of CBD per millilitre of oil.
- Calculate the dosage based on the dog’s weight: Starting with 0.2 to 0.5 mg of CBD per pound of body weight per day is the advised dose as a general rule of thumb. So, for example, a 25-pound dog would need a dosage of 5 to 12.5 milligrams of CBD per day. This is the method used by most dog CBD oil dosage calculators.
However, our most recommended approach is to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it. It’s safer to start with a low dosage and gradually increase it until the desired effects are achieved. This gives you the time to evaluate your dog’s behaviour, it can help minimize the risk of side effects and help determine the appropriate dosage.
Possible Side Effects of CBD on Dogs
Dog owners should be aware of the following potential adverse effects even though CBD oil is generally safe for dogs:
Dry mouth: CBD may cause less saliva to be produced, which may cause a dry mouth and more thirst.
Drowsiness: Some dogs may become sleepy or lethargic after taking CBD oil.
Lowered blood pressure: CBD can lower blood pressure, which may cause dogs to become dizzy or lightheaded.
Diarrhea: In some cases, CBD can cause digestive issues such as diarrhea or vomiting.
Changes in appetite: CBD may increase or decrease appetite in dogs, depending on the individual.
It’s important to start with a low dose of CBD and monitor your dog’s response carefully. If you notice any side effects or changes in behaviour, stop giving the CBD oil and consult with a veterinarian. Additionally, it’s important to choose high-quality CBD oil specifically formulated for pets, as human CBD products may contain ingredients that are not safe for dogs.
Risks of Using CBD Oil for Dogs
While CBD oil is generally considered safe for dogs, there are some potential risks associated with its use, including:
- Lack of regulation: The CBD industry is not well-regulated, which means that some products may not contain the amount of CBD advertised or may contain contaminants that could be harmful to dogs.
- Interaction with medications: CBD can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, and can increase or decrease their effectiveness. It’s important to talk to a veterinarian before giving CBD oil to a dog who is taking any medications.
- Allergic reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to CBD or the carrier oil used in the product, which could cause an allergic reaction.
- Legal issues: The legality of CBD oil for pets varies depending on where you live. It’s important to check local laws and regulations before giving CBD oil to your dog.
- Unknown long-term effects: While CBD oil is generally considered safe for short-term use, the long-term effects are not yet fully understood. More research is needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of using CBD oil in dogs.
Besides CBD Oil, What Other CBD Products for Dogs Are There?
There are several types of CBD products available on the market, including:
- CBD oil: This is the most common form of CBD for both humans and pets. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and mixing it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or hemp seed oil. CBD oil can be given directly to a dog or mixed with their food.
- CBD treats: CBD can also be infused into dog treats, making it a convenient and tasty way to give CBD to your dog. CBD treats come in various flavours and dosages and are an easy way to give your dog a consistent dose of CBD.
- CBD topicals: CBD can also be applied topically to a dog’s skin, where it may help alleviate skin conditions, such as itching and redness. CBD topicals can be in the form of balms, salves, or sprays.
- CBD capsules: CBD can also be encapsulated, making it easy to give a precise dose of CBD to your dog. CBD capsules can be given directly to a dog or mixed with their food.
- CBD tinctures: CBD tinctures are similar to CBD oil, but they are made with alcohol instead of carrier oil. They are typically more potent than CBD oil and are often used by people, but they can also be used for pets.
The Best CBD Oil for Dogs in Canada
When choosing a CBD oil for your dog, it’s important to look for CBD products specifically formulated for them, as they are generally made with lower concentrations of CBD and may contain other ingredients that are safe for dogs.
Additionally, it’s important to choose a product that has been third-party tested, as this ensures that the product contains the amount of CBD advertised and is free of contaminants.
It’s also important to choose a product made with high-quality ingredients and a carrier oil that is safe for dogs, such as coconut oil or hemp seed oil. Ultimately, the best CBD oil for dogs in Canada will depend on the individual needs of your dog, so be sure to do your due research.
