When your four-legged best friend is in pain, you want to do everything you can to help them feel better. Recent years have seen the rise of CBD dog treats, but how do you know which is the best CBD dog treat? And do they really work? This guide to CBD oil for dogs can get you started.
HOW DOES CBD OIL WORK FOR DOGS?
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a compound found in both marijuana and hemp plants. Unlike the compounds delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC found in marijuana, CBD products do not produce the intoxicating effects commonly associated with smoking or ingesting marijuana.
CBD oil is extracted from a plant’s flowers, leaves, and stalks, and has a level of THC that is in compliance with the 2018 Farm Bill (0.3% or less).
Similar to the way it works in humans, CBD binds to endocannabinoid receptors in a dog’s central and peripheral nervous systems. The nervous system receives and interprets signals from the body related to pain, anxiety, and other imbalances. In this way, CBD molecules act as chemical molecules and signal cellularly to support analgesic properties, decrease inflammation and overactive stress responses.
The most common uses of CBD oil for dogs is for arthritis and cancer pain, with other emerging research in preventing seizures.
BENEFITS OF CBD OIL FOR DOGS
Because the focus of CBD oil research has been on humans, there are just a few studies of the benefits of CBD oil for dogs. The research has been very promising and there are more studies in progress.
A 2018 study by researchers from Ithaca College and Colorado State University found that just 2mg of CBD oil administered twice daily increased comfort and mobility in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis. For all dogs in the study, there were no reported side effects.
Another 2018 study by Colorado State University saw a reduction in frequency of seizures in 89% of dogs who suffered from epilepsy.
The American Kennel Club has also recognized substantial anecdotal evidence from dog owners that CBD may be effective in treating the following conditions:
- Anxiety
- Low appetite
- Cancer pain
- Nausea
- Inflammation
- Cardiac conditions
- Gastrointestinal conditions
Few and rare side effects have been reported with CBD oil for dogs. The most common side effects include dry mouth, low blood pressure, and drowsiness.
It’s important to note that marijuana products should never be given to dogs, as it can result in a condition referred to as marijuana toxicity. The level of THC in full spectrum CBD oil for dogs is very low and generally recognized as safe, but talk to your vet about any concerns you have.
HEMP OIL VS. CBD OIL FOR DOGS
While hemp oil (or hemp seed oil) is extracted only from the seeds of the cannabis plant, CBD oil comes from the whole plant. This whole-plant extraction means that CBD oil not only has the properties of CBD but also comes with a host of other flavonoids and terpenes, most of which are found on trichomes in the sticky, resin-covered buds of the plant. Researchers are finding that part of what makes CBD oil effective is the entourage effect – all of these compounds working together.
Hemp seed oil may be effective for some topical applications, but does not contain CBD.
Serving Sizes
Before treating your dog with CBD oil, it’s important to have them evaluated by their vet. A qualified veterinarian can help determine the best dosage and monitor your dog’s progress.
How much CBD oil you give your dog depends on a variety of factors. The most important of these is how the CBD oil is delivered. There are generally two main ways: edible treats and tinctures.
1. CBD DOG TREATS
CBD dog treats are the easiest (and tastiest).
Always follow your vet’s recommendations, but general treatment guidelines for CBD dog treats at 2mg each are as follows.
- Dogs under 10 pounds: one treat daily
- Dogs 10-25 pounds: two treats daily
- Dogs 25-50 pounds: three treats daily
- Dogs over 50 pounds: four treats daily
If you have a larger dog, you may want to consider a tincture instead.
2. TINCTURES
If you are treating your dog on a budget or your dog is very large, a CBD tincture for dogs is a good option. This can be trickier to administer, but most dogs will not notice the natural, slightly nutty flavor of the tincture when it is combined with their food.
The dosage will vary with a tincture. Talk to your vet for specific dosing guidelines for your dog.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CBD DOG TREATS AND TINCTURES
Your dog’s health depends on the quality of the products you give them. Seed2System sources seeds directly from High Grade Hemp Seed who works closely with Colorado State University to develop their seed varieties. We track our seeds from the moment they go in the ground all the way to the consumer. We also test our products constantly to make sure that our CBD oil doesn’t exceed mandated THC levels but still delivers the amount of medicine your dog needs.
Lower-quality CBD oils use chemicals or solvents to extract CBD, damaging the plant’s compounds and compromising its effectiveness. At Seed2System, we use vapor distillation to extract full-spectrum CBD oils. The vapor distillation process means that your CBD oil is 100% natural and preserves the plant’s terpenes and other compounds to enhance medicinal effects.
Our CBD dog treats and CBD tincture for dogs take advantage of this process to produce powerful healing treatments. Our CBD tincture for dogs, has real salmon for flavor and doesn’t add sweeteners, so you know your dog is getting the medicinal benefits without anything added.
At Seed2System, we know you want the best for your pet. If you have questions about your treatment options, or want to come visit our farms in Longmont, Colorado, get in touch today. Dogs welcome!
