Cannabidiol (CBD) is slowly finding its way into pet products, and understandably so. Numerous anecdotal reports and emerging scientific evidence indicate that this cannabis-derived compound may offer a remedy for various illnesses in pets, particularly dogs.
However, choosing cannabidiol products for your canine friend can be a painstaking process if you don’t know where to look. That’s especially bearing in mind that CBD products for pets differ considerably from those intended for human application. This guide highlights the crucial things to bear in mind while shopping for cannabidiol products for your pup.
Benefits of CBD for Dogs
As already mentioned, the pet industry now teems with cannabidiol-infused products. However, the first thing to do before buying CBD for your dog is to understand how the animal stands to benefit from this cannabinoid.
Now, pain management is the biggest reason people consume cannabidiol goods. So, it’s not surprising that muscle and joint pain also happen to be the most common medical problems that CBD may address in dogs. As with humans, cannabidiol mediates pain by desensitizing specific endocannabinoid receptors that relay pain signals from the affected areas to the brain.
Inflammation relief is another notable benefit of CBD for dogs. Cannabidiol soothes inflammation by suppressing the activation of inflammatory markers, such as cytokines and chemokines. According to this 2018 study, CBD demonstrated remarkable analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential in dogs with osteoarthritis.
Dogs battling epileptic seizures might also benefit immensely by consuming cannabidiol-infused treats. CBD is a powerful sedative. When consumed, the compound may treat epilepsy by reducing the hyperactivity of brain receptors and chemicals that stimulate seizures. A small study published in 2019 attempted to investigate cannabidiol’s antiseizure properties in dogs. In the experiment, researchers observed a marked reduction in the number of seizures for dogs that received a dose of CBD and their regular seizure medications compared to the placebo group.
Last but not least, CBD may help to relieve anxiety in dogs. That’s due to the compound’s ability to stimulate serotonin signaling. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in humans and animals alike, associated with feelings of happiness.
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Choosing the Best CBD Products for Dogs
Establish a Brand’s Reputation
There’s no shortage of retailers purporting to offer high-quality cannabidiol-infused pet products. However, it would be imprudent to take every seller at their word.
Your best bet is to establish a brand’s credibility by checking the period they’ve been around. Older and more established suppliers are likely to offer premium-quality CBD goods than newer companies.
Read Reviews
Reviews are equally crucial before buying any cannabidiol products for your dog. The company you’re planning to purchase CBD goods from must have a high approval rating from its previous clients. But that’s not all.
You’d also do well to check reviews for the specific product you’re about to purchase. Try to find out what some pet parents had to say concerning the product and its effectiveness.
Find Out THC Levels
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is another famous naturally-occurring cannabinoid in marijuana. The compound packs most of the health benefits of CBD. Research has shown that using cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol may offer synergistic effects than administering the compounds individually.
However, THC is also the main intoxicating chemical in weed, and pets should never consume mind-altering drugs. So, shun any CBD goods formulated with significant THC levels.
Besides, remember that the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol in CBD products can affect the legality of such compounds. In the United States and many other countries where cannabis is legal for medical use, regulators still require such products to contain a maximum THC potency of 0.3% to be deemed legal.
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Check for Testing Reports
Cannabidiol products that come with proof of lab testing are likely to be safer and more potent than those without such reports. Lab testing reports usually appear on a product’s online description page.
If buying CBD for your dog from a physical pet store, see a copy of the report before completing the purchase. Above all, ensure the report comes from independent testing laboratories.
Choose a Suitable Product Formulation
CBD goods for dogs come in various formulations. Examples include pet treats, kibble, canned meals, creams, and oils. The choice of a suitable product depends on the reason for the medication and your dog’s temperament and personality.
For instance, creams are best suited for targeted applications, such as when treating localized joint inflammation. Pet treats and kibble would be ideal for skittish dogs who may become agitated at the sight of oil tinctures. Alternatively, you can administer cannabidiol oil to your dog by mixing the oil into his homemade dishes.
In the same breath, ensure any CBD products you buy for your pup contain flavors that dogs naturally love. Examples include beefy, porky, lamb, and chicken flavors. Last but not least, the product should contain other compounds beneficial for dogs. That includes chondroitin sulfates for keeping your dog active, glucosamine for enhanced mobility, and hyaluronic acid for healthy cartilage function.
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Wrap Up
Cannabidiol products for dogs come in numerous formulations. Whichever form you choose depends on the disease you’re trying to treat in your puppy and the dog’s personality. However, note that product formulation isn’t the only requirement when looking for high-quality CBD goods for your canine friend. It’s also prudent to check the product’s composition and the reputation of the company behind it.
