Navigating the world of canine health can often feel like deciphering a complex puzzle, especially with emerging trends like CBD and dogs. Amidst the buzz and myriad of information (and misinformation), it’s essential to sort fact from fallacy before diving into dosing your dog with any new cure for that which ails them.
With science as our compass and your dog’s well-being at heart, the team at Banixx has decoded the science behind CBD and dogs. Read on to unravel how CBD might work to improve the life of your precious pup.
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from the cannabis plant. But do not panic! Unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD doesn’t produce the psychoactive “high” you might associate with any mention of marijuana. Instead, this compound is derived from both the marijuana plant and its cousin hemp and contains only trace amounts of THC.
The Difference between Hemp and CBD
Hemp: Hemp refers to the plant Cannabis sativa, specifically cultivated for industrial uses such as fiber, seeds, and oil.
CBD: CBD is one of the many chemical compounds found in hemp. While hemp contains various cannabinoids, including CBD, it also contains only trace amounts of THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana. CBD, extracted from hemp, has gained popularity for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as alleviating pain, reducing anxiety, and promoting relaxation, without causing intoxication.
All of which to say, dosed correctly, CBD contains all the benefits with none of the buzz.
How Does CBD Work?
Humans and dogs share an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating mood, appetite, pain, and more. While CBD doesn’t bind directly to this system it does influence it by lowering its activity level and interacting in a generally beneficial way. In so doing, it offers potential relief for various health issues.
The Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs
Some of the scientifically proven potential benefits of CBD for dogs include:
- Relief from inflammation and joint pain: CBD reduces inflammatory responses, thereby alleviating pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis. CBD for a dog’s hip and joint gives pet parents a natural alternative or supplement to traditional pain management strategies.
- Reduction in strength, length and frequency of seizures: Some studies suggest CBD could reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs by stabilizing abnormal electrical activity in the brain. This offers hope for effective treatment alongside anti-seizure medications.
- Anxiety and stress reduction: In selected studies, the administration of CBD for dogs with pain and anxiety showed a decrease in behaviors such as dog aggression and separation anxiety. This ability to modulate stress and anxiety responses in dogs means CBD shows promise as a behavioral intervention tool. Happy dog, happy home!
- Support for cancer care: Some studies have shown that CBD contains anti-cancer properties that may slow down the progression of the disease by inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells. Research in this area for canines is ongoing, but the promise for improved quality of life for canine cancer patients is certainly positive.
Type, Format, Quality and Sourcing
Of course, not all CBD products are appropriate for dogs, and not all are created equal! Type, quality assurances, and sourcing matter when it comes to choosing the right CBD product for your pooch. Considerations of note include:
Full spectrum vs broad spectrum vs isolate
Products can contain full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, or CBD isolate. Full spectrum CBD includes all the cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, potentially offering an “entourage effect” where the compounds work synergistically for the most holistic health benefits. Broad-spectrum is similar but lacks THC, while CBD isolate is the purest form of CBD without any other cannabinoids.
Oil vs Water-Soluble CBD
To date, CBD oil for dog hip and joint pain has been popular due to ease of dosing. However, water-soluble CBD is beginning to gain traction, thanks to the promise of faster results due to its enhanced absorption rate. Comparative studies show both can be equally effective in treating arthritic dogs, offering pet owners more treatment options.
Format
CBD products for dogs primarily come in three formats: oil tinctures, chewable treats, and topical solutions. Each has its unique advantages and applications.
- Tinctures: Often combined with coconut or hemp seed carrier oils, this liquid CBD extract can be administered directly into the dog’s mouth or mixed with food. This makes it easy to dose and fine-tune.
- Chews: CBD-infused chews, often in the form of treats, offer convenience of administration and the added bonus of additional beneficial ingredients to enhance the therapeutic effects.
- Topical solutions: These creams or balms infused with CBD are designed for external application, especially on areas with localized pain or inflammation. They can be particularly useful for dogs with skin issues or joint pain providing targeted relief.
Quality
The purity and quality of the CBD product you choose for your pooch are paramount. Always look for a valid “Certificate of Analysis” (COA). This certificate, usually provided by third-party labs, verifies the CBD concentration. Additionally, it checks for the presence of harmful substances like heavy metals or pesticides.
Sourcing
Hemp grown in clean, uncontaminated soils ensures a purer end-product, free from harmful contaminants. Look for organic products as well those grown close to home.
As the scientific community continues to explore CBD’s potential benefits for dogs, it’s evident that this compound holds promise for enhancing the quality of life for our furry friends. As for the answer to that much-asked question “Is CBD safe for cats and dogs?” Well, with careful research, alongside consultation with your vet when it comes to correct dosage and use, it is a resounding yes! CBD could very well be a valuable addition to your dog’s daily health routine.
Jane DeMeulemester is co-owner of Banixx. Jane and her husband Robert own and operate the business in Pinehurst, NC. Jane is in charge of the Digital Marketing Department which includes multiple blog posts about the health and wellbeing of dogs, cats and horses. Jane and Robert own a farm in nearby Southern Pines which houses multiple cats, dogs and horses In her spare time she trains and competes her two horses in the discipline of Eventing.
Banixx has been making top quality, non-toxic pet-care products since 2006. All Banixx products are produced in the USA and bottled using only American-made components. Chosen by Horse Journal as the “Top Product Of The Year,” Banixx products fight infections associated with wounds, fungus, rain rot, ringworm, hot spots, dog ear infections, scratches (mud fever), abscesses, thrush, white line disease, bacterial and fungal infections, and secondary infections from bug bites and itches. Banixx is recommended by Veterinarians as a top-quality, affordable product. It’s available online or in your favorite feed or chain store. To learn more, visit Banixx.com.
