by Anoop Nain, April 9, 2019

Several people these days have found that cannabidiol, abbreviated as CBD holds impressive potential for their health. The popularity of CBD can be estimated from the fact that the consumer sales of CBD are expected to reach around 1.8 billion U.S. dollars by 2022. But, is it beneficial for our canine friends too? How much CBD oil should I give my dog? Well, some recent researches definitely suggest so. Many dogs with mammary tumors, heart murmurs and arthritis have been successfully managed with the help of CBD oil.

The CBD market is booming and today, it is available in the form of topical-sprays, oral sprays and even dog treats. While you may want to try it immediately with your furry friend, it’s important to know the right way of giving it. Here’s what you should know, if you are giving CBD oil to your dog for the first time.

What is CBD?

Before you start to look into CBD for your dog/dogs, it is important to understand what it is and from where it is derived.

CBD or Cannabidiol is a Cannabinoid or Cannabis compound derived from cannabis plant. It is emerging as a promising therapy with significant health benefits.  While, humans have been using CBD for quite some time now, pet owners are a little wary of giving it to their dogs or Flemish Giant rabbits. But, some researches confirm that the absence of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) makes pure CBD safe for even pets to consume. Knowing how much CBD oil to give my dog, along with understanding your pet is the key to successful results.

Is CBD oil addictive?

Marijuana contains THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which leads to a type of euphoric or hazy mindset when ingested or smoked. Cannabis plant on the other hand contains only insignificant traces of THC. Also, in medicinal CBD, THC is fully removed, which makes pure CBD absolutely safe and non-addictive. So, based on its chemistry, it can be said that the CBD oil is not addictive. 100% pure cannabidiol does not produce any physical withdrawal symptoms; hence it is not physically addictive.

How does CBD oil work?

Endocannabinoid system, which is an interconnected chain of receptors, is found in the nervous system, brain, glands and other organs. This endocannabinoid system acts as body’s command centre for health and healing. All mammals, including – humans and dogs rely on endocannabinoid system to regulate the body’s immune response. CBD oil works by interacting with these receptors to act as a neuroprotective agent. It also helps regulate body’s immune response to promote good health and healing.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

This will largely depend on the age, condition and weight of your pet. Most importantly, you understanding your pet best. For instance, seniors that are showing signs of arthritis in dogs, but otherwise is in good health. We suggest to start with 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds of dog, three times daily for a week. This begins to build up the levels in their system. If you notice he is feeling better, then you can give him a twice daily dosing session. If he is not doing as well as before, then you can go back to a three times daily routine. It is all a trial and error. This is why knowing your pet best is the key to finding the sweet spot for your pet.

As more and more researches have come out in favor of CBD, the veterinarians have finally agreed on some of the most basic uses of CBD oil. Even the FDA has approved a drug derived from CBD recently.

For pets, CBD is available in the form of pills, in liquid form as well infused in treats. While, treats infused with CBD may sound completely harmless, it is still good to consider the recommended dosages and recognize the possible side effects associated with CBD. Side effects associated with CBD are very rare but they still have been reported. Some warning signs include – disorientation, vomiting, drowsiness or excitement after ingesting CBD. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is always good to consult your trusted vet.

Consult your vet

Even if you live in one of those areas where CBD is legal, it is always a good idea to consult your vet before administering it to your pet. While your vet won’t himself suggest it, he/she would definitely be happy to answer all your doubts and queries related to it. A holistic vet can also help you find answer to your queries.

Things to keep in mind when buying CBD

Although 100% pure CBD oil is said to be absolutely safe for pets, you should always be careful when buying CBD. Make sure the company you are buying CBD from is able to provide Certificate of Analysis, or COA. This way you will have peace of mind that the CBD product you are using is free of THC and contaminants, such as – heavy metals and fungicides. If a company refuses to provide you Certificate of Analysis, it should be seen as a red flag.

Which conditions can CBD oil be beneficial for?

CBD oil can be helpful in a multitude of health conditions in dogs, like:

• CBD can help the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• help the symptoms of Seizures and Epilepsy.
• CBD can help ease the pain and signs of arthritis in dogs
• CBD is used to alleviate nausea.
• used to aid comfort for dogs with cancer. According to some recent studies, CBD stops the growth of cancer cells.
• CBD can be used to mitigate hot spots and other skin and coat conditions.
• CBD is used to calm gastrointestinal issues

Although, CBD oil is beneficial in many health conditions, it’s important to remember that CBD oil isn’t a cure for the health conditions, it just alleviates their symptoms.

Wrap Up

Nothing can be more disheartening than seeing our furry friend not enjoying their life to the fullest. Sometimes, despite trying our best, they will still struggle with their health issues. Fortunately, CBD can help your pets through those issues, giving them the happy life they deserve. So, talk to your holistic vet today about the benefits of CBD oil for your pet and give your pet the happy and healthy life he/she deserves.

Want to make your own? Here’s a peanut butter dog treats recipe with CBD oil.