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CBD Dog Treats: In what cases you should consider using them?

27th August 2021 Print
dog

You probably heard about CBD oil for dogs or CBD dog treats from a friend (who is also a pet parent). They praised it and made it sound like the best thing in the world for their pooch. Even more, they strongly recommended it for your own four-legged furry friend(s).

But is it really that good? And more importantly, is it safe?

To put your concerns are ease, let’s have a look at what CBD is and how it may affect your pooch.

What is CBD Oil?

Also known as cannabidiol, this is a compound extracted from cannabis and hemp. CBD products don’t contain THC, which is the compound with psychoactive properties in marijuana, so anyone (human or dog) using CBD won’t have any issues operating heavy vehicles. 

The market is already filled with all sorts of CBD products for humans, designed for casual consumption. However, in recent years, there’s also been a growing trend of CBD products designed for dogs. While we don’t yet have a conclusive scientific study on how CBD affects dogs, it is well known these products can help dogs with chronic pain regain some mobility or healthy dogs keep a balanced and happy life. 

How Will CBD Help My Dog?

In most cases, products like CBD chews for dogs are designed to keep a pooch happy and calm. So, if you’re traveling and Fido is not used to long drives or crowds, a few CBD treats may help keep him calm and having fun. 

Additionally, CBD is also useful with dogs who suffer from separation anxiety or those who don’t deal well with change (moving houses, bringing home a new pup, and so on). Anxiety in dogs is difficult to understand and deal with since it triggers all sorts of fearful and disobedient behaviors. That’s why many pet parents prefer using CBD products (the ones with natural ingredients). 

There is a study, sponsored by the AKC Canine Health Foundation where scientists measure the effects cannabidiol has on dogs who suffer from epilepsy. Up until now, they’ve found the compound manages to calm down seizures and reduces their occurrence. Still, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t discuss this aspect with your vet - CBD is not yet officially recommended as a seizure treatment and scientists have yet to decide on the possible side effects. 

Older dogs may get sluggish and turn into couch potatoes, but this is not necessarily because they’re not young and filled with energy anymore. In many cases, this slowing down is due to arthritis, a condition that affects their joint tissue and makes every movement painful (due to inflammation caused by joints that rub on each other). 

In this situation, CBD helps due to its anti-inflammatory properties. As the inflammation decreases, the pain will be reduced and the dogs will be able to move around once again. True, they may not be as springy as in their young years, but they will be more willing to get off the couch and go for a walk. 

Additionally, CBD can also improve a loss of appetite since it helps the digestive system get back on track. 

Act with Caution

Just like humans, every dog is unique, so you cannot apply the same treatment to two individuals. So, if you try a CBD product, make sure to choose one with natural ingredients and don’t overdo it. Observe your dog’s reactions and talk about them with your vet.

CBD is not known to produce any long-lasting secondary effects, but scientists are still debating on its long-term use. So, to keep Fido safe, act with caution and concern.

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