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What Is CBD for Dogs and How Does It Work?
“Dog CBD” refers to a category of CBD products that are specifically designed for dogs. Just like humans, dogs have endocannabinoid systems that can benefit from CBD, and CBD products for dogs come in all shapes and sizes. The most common types of CBD supplements for dogs include CBD oil and CBD treats, and they can contain isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum CBD extract.
Definition of CBD Oil and Treats for Pets
When it comes to dogs and CBD, there are two types of products that stand out beyond all the rest. CBD oils for dogs are a lot like CBD tinctures made for humans, but they’re sometimes flavored to fit canine tastes. On the other hand, many pet owners consider CBD dog treats (also known as CBD dog chews) to be the best CBD products for dogs because they’re easier to consume.
How CBD Interacts with a Dog’s Endocannabinoid System
Just like humans, dogs have endocannabinoid systems that mainly consist of CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD largely affects other neuroreceptors associated with the endocannabinoid system, however, such as 5HT and TRP. As a result, dog CBD oil provides the same effects as human CBD oil, making it a prime target of cutting-edge veterinary medicine.
Full Spectrum vs Broad Spectrum vs Isolate for Dogs
Also known as “pure CBD for dogs,” CBD isolate consists only of the CBD compound — no other beneficial components of hemp are present. The best CBD for dogs, however, usually contains either full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum hemp extract can contain up to 0.3% THC, and broad-spectrum products are virtually identical to full-spectrum — they just don't contain any THC whatsoever.
What Are the Benefits of CBD for Dogs?
The effects of CBD on dogs vary to some degree, but there’s a general pattern of benefits that can be observed over countless thousands of cases. The benefits of CBD for dogs that have been reported most commonly tend to center around anxiety, pain, sleep, and calm.
Can CBD Help Dogs With Anxiety or Stress?
Yes, adding CBD to your pet’s daily routine has the potential to dramatically impact anxiety and stress levels. Dog owners who start offering CBD to their pets often note considerable reductions in behaviors related to stress and anxiety, such as nervous licking or exaggerated reactions to loud noises.
Is CBD Effective for Pain or Inflammation in Dogs?
Yes, many pet owners note impressive reductions in pain and inflammation-related behaviors after they start giving their dogs CBD. This potential improvement to your pet’s well-being will be especially welcome in older dogs.
Does CBD Improve Sleep or Mobility in Senior Dogs?
When it comes to using CBD for dogs, sleep is one of the most common uses. Improvements in overall wellness can only go so far if sleep is a concern, which is why so many pet owners have been relieved beyond words to start noticing their dogs sleeping better after beginning CBD treatment.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
Use of CBD in dogs is a widely researched subject, and the studies overwhelmingly indicate that this non-intoxicating cannabinoid is completely safe for canines. Is CBD safe for dogs? Find out in the section below:
Can Dogs Have Side Effects from CBD?
Even the strongest CBD for dogs shouldn’t cause any considerable side effects. Mild side effects can sometimes occur, however, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
Even when they do occur, these negative effects do not usually detract from the general wellness benefits of CBD in dogs. If canine CBD side effects persist, however, consult with your veterinarian.
Is CBD Legal for Pet Use in the US?
Can I give my dog CBD from a legal perspective? Yes, hemp CBD for dogs is fully legal in the United States as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, all CBD products containing less than this CBD threshold are considered “industrial hemp,” not the illegal drug “marijuana.”
Dogs, CBD, and Travel
Since it is a legal substance, the TSA has cleared CBD products for domestic travel. Be cautious when packing dog CBD on international trips, however.
How to Choose the Best CBD for Dogs
Once you’ve gotten past simple missteps like searching “CBD dor dogs” instead of “CBD for dogs,” it’s time to get into the more important questions, such as determining which brand offers the best dog calming CBD and commands the best balance between pricing and quality. Whether you’re looking for CBD for old dogs or puppies, use the following section to make the right choice:
Organic vs Non-Organic CBD for Pets
Organic CBD for dogs is more likely to offer the expected effects with as few detractors as possible. If a dog CBD product is organic, this means it contains all-natural ingredients, posing fewer dangers and potentially being more beneficial for healthy digestion, joint stiffness, and everyday wellness.
Importance of Third-Party Lab Testing and Certificates of Analysis
Third-party testing is the most important tool you have at your disposal when verifying the quality and safety of CBD oil products for dogs. Your pet’s health is at stake, so you should make sure that the lab tests provided for dog CBD oil products include the following information:
- Cannabinoid concentrations (CBD, CBG, CBC, THC, etc.)
- Terpene & flavonoid concentrations
- Heavy metal concentrations
- Agricultural contaminant concentrations
- Residual solvent concentrations
- Mycotoxin (mold, mildew, etc.) concentrations
Where to Buy Trusted CBD for Dogs
As you search for “CBD for my dog,” you’ll find yourself confronted with nearly countless retailers vying for your attention. In this section, learn how to choose the best place to buy CBD oil for your dog — either in-store or online.
Buying Directly from Reputable Pet CBD Companies
The best way to buy CBD products for dogs is to purchase them directly from the manufacturer. Choosing this option provides you with the widest range of product options, the best pricing, and the most comprehensive customer service.
Where Can I Buy CBD for Dogs Online?
You can buy CBD for dogs online directly from the manufacturer’s website. Most manufacturers ship to all 50 states and offer reasonable return policies.
What Makes a CBD Brand Dog-Friendly and Transparent?
The best CBD for dog owners to choose for their pooches will feature a dog-specific formula and be totally transparent in terms of ingredients and production methods used. It’s a plus if the brand also provides information on where they sourced their hemp and whether it was organically grown.
FAQs About CBD for Dogs
CBD and dogs are a natural fit. Learn more about the benefits of Colorado Botanicals CBD for dogs in the FAQ section below:
Does CBD Really Work for Dogs?
Does CBD Really Work for Dogs?
Yes, CBD works for dogs — just like it works for humans. The beneficial cannabinoids in CBD hemp products affect dogs nearly the same way as they affect humans, which dog owners say promotes calm behavior, better sleep, and reduced pain.
How Long Does It Take for CBD to Work in Dogs?
How Long Does It Take for CBD to Work in Dogs?
CBD generally starts affecting dogs 10-15 minutes after administration. It can take 30-45 minutes for dog CBD to take full effect, however.
Can Dogs Overdose on CBD?
Can Dogs Overdose on CBD?
No, dogs cannot overdose on CBD. Even strong CBD for dogs has no potential of causing overdose since CBD cannot cause overdose in either animals or humans.
Will CBD Get My Dog High?
Will CBD Get My Dog High?
No, CBD will not get your dog high. Even full-spectrum CBD only contains a maximum of 0.3% THC, which isn’t nearly enough to cause intoxication.
Are There CBD Oils for Dogs?
Are There CBD Oils for Dogs?
Yes, there are plenty of CBD oil products for dogs available both online and in stores. These products are designed specifically for canine needs.
Do Vets Recommend CBD for Dogs?
Do Vets Recommend CBD for Dogs?
Yes, plenty of veterinarians recommend dog CBD. They’ve seen how CBD for dogs works firsthand, and they want to share the benefits of this cannabinoid with their furry patients.
What Happens If I Stop Giving My Dog CBD?
What Happens If I Stop Giving My Dog CBD?
If you stop giving your dog CBD, they will no longer experience the benefits of this incredible, non-intoxicating cannabinoid. That’s all that will happen, though — as a non-addictive substance, CBD doesn’t cause withdrawals upon cessation of everyday use.













