CBD for dogs with anxiety
Featured image from HonestPaws.com Website
Do you seek an alternative to the chemical-infused veterinary pharmaceuticals for your canine? It’s not just you.
Many pet owners seek more natural alternatives to the widely criticized over-the-counter prescriptions.
Lately, there’s been rising anxiety-based concerns among pet lovers. Experts say over 70% of dogs display anxiety.
Among others, we’ve entertained a truckload of inquiries on the benefits of CBD for dogs with anxiety.
Interestingly, growing researches suggest that CBD may be as beneficial to your furry friend as it is to humans for anxiety problems.
Before we dive into the anti-anxiety properties of CBD for dogs, first things first…
What is CBD Oil?
CBD — short for cannabidiol — is one of over a hundred compounds found in the buds and flowers of the cannabis plant.
Thankfully, CBD does not create the ‘high’ widely associated with marijuana.
That said, pure CBD extract contains but a too-insignificant-to-cause-a-high percentage (under .3% THC according to the US federal legislation) of THC – the high causing compound in cannabis.
Understanding Anxiety in Dogs
How do I know my dog has anxiety issues? That’s one common question among dog parents.
Anxiety manifests in different forms. Your pooch may be anxious if you notice normal behaviors in abnormal contexts.
Typically, pacing around may suggest your dog needs to pee. But if you notice reoccurring recklessness in your pet, that could be an anxiety hint.
Also, shaking the body as though wet — when completely dry — could be another tell-tale sign of anxiety. Others may include:
- Lips licking,
- Yawning
- Incessant barking/whining
- Chewing items
- and related subtle signs of discomfort.
While some of these causes are specific — like thunderstorms, separation, etc. —others are general, with no apparent cause.
CBD Oil for Anxiety in Dogs
Cannabidiol binds with the endocannabinoid system, signals the brain to regulate certain body functions, including sleep, appetite, and, as well, relieves symptoms like chronic pain and anxiety.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biological component found in all mammals. This means cats, dogs, and as well, humans may react similarly to CBD.
CBD for anxiety — and perhaps, pain — rank(s) among the most studied benefits of cannabidiol.
A 2015 study review analyzed researches on CBD, with a focus on its anti-anxiety properties.
The review examined lab-animal-based studies (on rats and mice) and about 15 clinical attempts on humans.
All results suggest that CBD offers relief to anxiety symptoms and may help manage stressed-induced and other generalized anxiety.
How CBD for Dogs Works
Noteworthily, science-based data on how CBD works for anxiety in dogs is minimal.
Research, however, suggests that cannabidiol may trigger certain brain’s serotonin receptors — referred to as 5-HT1A. This results in a temporal reduction in serotonin absorption, thereby increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.
This short-term serotonin boost may help reduce fear and anxiety and as well, promote a good mood.
A study also reveals CBD’s potency in promoting neurogenesis in the brain’s hippocampus — a component that assists in memory creation and cognition control.
Research says CBD may help the hippocampus develop new brain cells. This will, in turn, help control anxiety-related symptoms.
Is CBD for dogs safe?
Yes. CBD is considered widely safe and well-tolerated with moderate dosages. Although not recommended, mild side effects — including drowsiness, dry mouth, lowered blood pressure — are, but scarcely, reported even at high doses.
Besides, CBD oil will not interfere with your veterinary pharmaceuticals. In fact, research shows CBD may help boost the potency of other prescriptions – like, pain killers.
Note that humans and dogs react to CBD differently. Dogs are typically more sensitive to the compound. Hence lower doses (than for humans) is advised.
IS CBD for dogs legal?
Veterinarians across the US can neither prescribe, dispense, nor encourage the use of CBD-infused products.
That said, they may discuss likely risks and gains of any treatment you may consider. Talk with your CBD-inclined vet before you buy or administer CBD for your anxious furry friend.