CBD for Dogs: Is It Safe?

Could CBD oil be good for your dog?

We’re often asked, “Is CBD for dogs safe?” It’s a common question, and as a pet owner, it’s always good to be cautious and put your dog’s safety first. As the popularity of CBD has exploded over the last few years, it’s no surprise that pet owners want to know more about it.

Despite the growing popularity of cannabis and hemp, it can be difficult for pet owners to find answers about the safety of CBD. Some of the most common questions about CBD for pets include the following:

• What is CBD?
• Is CBD safe for dogs?
• What can CBD do for my dog?
• Will CBD get my dog high?

In the following article, we’ll do a deep dive into CBD and pets and answer whether or not CBD is safe for dogs. We’ll also explain what CBD is, how it works, and some of the potential benefits that CBD offers dogs.

What Is CBD?

Before we answer whether or not CBD is safe for dogs, let’s look at what CBD is and where it comes from.

Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two dominant cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD is nonintoxicating and does not produce the “high” that marijuana is known for. Rather, CBD has many medical uses, including anti-inflammatory and stress-relieving properties.

There are two types of cannabis: hemp and marijuana.

1. Hemp: Hemp is high in CBD and low in THC. The 2018 US Farm Bill made it legal at a federal level to grow hemp and produce goods from hemp, including CBD, as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. CBD products made from hemp are legal in all 50 states.
2. Marijuana: Marijuana is high in THC and low in CBD. THC is responsible for the euphoric high people experience when they use marijuana, and currently, marijuana is illegal at a federal level in the US.

Will CBD Products Get Your Dog High?

As we mentioned above, only marijuana contains high levels of THC. Therefore, CBD products for dogs that are sourced from hemp plants will not have high levels of THC and won’t get your dog high in any way.

It’s why understanding what you’re buying and how it was made is so important when it comes to CBD products.

Another essential thing to note is that hemp-derived CBD is not addictive. So, you don’t have to worry about your dog getting ‘hooked’ on CBD products, although once you start using them, you may continue to do so because of their benefits.

How Does CBD Interact with Your Dog?

Inside all of us, including dogs, is a complicated nerve-signaling system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cannabinoids, such as CBD, interact with the receptors CB1 and CB2 in the ECS.

The ECS plays a vital role in the body, with scientists believing it regulates bodily functions, including sleep, pain responses, mood, appetite, hormones, and reproductive functions. Its purpose is to restore balance and allow the body to maintain homeostasis.

The Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs

Now that we have explained a little about what CBD is and how it works, it’s time to look at some of the potential benefits that CBD may offer your dog.

CBD for Increased Mobility

As dogs age, it’s not uncommon for them to experience mobility issues. Climbing stairs, getting up and down off the couch, and even going for walks becomes more difficult. Many dog owners give their pets CBD to help increase mobility, reduce inflammation, and improve flexibility.

CBD for Pain

Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine if your dog is in pain. Dogs are well-known to be good at hiding any discomfort they’re experiencing. Typically, by the time you notice your dog is experiencing pain, it has already progressed to a severe problem. The last thing any dog owner wants to see is their dog in distress. CBD can help to support a healthy inflammatory response in the body that could assist with soreness while your dog recovers from an injury.

CBD for Stress

Stress can affect dogs just like it affects people. There are various reasons why a dog may experience stress, including situational anxiety, separation anxiety, and even changes or disruptions to their routine. CBD is known to help with stress, calm nerves, and promote relaxation. If you have a dog that struggles when you leave or panics during storms and fireworks, then CBD could potentially help.

CBD for Wellness

Just like we take vitamins for overall health and wellness, CBD can benefit your dog’s immune system. In addition to supporting the immune system, CBD could also support normal cardiovascular and neurological functions, overall long-term health, and mental and physical well-being.

Is CBD for Dogs Safe?

CBD is non-toxic and is perfectly safe for your dog as long as your CBD products are derived from hemp, not marijuana. However, it’s important to note that there are some common side effects that dog owners have reported, but not all dogs will experience them. In addition, no two pets are the same, and how they react to CBD can vary.

When you first give your dog CBD, start with a low dose and gradually increase it over time while monitoring your pet for any side effects.

Some of the possible side effects of CBD in dogs include:

• Dry mouth
• Slight lethargy
• Lowered blood pressure
• Diarrhea and vomiting

If you notice any of these side effects, try reducing the amount of CBD you’re giving your dog or spreading out the frequency of dosages.

CBD for Dogs: Conclusion

There you go, everything you wanted to know about CBD, including whether CBD is safe for dogs. We must note that no two dogs are the same, and how they react will vary depending on the dog and the hemp products you choose.

If you would like to learn more about how you can purchase the best hemp strains for growing CBD-rich plants, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. Our friendly and professional team is standing by to assist you.

Have you used CBD for your dog? How did it help? Let us know in the comment section below! While you’re here, check out our collection of premium feminized CBD hemp seeds.