Despite the recent spike in medicinal use, both hemp and CBD have been around for centuries. While it may have been seen as just another pet wellness trend in the past, recent studies have shown that it may actually be beneficial for your dog’s health. Does your running dog suffer from joint pain? Or could your good ol’ boy simply use some stress relief? Could CBD help your dog? We’ve consolidated the most reliable information on CBD for dogs, what it really does, as well as safety concerns and potential side effects.
What is CBD for dogs?
Firstly, it’s important to know what CBD is. Cannabidiol, or CBD is a compound in cannabis that doesn’t have any of the psychoactive properties commonly associated with the drug. THC is the psychoactive component of the plant that can alter state-of-mind. THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, can be toxic for dogs.
Fortunately, CBD products are not toxic and will not get your dog “high” because they come from a hemp plant. Hemp plants have CBD, but not THC.
While CBD is derived from the flowers in the cannabis plant is OK for humans, only CBD extracted from hemp is safe to use for your pets.
What is CBD for dogs used for?
Dog owners have suggested that CBD oil can be used to treat neuropathic pain and control seizures in your dog. Cannabinoids interact with receptors already present in the body and ultimately helps maintain balance in the body as well as keeping it in a normal and healthy state.
Potential benefits of CBD for dogs
Although there are no formal studies on how CBD affects dogs, what scientists do know is that CBD can benefit your pup in some of the following ways:
- Immune system support
- Helps manage stress
- Supports brain and nerve function
- Supports cardiovascular health
- Helps maintain inflammatory response
- Can relieve stiffness and soreness
- Supports connective tissue and joint health
- Can reduce free radical damage
- Supports antioxidant function
- Helps maintain disposition
- May help with allergies
