As with any pet welfare trend, when it comes to CBD oil for dogs, there is a lot of information circulating on the internet, and it's hard to know what's accurate and what's exaggerated. Of course, you want to do what's best for your dog, which leads to the question: What do I need to know about CBD oil for dogs?
Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC's chief veterinary officer, explains what CBD oil is, what it brings to dogs, as well as its safety concerns and potential side effects.
What is CBD oil?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. According to Dr. Klein, it is essential to note that in most cases, CBD oil does not contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties. In fact, most CBD products are derived from hemp and not marijuana.
How does CBD affect dogs?
At present, no official studies have been done on the effects of CBD on dogs. What scientists do know is that cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help maintain the body's balance and keep it in a normal state of health.
What dog health problems can CBD oil treat?
While there is no definitive scientific data on the use of CBD oil to treat dogs, anecdotal evidence provided by dog owners suggests that it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, and help control seizures.
According to Dr. Klein, CBD is also used because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, and possible anti-cancer benefits, although there is no conclusive data on this use.
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study through colorado state university's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences to evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. The CHF hopes that this study will be the first to obtain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this disease.
Possible Side Effects of CBD in Dogs
While there is no scientific data on the side effects of using CBD in dogs, there are potential side effects based on how CBD affects humans. To minimize potential side effects, be sure to stick to the correct dosage.
- Dry mouth : Research has shown that CBD can decrease saliva production. For dogs, this is manifested by increased thirst.
- Low blood pressure : High doses of CBD are known to cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. Even if this drop is small, it can cause a brief feeling of dizziness.
- Drowsiness : Dog owners have used CBD to treat anxiety. The calming effect of CBD can also cause mild drowsiness, especially when using higher doses.
Risks of Using CBD Oil for Dogs
The safety and risks of using CBD for dogs have not yet been studied. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved CBD and has not published a dosage chart. Therefore, we do not know what dose would be toxic. Any medication or supplement carries the risk of a reaction. It is always advisable, when giving your dog something new, to start with small amounts and then closely monitor the effects. And always check with your veterinarian first.
CBD Products Available on the Animal Market
If you and your veterinarian decide to try CBD as a treatment for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind when buying CBD oil. Not all oils are created equal; you'll want a high-quality CBD oil to have a better chance of it working.
- Look for organic products. If CBD oil is not organic, it should at least not contain pesticides, fungicides or solvents.
- Don't just buy based on price. Higher quality and purity are usually associated with a higher cost. A cheaper option could contain toxic substances such as pesticides, herbicides or heavy metals. Make sure your CBD oil is free of additives.
- Get the detailed analysis of the product. The manufacturer must provide a certificate attesting to the amount of CBD contained in the product. Many CBD products contain only small amounts of CBD. You should also make sure that the product contains little or no THC.
- Buy CBD in liquid form. You can buy dog treats that contain CBD, but the best form to administer is an oil or tincture. This way, you can adjust your dog's dose drip by drop.
Do not hesitate to consult our comparison of the best CBD oils for dogs and cats to learn more.
The trend towards well-being through CBD
Why do we hear so much about CBD oil today? Dr. Klein highlights the legalization of marijuana in many places, which has sparked interest in the potential benefits of marijuana-related products. "It is likely that, in the coming years, interest in CBD will continue and research into its use and effectiveness will multiply," he says.
See also: Questions / Answers on CBD and animals