The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has been identified in dogs in the skin, peripheral and central nervous systems, gastrointestinal tract, and joints. The presence of the ECS prompted researchers to study the potential of CBD to promote canine health and address some health issues like skin disorders, fatigue and others. More people every year give their dogs CBD. Brightfield Group research found that 77% of CBD products were purchased for dogs. It is easy to learn how to give CBD oil to dogs, but the best product type depends on whether you are addressing general wellness or a specific health issue.
Why Give Your Dog CBD?
There is limited research on the benefits of giving CBD to dogs. However, the research that has been done has found it may deliver essential benefits. The following are just a few of the studies that have found the benefits of CBD for dogs.
1. Joint Support
A Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine study concerning dogs on CBD found that CBD helped reduce discomfort in dogs with joint issues. The results of giving dogs CBD for a month were remarkable. Some dogs were being considered for euthanasia, but after taking CBD, they could walk around and climb stairs.
2. Nervousness and Tension
A study of dogs that experience separation and travel strain experienced less tension from one dose of 4 mg of CBD administered 2 hours before exposure to stressful events. Reducing nervousness can improve general behavior even when you are home.
3. Skin Itching
Canine skin issues cause itchiness. A study recruiting dogs diagnosed with it found that dogs given a 10% broad-spectrum hemp (CBD) oil every 12 hours for eight weeks experienced less itching after two weeks. The researchers recommended starting with a low CBD dose and increasing it by 0.25 mg as needed.
4. Aggressive Behavior
The University of Western Australia researched whether CBD could improve a dog’s aggressive behavior towards humans. The dogs were given 5% CBD in olive oil for 45 days. The dogs showed some reduction in aggressive behaviors.
CBD pet products are designed for general pet wellness and to address specific issues. For example, you will find CBD products for calming, general wellness, joint health, relieving, and more. Products are made with full spectrum, broad spectrum or CBD isolate. Full spectrum CBD products have a low amount of THC. If you prefer to avoid giving your dog any THC, choose broad spectrum CBD oils or treats produced for dogs and cats.
Ways to Give Your Dog CBD
You can learn how to administer CBD oil to dogs, but what is the best way to give a dog CBD? Of course, if your dog has lichened skin from an allergy or dry skin, you may use CBD oil as a topical. Following are some other common ways you can give your dog CBD.
Sublingually
You can place CBD oil drops in your dog’s mouth if your dog allows it. Giving CBD oil sublingually or on the tongue will enable oil to work faster since it does not have to go through the digestive system to reach the bloodstream.
Transmucosally
You can rub CBD oil on the dog’s gums or cheek. This gives the same advantage as giving the CBD sublingually.
Mix in food
If your dog objects to you handling their mouth, you can mix oil in food. The food can be dry or wet. You can buy CBD oil with a natural flavor or salmon, bacon and chicken.
Give CBD treats
Like many CBD oil products, treats for dogs contain CBD and other ingredients, like botanical, fruits and vegetables, minerals and all-natural flavoring.
Rub CBD Oil on the Skin
Can you rub CBD oil on a dog’s skin? Rubbing CBD oil directly can soothe dry skin or relieve itching.
Since animals can be picky eaters, you can break up the treats and feed your dog small bits or add the treat bits to food so they are not easily detected. Some people have tried putting a flavorful CBD oil for dogs on a chew toy.
