CBD has long been studied in humans for a wide range of conditions, including anxiety and pain, but very little research has been done on the use of this plant-based compound for dogs. However, emerging studies indicate that CBD may provide a number of benefits for pets, including relief from inflammation, sleeplessness, nausea, and seizures.
It has been shown that CBD reduces inflammatory response in dogs by blocking the production of cytokines such as TNF-a, IL-6, and IL-10. It also suppresses the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and NF-kB. It also has an anti-epileptic effect on the brain and lungs, which can help control the seizures associated with epilepsy in dogs.
A few of the most common ailments in dogs that CBD can help with include allergies, arthritis, cancer, seizures, and muscle spasms. There are some risks of using CBD for dogs, so be sure to speak with your veterinarian before starting a new treatment plan.
Allergies are one of the most common reasons for vet visits in dogs, and cbd for dogs is effective at reducing the symptoms of these conditions such as itching, scratching, rashes, and breathing problems. It can also provide some pain relief and help regulate the immune system.
The safest way to use CBD for dogs is via an oil or tincture. These are easy to administer, just put a small amount of the product in your dog’s food or water and let them drink it down.
As with any medication or supplement, you should always start with a small dose and slowly increase the amount over time. If you notice your pet displaying any negative effects, such as excessive panting, lethargy, or vomiting, stop the dosage and visit your vet.
Arthritis
Some dogs have trouble walking because of arthritis, and CBD has been shown to be helpful in this condition. A study on 22 dogs with different breeds showed that CBD significantly reduced pain and improved mobility.
Inflammatory Conditions
Chronic inflammation is a major cause of pain, fatigue, and poor quality of life in dogs. A handful of studies show that CBD has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help ease arthritic symptoms, especially in older animals.
Seizures
While limited research exists on the use of CBD for seizures, a few studies suggest that it can control idiopathic seizures in dogs. This benefit is only seen when CBD is given in combination with traditional anti-seizure medications, so it is important to talk with your veterinarian before trying this drug on your dog.
Liver Toxicity
Although CBD is considered to be a relatively safe drug in most healthy pets, it has been shown to elevate an important liver enzyme called alkaline phosphatase. While this may have no clinical significance, it is something to discuss with your vet if you have a pet that is taking other anticonvulsants such as phenytoin or clonidine.
Ingestion of large amounts of CBD, even in small doses, can lead to gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea, vomiting, and lethargy. These signs should resolve with time, so if you think your pet has eaten too much CBD, contact your vet immediately to get them checked out.