How to Use CBD Oil for Dogs and Pets

Just like humans, animals have an endocannabinoid system. The FDA has yet to officially approve any CBD products for animals.

However, many veterinarians support findings that animals can benefit from CBD oil. While vets give the thumbs up to CBD treats, this doesn’t mean feed your pet weed.

“Canine toxicosis” is very dangerous, and you should never give your pet human edibles or allow them to eat cannabis flower.

Canines & Cannabis

Dogs have an endocannabinoid system built to receive cannabinoids like CBD. Just like humans, a dog’s endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating many internal functions.

These include:

• Appetite
• Immune response
• Memory
• Metabolism
• Mood
• Movement and coordination
• Pleasure
• Sleep

One study on CBD for dogs found CBD could be a potential treatment for inflammatory disease in canines. More research is being conducted to understand more on the benefits of CBD oil for dogs. Scientist know for certain maintaining a well functioning endocannabinoid system can help the health of your pet.

How to treat your dog with CBD

As medical cannabis’ popularity continues to grow, more companies are adding CBD dog treats to their product lines.  Some companies make outrageous claims about miracle cures while some other companies’ products have little to none of the CBD said on the label.  Do research on the company and their CBD dog treats before you purchase.  Look at how they source and manufacture their product. Also check their lab results to verify the amount of CBD milligrams in the treats.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

Determining CBD dosage for dogs is as personal to each dog as it is to each human. Due to this, vets recommend taking it slow and starting low to find the right dose for your dog. Take into account your dogs’ size, age, and personality.

A general guideline is 1-5 mg of CBD per every 10 pounds.

However, remember to factor in your dog’s individuality. A hyper, 60 pound, puppy-Doberman Pinscher may begin with 24 to 30 mg to calm him down at night. (4 to 5 mg x 6 (per every 10 pounds).

Whereas an already mellow, older, 70 pound Golden Retriever may begin with 14 to 21 mg to help with inflammation that comes with age. (2 to 3 mg x 7 (per every 10 pounds).

Monitor how your dog reacts and you can increase or decrease dosage. Fortunately, improper dosing of CBD is far less dangerous than with THC.

However, should you give your pup a little too much CBD they will most likely just become sleepy and/or lethargic. In a handful of severe cases nausea or vomiting may occur. There are no recorded human or animal deaths from over consumption of CBD.

Cannabis is becoming a mainstream conversation for healing alternatives.  As a result, more vets are educating themselves on CBD oil for dogs. When possible, working with your vet to find the best CBD dosage for your dog is recommended.