CBD (cannabidiol) has grown in popularity in recent years as a result of its possible medicinal properties in both people and animals. CBD for pets, particularly dogs, has piqued the curiosity of pet owners and veterinarians. In this post, we will present a general overview of CBD for pets as well as five potential CBD benefits for dogs.
A Brief Overview of CBD for Pets: CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive chemical obtained from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) found in animals, including dogs, which regulates a variety of physiological functions. CBD products for pets are primarily sourced from cannabis plants, which are 100% THC free(tetrahydrocannabinol), cannabis’s psychoactive component.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
1. Alleviates Anxiety and Stress
CBD has been found to have anxiolytic properties, making it useful for dogs experiencing anxiety or stress-related conditions. It may help dogs with separation anxiety, noise phobias, travel anxiety, or general anxiety disorders. Several studies have shown that CBD can potentially reduce anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain[^1].
2. Manages Pain and Inflammation
CBD exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it potentially beneficial for dogs with chronic pain, arthritis, or inflammation-related conditions. CBD may help reduce pain perception and inflammation by interacting with receptors in the ECS and modulating the immune response[^2].
3. Supports Joint Health
As dogs age, they may develop joint issues, such as osteoarthritis, which can affect their mobility and quality of life. CBD may offer potential benefits by reducing inflammation in the joints, thereby providing relief from pain and improving joint function[^3].
4. Enhances Appetite and Digestion
Loss of appetite and digestive issues can be common in dogs, especially when they are undergoing treatments or recovering from illness. CBD has shown promise in stimulating appetite and improving digestion by interacting with receptors in the ECS and regulating appetite-related hormones[^4].
5. Promotes Calmness and Sleep
CBD may help dogs with sleep disorders, restlessness, or insomnia. It has been reported to have sedative effects, which can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. By acting on receptors in the ECS, CBD may regulate sleep-wake cycles and help dogs achieve a more restful sleep[^5].
In the CBD market for dogs, a variety of products are available to cater to different preferences and needs. These products are specially formulated to deliver CBD in a safe and convenient way for dogs. Some of the common CBD products for dogs include biscuits, treats, and oils.
CBD-Infused Biscuits and Treats
These products are designed to provide a tasty and enjoyable way to administer CBD to dogs. They often come in various flavors and sizes, making it easy to find options that suit your dog’s preferences. CBD-infused biscuits and treats are convenient for daily use and can be incorporated into your dog’s regular routine.
CBD Oils
CBD oils for dogs are typically administered orally. They come in bottles with droppers for precise dosage control. CBD oils are versatile and can be added to your dog’s food or directly administered into their mouth. They provide a flexible option for adjusting the CBD dosage based on your dog’s needs.
It’s important to note that when purchasing CBD products for dogs, it’s crucial to choose reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure the quality, purity, and accurate CBD content of the products. Consulting with your veterinarian can also help guide you in selecting the most appropriate CBD products for your dog’s specific requirements.
In summary, the CBD market for dogs offers a range of products such as biscuits, treats, and oils. These products provide different administration options to cater to individual preferences and ensure convenient CBD delivery for your furry companion. When choosing CBD products, prioritize reputable brands and consider consulting with your veterinarian for guidance.
Photo by Jozef Fehér
Sources and References:
Campos AC, et al. (2013). Involvement of serotonin-mediated neurotransmission in the dorsal periaqueductal gray matter on cannabidiol chronic effects in panic-like responses in rats. Psychopharmacology, 226(1), 13-24.
Hammell DC, et al. (2016). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 936-948.
Philpott HT, et al. (2017). Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis. Pain, 158(12), 2442-2451.
Ignatowska-Jankowska BM, et al. (2020). Cannabidiol-induced lymphopenia does not involve NKT and NK cells. Journal of Immunology, 204(1 Supplement), 195.2-195.2.
Chagas MH, et al. (2013). Cannabidiol can improve complex sleep-related behaviours associated with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Parkinson’s disease patients: a case series. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(5), 564-566.
Disclaimer: Please note that while the sources and references provided are reputable, it’s always advisable to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or treatments to your pet’s routine.
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