As with any wellness trend, there’s been lots of buzz surrounding the use of CBD for dogs. This trend has become extremely popular in recent years, especially after the legalization of hemp products in 2018 by the passage of the Farm Bill.A simple Google search will turn up hundreds of articles related to this topic; it’s enough to overwhelm any pet-owner!So this article, we’re going to help you to be fully armed with all the information you need to know about giving your dog CBD oil, how it will effect them, and anything else you need to know about CBD for your dog.CBD Oil for Dogs; Is It Safe?One of the first things that may come to your mind when considering CBD treats for your dog is, “Are they safe??”First, let’s be clear about what CBD is.Hemp and marijuana are a type of Cannabis Sativa plants, which contain cannabinoid compounds.THC is the cannabinoid compound in marijuana that causes you to feel “high”. CBD, on the other hand, provides all the wellness benefits of the cannabis plant, without getting you “high.” CBD is considered a dietary supplement by the Food and Drug Administration.CBD is absolutely safe for your dog, as it is a non-toxic and naturally derived compound.How Does CBD Oil Affect Dogs?Cannabis oil can be used to treat seizures, nausea, stress, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, symptoms of cancer, and gastrointestinal issues, among other health conditions in dogs, according to PetMD.While there have been significantly more studies on the CBD benefits in humans, it does show promising results for dogs. What scientists DO know is that cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems. This helps maintain balance, and aids in keeping their bodies in a normal and healthy state.Unlike some traditional pain medicine for dogs, medical cannabis has no life-threatening side effects, with proper dosage.Possible Side Effects of CBD in DogsLuckily, studies suggest the associated side effects of CBD oil and CBD dog treats are extremely mild, and are likely not to occur at all.However, it’s important to keep these reported side effects in mind, if any changes occur in your dog’s behavior:Dry mouth: Research has shown that CBD can decrease the production of saliva. For dogs, this would manifest as an increased thirst.Lowered blood pressure: High doses of CBD have been known to cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. Even though the drop is small, it might create a brief feeling of light-headedness.Drowsiness: Dog owners have used CBD to treat anxiety. The calming effect of CBD can also cause slight drowsiness, especially when using higher doses.Do Your Research When Giving Your Dog CBD OilWhile CBD is incredibly non-toxic, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your pet after introducing something new to their diet.Always do your research when trying out a new product, especially if you are buying CBD for your dog online. Avoid falling prey to the trendy hype and marketing claims.Talk to your vet first. CBD can affect the metabolism of many important medications (for pets and for humans), so it’s crucial to have a chat with your vet to make sure your pet isn’t in harm’s way.Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian. You should check with yours if you have any questions about CBD and your dog. It’s always suggested you check with your vet before starting your dog on a new supplement.
