8 key things to know

CBD oil is a rapidly growing market and the compound is now being touted as a treatment for dogs as well.

Indeed, therapy is already big business, with a study by Grand View Research estimating the CBD oil market size to exceed $ 37.4 million in 2020.

However, Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinarian of the American Kennel Club (AKC), warns that although CBD oil has potential benefits for dogs, owners should always consult their veterinarian before starting to use it. such medical treatments.

He said News week: “Cannabinoids such as CBD appear to have therapeutic promise in areas such as the treatment of epilepsy and the management of pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, neurogenic pain and possibly anxiety, although much of the scientific evidence available regarding their use in animals is currently limited.

“Although the results of a few well-controlled studies have been published, much of what we do know relates to anecdotal or case reports.

“It is of the utmost importance that people know that CBD is not marijuana, which is TOXIC to dogs and should not be administered to dogs under any circumstances.

“Additionally, it is always recommended that you consult your vet before you begin and take any medications or supplements, as your vet is most familiar with your dog’s medical history and needs.”

Here are some of the most important facts you need to know about CBD oil for dogs.

1. What is CBD oil?

While CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp, the oil from which it is derived rarely contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for providing marijuana with its psychoactive properties.

Note that hemp-derived CBD oil products (with less than 0.3% THC) are federally legal, but are still illegal under some state laws.

2. Does CBD Affect Dogs?

Currently, no formal research has been conducted on how CBD oil affects dogs.

However, research has shown that cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help to maintain balance in the body and keep it in a normal state of health.

3. What Dog Health Problems Could CBD Oil Treat?

Although definitive scientific data on the use of CBD to treat dogs is still lacking, the AKC states that “anecdotal evidence from dog owners suggests that it can treat pain, particularly neuropathic pain, as well. that help control crises “.

CBD is also used by humans for its purported anti-inflammatory properties, heart benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, as well as potential cancer benefits, although that conclusive data on this use are also lacking.

4. Potential side effects of CBD oil in dogs

Due to the lack of scientific data on the side effects of using CBD for dogs, experts can only speculate on the possible side effects depending on how the compound can affect humans.

Research suggests that CBD can decrease saliva production. The AKC said, “For dogs this would manifest as increased thirst.”

High doses of CBD are known to cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, which can trigger brief dizziness.

Humans have used CBD on their pet dogs to treat anxiety, while the calming effect of CBD oil can also cause mild drowsiness.

The AKC cautions in a statement: “To minimize potential side effects, be sure to follow the correct dosage.”

5. Potential Risks of Using CBD Oil with Dogs

The safety and risks of using CBD for dogs have not yet been studied, and the United States Food and Drug Administration has neither approved CBD nor published a dosage chart.

As a result, it’s still unclear what dose of CBD oil would be toxic to dogs.

The AKC warns that any medication or supplement carries a risk of a reaction, writing on its site: “It is always advisable, when giving your dog something new, to start with small amounts and then to watch it closely. effects. And always check with your vet. first.”

6. Can dogs taking medication use CBD oil?

Dog owners taking medication or supplements should always consult a veterinarian.

CBD oil can change the way animals metabolize certain drugs, just as grapefruits can cause significant reactions in humans.

Owners should consult their veterinarian about dose changes if a dog is taking any of the following medications: steroids, allergy medications, liver or kidney medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, heart medications, and anxiety medications.

7. Dosage of CBD for dogs

Each vial of CBD has a specific concentration expressed in milligrams. Some owners add CBD oil to their dog’s food.

Dr. Robert Silver of NurseYourPet suggests giving a dog 0.05 to 0.25 mg / pound of bodyweight twice daily is a “safe starting point”, as well as starting with lower doses and starting with lower doses. only increase them gradually if the lower dose seems ineffective. .

It is important to note that this is only from his anecdotal experience.

8. What are the best CBD oil products for dogs?

If consulting a veterinarian results in a decision to try CBD oil for treating your dog, there are a few key things to consider when purchasing the compound.

AKC says: “Not all oils are the same; you’ll want high-quality CBD oil to have a better chance of working.

If CBD oil isn’t organic, at least it shouldn’t contain pesticides, fungicides, or solvents.

Higher quality and purity is usually associated with a higher cost, which means that cheaper options can potentially contain toxic substances more likely, including pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals.

The manufacturer must provide a certificate stating the amount of CBD in the product, with some CBD products containing minimal amounts of CBD. People who buy CBD oil for their pet dogs will also want to make sure that there is little to no harmful THC in the product.

The AKC also advises people to buy CBD in liquid form whenever possible, saying, “You can buy dog ​​treats that contain CBD, but the best form to administer is an oil or a tincture. This way you can adjust your dog’s drip dose. “