CBD and Dogs: Why Hemp Oil Might be Good for Your Dog

Posted on November 20 2020

CBD may be good for people, but are CBD and your dog compatible? Well, you and your dog may have more in common than you realize. Like you, your dog has an endocannabinoid system (ECS). Every mammal, in fact, has receptors in its body for cannabinoids — chemical compounds that are found in hemp. When they interact with the ECS, these non-psychoactive compounds help govern the body’s appetite, sleep, mood and memory. This is why dogs and CBD oil are a good match. Let’s dig deeper and learn more about the benefits for dogs when using CBD oil.

Can Dogs Take Hemp Oil?

This is the first question we really need to address, and the answer is a resounding yes! Dogs can take hemp oil orally, in the same fashion as people. Using a CBD supplement can have benefits for dogs similar to those on humans, although there is less scientific evidence available on the subject. Still, there are a variety of benefits for dogs when using CBD oil.

Benefits and Effects Of CBD On Dogs

The ECS and cannabinoids are involved in how we fight inflammation. CBD also facilitates two-way communication among the systems in your body. Prior to the discovery of the ECS in the 1990s, scientists didn’t believe that this type of communication was even possible. Today they believe it may be the key that enables the ECS to keep the body in a balanced state of homeostasis.

While there haven’t been many scientific studies performed on dogs to show the effects of CBD, scientists do know that dogs have an endocannabinoid system similar to humans. The effects of CBD on dogs appear to be similar to humans: calming and relaxing. This means anxious dogs and CBD oil may make a great pair--as well as hyper or extremely active dogs who need CBD to keep their cool.

CBD and Dogs: Side Effects

Similar to the effects of CBD, the side effects of CBD on dogs isn’t well documented in the scientific community. It’s important to be aware of the risks and rewards of CBD, both for yourself and your pet. Fortunately, reported CBD side effects for dogs are fairly mild, including:

  • Dry Mouth
  • Diarrhea
  • Sluggishness

While this isn’t a comprehensive list, it’s up to you to decide if the many benefits of CBD outweigh the cons for your pup.

How Long Does CBD Affect Dogs?

There’s no exact answer to how long CBD affects dogs or how long the effects of CBD on dogs will be noticeable. There are a multitude of factors that determine how long the effects last, including diet, body weight and activity level. Generally, the effects of CBD last only a few hours. In terms of how long CBD stays in your pet’s system, it’s generally thought to be anywhere from three to ten days.

Learn More About How CBD Benefits You And Your Dog

You can see why supplementation with CBD can be such a healthful advantage. It's not about getting high, it's about maintaining good health, for your dog as well as for you. The relaxing effects of CBD are something you and your dog can enjoy together, so why not spend some time learning more about this amazing supplement? And if you’ve decided CBD is right for your pet--check out our selection of CBD oils today.