Can CBD Safely Be Given to Dogs?

If you own a dog, you'll probably have noticed that just like humans, dogs can also have moments where they just don't feel very well. And the older your dog is, the more your dog will probably suffer from some of the many aging ailments. However, recent studies have shown how cannabidiol, or CBD, can help relieve some of your dog's physical woes.

First, and foremost, CBD is one of the chemical compounds extracted from the cannabis plant. Second, unlike other psychotropic compounds like THC that are extracted from cannabis, CBD is non-psychotropic, and consumption will not result in a high sensation.

Continuing research has shown the immense health benefits of using CBD as a supplement for various ailments. Likewise, if you’re looking for CBD oil for pets, you’d be glad to know that the benefits of CBD have been demonstrated to also be effective for dogs. Since the original CBD research in 2013, multiple canine CBD products in different forms such as oils, chews, and treats have entered the market. Here are a few of the top reasons to administer CBD to your dog.  

Arthritis

Life expectancy differs in dogs by breed. For most dogs, by age 10, a dog would be just reaching middle age. And just like humans, aging in dogs comes with a whole host of physical ailments. One of the ailments that affect older dogs includes arthritis. Fortunately, the arthritic pain in dogs is one of the most well-researched topics, and CBD for dogs with arthritic pain is probably one of the best treatments.

Seizures

Seizures are most common in dogs with epilepsy. Unfortunately, canine medical treatment of seizures often causes adverse side effects, such as nausea. Recent studies have suggested that canine seizures can be alleviated with the use of CBD oil. These should not be confused with an isolate, which will have much higher concentrations of cannabidiol. CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD available and comes in a crystalline, powdered form. It is often too strong and concentrated to be used safely on pets.

Pain Management

Using CBD to manage your dog's pain is a personal decision that depends on multiple factors such as the legality of CBD in your state, the extent of your dog's pain, and the type and size of your dog. According to some veterinarians, all of these factors will affect the correct dosage given to your pet. Because CBD research for pets is still ongoing, it is best to talk to your veterinarian to formulate a customized dose right for your dog. In general, you want to start with the lowest dosage possible with an observation time frame before attempting to increase the dosage.

Nausea

If your dog is throwing up, using a natural treatment such as CBD may help ease your dog's discomfort. There may be many reasons why your dog is throwing up, including pregnancy, eating excess food, intestinal worms, or inflammation. CBD oils can help combat your dog's nausea. Confirm with your dog's medical professional on the proper dosage and start from the smallest dosage recommended. It is also important to find out the root cause of your dog's nausea.

Anxiety and Stress

Just like their human friends, dogs can get stressed and feel anxious for any number of reasons. Some common signs of stress include:

  • Showing the whites of their eyes
  • Showing the gums of their teeth
  • Barking, growling, or groaning in an unfocused manner
  • Displaying excessive licking
  • Showing shaking or shivering
  • Shredding an abnormal amount of hair
  • Having constantly tensed muscles 

If your dog is showing these symptoms, CBD oils have been shown to be very effective at calming your dog down. As with all CBD treatments on dogs, start with the lowest dosage as recommended by your animal care specialist.

Arthritis & Hip Dysplasia

CBD oil has been shown to be effective at treating your dog's pain by decreasing the intensity of nerve pain. During the past few years, CBD has been becoming the preferred natural method of managing pain. Unfortunately, since your dog cannot tell you where the pain is, consultation with a veterinarian is the best way to get a diagnosis before starting any treatment with CBD.

Cancer

For canine pet owners, one of the most prevalent diseases that could affect your dog is a malignant tumor growth commonly known as cancer.  Unfortunately, cancer is currently the leading cause of death for middle age and older dogs. With one in three older dogs expected to get cancer at some point in their life, it is best to be prepared. As with humans, the most common treatment for dogs with cancer is chemotherapy. Some forms of cancer may require surgery and radiation. Extreme cases of cancer may require amputation of the affected limb. These treatments are serious and can cause your dog a considerable amount of pain.

Just as CBD has helped many humans deal with pain and certain ailments, similar benefits have also been seen when used with dogs to combat certain health and medical issues. With more and more dog owners and animal care specialists interested in the health benefits of CBD, options and research have become more widely available. 


If you’re looking to get some other yummy treats for your dog, we’ve got you covered! Take a look at our various bakery treats that we have available.

Rocky Kanaka

Rocky Kanaka is an entrepreneur, pet rescue advocate and dog dad to a rescue boxer named Flip, a blind Cane Corso called Kobe, and a terrier mix named Zoey. He's also a pet chef and owner of The Dog Bakery, which specializes in dog birthday cakes and fresh baked dog treats. His three dogs can't get enough of the dog cakes and treats!

Lorna Ladd

Lorna Paxton Ladd is a passionate dog lover and enthusiast of The Dog Bakery. She loves spoiling her 3 rescue dogs with dog cakes and jerky. A 15 year veteran in the pet industry, her aim is to educate pet parents on the best recipes, products, tips and tricks to optimize the human/canine bond. Her favorite product at The Dog Bakery are the customizable dog birthday cakes.