Anxiety is a really pesky mental issue that can ruin every happy moment you have by making you feel scared for no reason at all. We, as humans, can find a lot of ways to keep anxiety under control – meditation, exercise, therapy, diet, etc.
When it comes to our K9 friends, they are in a bit more of a pinch than us. Unlike humans, they can’t reason their way to a solution, so it’s up to the owner to help them. It’s a big obligation and responsibility to have, but we love our dogs, and we will go to amazing lengths to help them out.
Dogs most commonly develop anxiety as a consequence of abuse or separation, and if you notice the symptoms, you might want to give them CBD oil dogs can use, and here is why.
The effects of CBD oil on dogs
Most CBD oils are extracted from hemp and are completely legal to buy if they meet proposed standards in the EU and the US. They are completely safe for human consumption and may help with resolving issues like chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, insomnia, and many others.
When it comes to dogs, they can reap similar benefits from consuming CBD oil since they have the endocannabinoid system (ECS) as well. Unlike humans, they can’t tolerate THC very well, so make sure that the oil you give them doesn’t contain it. THC can cause anxiety attacks with humans, let alone dogs who have issues already.
The ECS is responsible for regulating the nervous system and the immune system, but if it’s fed by the right dosage of CBD, it can help alleviate the effects of anxiety.
Can dogs use CBD oil intended for humans?
The short answer is “Yes.” The long answer is “Yes, but it can be problematic to do.”
Namely, the CBD oil intended for human use is a bit stronger than that for animals. Also, the labeling, which usually tells us how to dose the oil, is calculated for an average human. This means that you’ll have to do the calculations yourself before actually giving your dog a dose.
Furthermore, human oil variants tend to have added flavors in forms of artificial sweeteners and other substances, most of which dogs can’t process properly. Make sure that your dog can safely take the ingredients shown on the label, and you should be safe.
Still, if you are unsure about any of the aspects presented above, you should go out and find CBD oil specifically designed for dogs.
How do I give my dog CBD?
We already mentioned that flavors are added to CBD oil, and the reason why is because the oil itself has an unpleasant taste.
There are specialized treats treated with CBD out there, but you needn’t buy it. You can simply give them their dose mixed in with their food, so they don’t notice it. Another option is to buy specialized dog CBD oil, which is usually flavored with something that dogs will go for, like bacon.
A reminder, ensure that your dosage is on point. Most people are careful with dosing in the beginning, but as it turns into a routine, they tend to become negligent – don’t let this happen to you.
When can I expect the results to kick in?
Well, like with most medication, it takes some time to see the effects. Furthermore, it’s hard to notice the effects if you are not paying attention as the dog can’t really communicate if it feels less anxious.
Usually, after a week or so, the dog should start being calmer and less stressed. Still, this depends on dog size and the severity of its condition.
Make sure you are consistent with giving the dog the medicine as not sticking to the prescribed treatment. Having gaps in your schedule may impact the effectiveness of the oil and can delay the beneficial effects it has. Also, inconsistent dosing can be a factor in delaying the effects of the oil.
Conclusion
If your dog is suffering from anxiety and you want to help them get back on track, CBD oil is a good option. Still, dealing with this issue isn’t something that you can resolve with medication alone.
Make sure you give the dog no reason to be scared and give them a lot of love. Having a stable environment is important for dogs that are facing these issues, and we need to do our best to make them feel safe.
Of course, before you start giving the dog oil, make sure you consult your vet. Getting a professional opinion is always a good idea before you make a move like this one.
We hope your dog gets better and that you find the right way to help them get there.
