From CBD oil to dog treats, there is a lot to know

It’s everywhere. Now that CBD is legal in the United States, it’s gracing every retail countertop, from the corner pharmacy to the pet food store. And even though science is still catching up on the veterinary benefits of CBD, dog owners all over the country are lauding its anecdotal benefits.

With all of the information and misinformation out there about CBD and cannabis in general, it can be a bit overwhelming to sort through. That’s why we’re compiling everything you need to know about CBD oil and CBD dog treats. Obviously, when it comes to your best furry friend, keeping him or her healthy and happy is paramount.

What Science Says About CBD for Your Dog

So, how does CBD affect dogs? Right now, there is a wealth of anecdotal reports saying CBD helps with anxiety, seizures, joint pain, nausea and inflammation. How much of that is actually true? Well, much of what we know about CBD and dogs is purely anecdotal, which means it can’t altogether be trusted. Unfortunately, according this study in Toxicology Communications (2018), there are still some looming gaps in scientific knowledge about CBD and pets.

Right now we know that there are few, if any side effects of CBD in dogs, which is promising. If your dog is taking other medications or experiencing liver problems, CBD may not be a good option for your pup. And some dogs have shown signs of digestive problems after taking CBD, like diarrhea or vomiting.

But, science has shown that there might be benefits of CBD for dogs. Right now, research is suggesting that CBD holds potential for treating epilepsy in dogs as well as arthritis symptoms. These studies are still preliminary, but they pave the way for more research and possibilities surrounding CBD.

Can I Give my Dog Human CBD Oil?

This is a common question that is well worth asking. Be aware that the answer is an unequivocal NO. Do not give your dog human CBD oil. Why? Human CBD oil may contain traces of THC, which is toxic for your dog. Let us repeat: THC is toxic for dogs. 

Human CBD oil can also contain other ingredients that are toxic for pets, like xylitol and grapeseed oil. So, when shopping for CBD oil for your pet, it’s important to be extra careful. Otherwise, you might be making an emergency visit to the veterinarian. The last thing you want to do is give your best pal something that will make him or her sick. Marijuana intoxication in dogs is definitely a thing, and it can be very unpleasant, and even deadly, for your pet.

What to Look for in CBD Pet Products

Look for veterinary-safe CBD products, that conduct third party testing. Also, look for a seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). And just to be sure, check out the list of ingredients and cannabinoid composition. You’ll want to verify that it only contains cannabidiol, or CBD, and nothing else that might be harmful for your dog. 

Also, be sure to talk with your veterinarian first before you give your dog CBD. Make sure there are no comorbid issues that could put your pet at risk. In some states, it is illegal for veterinarians to bring up the subject of cannabis with their patients. So don’t be timid — you might have to broach the topic. However, talking with your veterinarian about CBD treatment is important in keeping your dog happy and healthy. A veterinarian can also advise you on the correct dosing of CBD for your pet.

And if you’re thinking of making your own CBD oil for your dog… don’t. Due to widespread regulation issues, there is a pervasive problem regarding mislabeling of cannabinoids. Testing CBD oil on your own for its cannabinoid values is no easy task, either. So unless you have access to a whole hemp plant and you’re not buying CBD flower in a store, don’t make CBD oil for your dog at home. You won’t be able to test it to ensure it doesn’t contain harmful levels of THC.

Unless you’re well-versed in the art of correctly and evenly dosing treats with CBD oil, you’ll want to stick with buying CBD dog treats instead of making them, too. Dogs may not be able to absorb higher levels of CBD without side effects as easily as humans can. Too much CBD could potentially cause digestive issues.

If you are making your own treats and wondering how much CBD to give your dog, studies are showing that the right dose might be around two milligrams per kilogram. However, the research is still young on this topic, which is why it’s a good idea to talk with your veterinarian first.