CBD Benefits for Dogs

More than just a pet, your dog is a member of your family. So, it makes sense that you want your canine companion to feel as good as possible, as much as possible. That’s where CBD products come in, providing a safe, vet-recommended natural alternative to many common chemical treatments. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at the way CBD interacts with your dog’s endocannabinoid system, the symptoms that can be alleviated with CBD therapy, and recommended amounts to administer.

The Science Behind CBD for Dogs

Every animal with a spinal column has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is an ancient system – scientists estimate that endocannabinoid systems evolved over 600 million years ago – but it wasn’t until recent research uncovered the importance of the endocannabinoid system that our understanding grew. We now know that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in the secretion of hormones relating to sleep, energy, stress and food intake.

In order to help regulate these basic functions, the endocannabinoid system maintains the body’s internal balance through a network of receptors throughout the body, but most notably in the immune system and nervous system. Cannabinoids act as the endocannabinoid system’s messengers, sending specific information to specific receptors through the body. Or, as Dr. Robert Silver, DVM put it, “Receptors are like locks, and cannabinoids are like keys.”

While veterinary research is lagging behind medical science, that is changing and doctors in both fields have noted undeniable similarities between canine and human endocannabinoid systems. Therefore, it’s reasonable that our furry friends would experience similar benefits from the addition of CBD therapy to their daily regimen.

Symptom Relief for Dogs

The list of illnesses and ailments that can be treated naturally with CBD products is extensive – and growing! Much like humans, dogs have been shown to enjoy relief from a variety of issues including pain, inflammation, general anxiety and a variety of skin disorders in various clinical studies. Veterinary research even shows a reduction of tumors in several types of cancer!

However, dogs with poorly controlled epilepsy may stand to benefit the most. In a 2016 study of owner-enrolled dogs at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, it was discovered that 89% of dogs who received CBD had a reduction in the frequency of seizures. Other studies at other universities are also being conducted, with positive findings for dogs suffering from arthritis, autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative diseases such as the canine equivalent of dementia.

CBD therapy research is also indicating that CBD for pets may help promote heart health by reducing damage to blood vessels and arteries, reducing heart rate, and naturally managing blood pressure associated with stress and anxiety. Other studies are finding that CBD products may help reduce nausea and improve appetite for dogs that are struggling to maintain a healthy weight, and have shown positive effects on the gastrointestinal system, often aiding in the restoration of normal gut motility and the prevention of colitis.

Introducing CBD

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, you have probably heard some horror stories regarding dogs that have poisoned themselves by eating marijuana-infused edibles or consuming parts of the plant itself. These news reports may leave you feeling a little worried about administering a cannabis-based supplement to your doggie darling. We totally understand.

It’s important to note that Onyx & Rose CBD oil is made from industrial hemp, not marijuana. The hemp plant contains only trace amounts of THC, the compound that is toxic to dogs in very large doses. In fact, even before distillation and production, hemp plants do not contain enough THC to pose a threat to dogs. While some studies do suggest that trace amounts of THC may not be harmful to dogs, we strongly recommend playing it safe with a THC-free compound.

One of the most common questions we receive is how much CBD oil is right for your pet. While amounts will vary from brand to brand and product to product, we have created a veterinarian-recommended serving chart based on our popular CBD Pet Oil.

<15lbs = 0.25mL

16 – 30lbs = 0.50mL

31 – 45lbs = 0.75mL

46 – 60lbs = 1.0mL

61 – 75lbs = 1.25mL

76 – 90lbs = 1.50mL

Onyx & Rose CBD Pet Oil is suitable for cats or dogs and can be given orally or simply added to your pet’s regular food. For best results, administer this bacon-flavored supplement twice a day. As with any vitamin or supplement, we recommend discussing CBD products with your vet before adding them to your pet’s daily regimen to avoid negative interactions with other medications.