Dogs and humans are a lot more alike than many people realize. Not only do our furry friends have endearing personalities, but they also have similar biological systems. For this reason, the antihistamine sold for dogs contains the same active ingredients as similar products made for humans. This connection can also be seen with CBD, and therefore CBD dog treats are becoming increasingly popular.
CBD is the supplement of the moment for both humans and pets. Nowadays, you can buy CBD treats that have been specially formulated for dogs. Many of the health conditions that CBD can help humans with may also benefit our beloved dogs, so it makes perfect sense that companies are now marketing CBD oil dog treats.
What Are CBD Dog Treats?
CBD is a chemical compound that occurs naturally in the cannabis sativa plant. There are two classifications; hemp and marijuana. Most commonly, CBD comes from the hemp plant, which either contains less than 0.3% THC or no THC at all.
Typically, marijuana contains high traces of THC, meaning it has psychoactive effects. CBD, on the other hand, won’t get users high. Instead, it has relaxing effects. For instance, CBD can be beneficial for mental conditions like depression and anxiety, as well as physical conditions like joint pain, sore muscles, and seizures.
Humans can consume CBD in a variety of forms – everything from tinctures to capsules to gummies to topicals. But dogs are usually given CBD oil dog treats. These are simply dog treats that are infused with CBD.
Giving CBD to Dogs
The incredible thing about cannabinoids, specifically CBD, is that there’s a part of the body that’s made to function with these compounds. It’s known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and forms part of the body’s nervous system – it’s found in humans and dogs!
The way of giving CBD to dogs works is that when CBD enters the body, the ECS then attracts the CBD using receptors and distributes it all throughout the body on a chemical level. However, this process can be a little more complicated for dogs, which is why it’s important to know what type of product you’re giving your dog.
Unlike humans, dogs aren’t receptive to THC – one of the key components of marijuana. THC is responsible for the psychoactive properties associated with weed and is a toxic substance for dogs. This means that when looking for CBD dog treats you should be looking for items that contain less than 0.3% THC.
Benefits Giving CBD to Dogs for Treats
Like humans, dogs could also experience physical ailments with age or after sustaining an injury. According to research, it may also be helpful in the treatment of nausea, seizures, digestive issues, and arthritis.
In addition, dogs can experience fear, depression, and anxiety. For instance, many dogs feel anxious and scared during fireworks or in large crowds. Other dogs might develop depression, anxiety, or PTSD if they were rescued from a scarring, unhappy or uncomfortable housing situation.
Here are some reasons you should consider before giving CBD to dogs for treat.
Stress and Anxiety
One of the main CBD benefits for humans is the same for dogs. While we can’t ask a dog to complete a mental health survey, anecdotal evidence collected from dog owners suggests that CBD could help dogs deal with stress and anxiety.
Just like in humans, CBD appears to calm dogs down and makes it easier for them to sleep. This evidence aligns with a variety of human studies which have shown that CBD may help humans deal with anxiety issues.
Epileptic Seizures
Dogs can suffer from seizures and it’s believed that approximately 5% of dogs have issues related to epileptic seizures. There’s a growing body of evidence which suggests that CBD may work as an alternative treatment for epilepsy in dogs.
A study done by Colorado State University in 2018 did a clinical trial to determine if CBD treatment for canine epilepsy is a viable option. The preliminary report states that 89% of dogs who received CBD had a reduction in the frequency of seizures.
Arthritis and Joint Pain
As dogs age, they become more susceptible to joint pain and arthritis – just like humans. Osteoarthritis and joint pain are caused by inflammation, and CD contains compounds that may reduce chronic inflammation. This means that CBD may also be helpful in relieving joint pain and arthritis.
Pain Relief
Besides helping with inflammation-related pain, there’s evidence to suggest that CBD may be useful in alleviating general aches and pains. Unlike many traditional pain medications for dogs, CBD doesn’t have any life-threatening side effects.
As confirmed by a vet, CBD doesn’t damage the liver, kidney, or GI tract. The dogs don’t become sedated or high.
How Many CBD Treats Should You Give Your Dog?
The dosage requirement for CBD dog treats is more straightforward than it is for CBD oil because you don’t have to measure it out in a dropper. Furthermore, they are easier to administer to your furry friend because he just needs to eat a tasty treat. CBD oil, on the other hand, requires your dog to sit still while you need to drop the oil into his mouth – a lot more challenging.
For both CBD oil and CBD dog treats, the dosage requirements should be written on the package. You can use these merely as a guide, but you can start with less than the package advises to ensure your pup reacts well, and then slowly work up to the full dose.
Final Thoughts on CBD for Dogs
CBD can be a great option for any dog owner looking to help their furry friend through a challenging time. From stress and anxiety to pain and even seizures, CBD can be very helpful for your dogs health.
Check out PureKana for some of the best CBD dog treats on the market. Always be sure to talk with your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD.