Many individuals use CBD (cannabidiol) to alleviate physical and mental health woes. However, CBD products can also help your four-legged family members feel their best. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and will not cause your pet to feel high.
Many dog owners find that CBD products improve symptoms related to anxiety, arthritis, chronic pain, seizures, and limited mobility. Here are a few guidelines to follow when using CBD products for your dog.
1. Stick with CBD Products That are Labeled for Pet Use
When selecting CBD products to give your pooch, look for products that are specifically labeled for consumption by or use on pets. These products have been reviewed to ensure that they don't contain any additives that can potentially be harmful to your pet.
Choose organic CBD products when possible to make sure that your dog isn't consuming any harmful pesticides or chemicals. CBD is metabolized by your dog's liver, and you don't want their liver to have to breakdown a bunch of potentially dangerous additives.
Only use CBD products that contain no THC. THC is toxic to dogs and will result in vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and unsteady movements if consumed in significant amounts.
2. Start with a Low Dose and Slowly Increase as Needed
Once you've found the right type of CBD product for your dog, it's important to use the correct dosage. Consult with your vet to see if they can offer any guidance.
Your vet can also tell you if any existing medication that your pet is taking will interact with CBD products or affect their ideal dosage. It's possible to use CBD products in conjunction with other treatments to provide your dog with the care they need.
Generally, your pet's CBD dosage will vary based on their weight. If your pet weighs more, they'll need a higher dosage. Always start with a lower dose; you can always increase the dose or add another dose if it's not sufficient for your pet.
Give the dosage a few days before increasing it to observe its effectiveness. When working to find the right dose, you may prefer to give your pet CBD oil or a CBD tincture. It's easier to measure liquids with precision, giving you more control over your dog's dosage. Once you know the right CBD dose for your pup, you can experiment with chews and capsules if desired.
Signs that your dog's CBD dosage might be too high include drowsiness and dry mouth. If you notice your dog drinking water excessively or sleeping more than normal, try a smaller dose to see if it improves their ailments without the side effects. It's nearly impossible for your dog to consume a CBD dosage that's lethal or has long-term effects.
3. Know That the Form of the CBD Product May Influence the Effects
The form of the CBD products appears to impact how, or even if, the CBD improves your dog's ailments. For example, there are CBD creams and lotions available for pets. However, topical forms of CBD (like creams and balms) don't seem to have as much of an impact on dogs as edible products.
While every dog will respond differently to specific products, stick with edible products for the best results. This includes the following:
- CBD chews
- CBD capsules
- CBD oils
- CBD tinctures
Edible products allow the CBD to reach your dog's bloodstream quicker and keep the levels elevated for a longer period of time. An exception is if your dog suffers from skin issues. A cream with CBD may immediately relieve your dog's itching and discomfort.
Ready to explore CBD products for your dog? Check out New Leaf Organic Wellness to browse edible CBD products for your pet!