The endocannabinoid system regulates our body’s cognitive and physiological processes and homeostatic functions, which include pain sensation, appetite, mood, temperature, memory, and even fertility. And it’s not just humans that have an endocannabinoid system. Our dogs have it, too.
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive chemical component found in cannabis, is an effective wellness supplement that interacts with the endocannabinoid system and supports its various functions and processes. Other cannabinoids or active compounds in cannabis interact positively with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system, too, but because CBD does not create a high, there is a growing interest in the application of CBD oil for dogs.
Is CBD oil safe for dogs?
First, it needs to be clear to dog owners that the effects of CBD on our beloved furry friends is still subject to current and ongoing research and trials. For instance, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University is currently studying the effectiveness of CBD in the treatment of osteoporosis and epilepsy in dogs.
Generally, however, CBD is considered to be safe for dogs. And more and more veterinarians — especially in countries and in states in the U.S. where medical cannabis has already been legalized — who talk about CBD with pet owners as an alternative treatment for dogs (and cats) who are suffering from pain caused by certain health issues.
The important thing for pet owners to remember is to make sure that the CBD oil or CBD product they give their dogs is derived from the cannabis hemp plant and has high CBD and low THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content. THC is the psychoactive component in cannabis, or the component that produces the high.
Additionally, you should make sure that the CBD oil or CBD product you give your dogs is formulated for their system.
Always keep in mind that CBD products designed for human consumption could contain ingredients that may cause digestive upset in dogs. So do not even think about giving your dogs CBD from your own stash. Get CBD products that are specifically formulated for dogs and that contain ingredients that are scientifically proven safe and beneficial to your dog’s system.
Should I give my dog CBD oil?
Since CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in a positive and beneficial way, this natural solution works amazingly as a wellness supplement for your dog. This means that CBD products for dogs have been formulated to promote general wellness.
So, the thing is, if you want to give your dog CBD as treatment for a specific medical condition, it is best to discuss it with your veterinarian.
The appropriate CBD oil dosage for dogs
You can find CBD oil formulations and CBD-infused treats available for dogs. Go for those that are recommended by your vet or are manufactured by reputable cannabis brands. Just follow the recommended dose or serving size provided by the product’s manufacturer and as indicated on the label.
Or you can do microdosing. This means administering the smallest dose or smallest size for a start, seeing how it goes after two weeks of consistent consumption, and then upping up the dose after. The secret to microdosing is consistently increasing the dose every two weeks until you observe the desired changes.
Why two weeks? It may take two weeks’ consistent use in order to see CBD build up in your dog’s system.