You’ve heard about CBD oil for the treatment of pain. You’ve heard about it being used to alleviate some medical symptoms, but have you considered how it can help your canine companion? While most of the research into CBD’s potential is done on the human side, there are plenty of scientists formulating new products that can make your four-legged friend’s life that much easier. Here’s what you need to know about cannabidiol for dogs and the benefits it provides. 

The basics of CBD oil

CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a compound that is found in hemp and cannabis. With the help of cbd oil extraction from hemp, you’re left with a liquid substance that has many of the benefits of cannabis without the more intense, heavy side effects. That’s because CBD doesn’t contain any THC which is the compound found in marijuana that causes these side effects. Since CBD is more commonly derived from hemp as opposed to marijuana plants, it’s easier to avoid those stronger effects. 

It’s also important to know that, while trials, tests, and research are currently being sponsored, there are no definitive studies on the exact treatment uses for dogs. However, the American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation is currently researching many of the possible applications of CBD in dogs, and it appears as though there are plenty of conditions the compound can treat, though many of these are more anecdotal in nature. 

Applications of CBD oil for dogs

Brands like Panacea life sciences are taking advantage of the growing interest in CBD for dogs, and are producing products to fit the market. Many of the common applications are covered by this and similar oils. These include anti-inflammation, joint pain, increasing appetite, reducing pet nausea, and anti-anxiety. Many CBD oil producers and researchers are interested in the potential applications for pets dealing with cancer, but there is no conclusive research on this particular use. One other application that is of interest is the potential for treating medication and treatment-resistant epilepsy in dogs. 

Potential side effects

Again, like some of the benefits, many of the side effects are more anecdotal, as well. Several of the common side effects that pet owners have observed are dry mouth, as CBD can decrease saliva production which would increase dog thirst and lower blood pressure. This can cause the pet to feel temporarily lightheaded and experience drowsiness. Since CBD is known for its calming effects and its uses in the treatment of anxiety, this is a more natural effect and shouldn’t have a major impact on your pets unless the CBD is taken at higher doses. 

Choosing the right CBD oil

When it comes to a CBD oil for dogs, there are a few key traits that you should keep an eye out for. It’s important that you find an organic product. Since much of the research in CBD for pets is still in its infancy, it’s important to get as natural of a product as possible. If finding an organic product simply isn’t possible, avoid ones with additives like pesticides which can be harmful for pets. It’s also better to consider something like a tincture or liquid dropper. While treats are generally fine, if you don’t know how your dog will react to CBD, it’s better to be able to alter their dose manually, which a tincture allows. 

When it comes to your pets, CBD has a lot of potential applications, though there’s still a lot of research to be done. Make sure that you’re keeping yourself well-informed when you’re buying a product and don’t settle on something just because it has an attractive price tag. Higher quality means a higher cost, and if you’re invested in purchasing CBD oil for your dog, you’ll likely need to open up your wallet a bit.