The use of CBD (cannabidiol) products for dogs is gaining traction among pet owners seeking natural remedies for issues such as anxiety, pain, and inflammation. However, veterinarians stress the importance of consulting a professional before introducing these products to a pet's regimen.
Dr. Colleen Lambo, a veterinarian at The Vets mobile vet clinic, advises that the first step for any pet owner considering CBD should be a visit to their veterinarian. This assessment is crucial to determine the pet's medical condition and ensure CBD is a safe and appropriate option. Vets may suggest prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or CBD, depending on the individual needs of the animal.
CBD is a compound derived from the hemp plant, distinct from THC. While it can be used by both humans and pets, formulations and dosages differ significantly. Pet-specific brands are essential, and owners should never share their own CBD products with their pets. "CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp plants. It has become popular for its potential health benefits in both humans and pets," Lambo explained. "For pets, CBD is commonly used to help with issues such as anxiety, pain, inflammation, and seizures. However, it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving your pet any CBD products to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs."
Potential benefits of CBD for dogs, as studied for therapeutic effects, include reducing anxiety, improving joint mobility and comfort, and managing seizures. It may also possess anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. However, the efficacy and appropriate dosage can vary. "The recommended dose of CBD for adult dogs can vary depending on factors such as weight, age, overall health, and individual tolerance," Lambo noted. "In general, it is recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed. Some products may provide dosage instructions based on weight or age ranges, but again, it is best to consult with a veterinarian before administering any CBD products to your dog."
When selecting a CBD brand for pets, veterinarians recommend prioritizing sourcing and testing consistency. As the CBD market is not heavily regulated, reputable companies often self-regulate by using consistent crop sources and conducting frequent testing to verify product potency. Lambo also advises considering the product type: water-soluble options may be faster-acting but require refrigeration, while oil-soluble products may take longer to build up in the system. Pet owners should also be mindful of taste, ensuring products do not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
"Your veterinarian may have a CBD product that will work best for your pet, or know a reliable company in the area," Lambo suggested.
Several brands offer pet-specific CBD products. Lillie & Lee's Full Spectrum CBD Oil is noted for its clean formula and third-party testing. Cornbread Hemp's Full Spectrum CBD Oil for Pets uses organic, Kentucky-grown hemp and a unique Flower-Only extraction method. CBDistillery offers a CBD Pet line with full-spectrum CBD oil tinctures. Zesty Paws Calming Bites are available as chews and sticks, incorporating ingredients like hemp seed, chamomile, and melatonin. Lazarus Naturals provides a trio of products for calm, digestion, and immune support, including a CBD Pet Tincture with salmon oil and calming CBD chews. CBDFx offers CBD oils, tinctures, and balms for pets, with discounts available for subscribers. Bailey's provides a variety of CBD products beyond ingestibles, such as shampoos and paw balms. ThunderWorks offers bite-sized hemp calming chews. ElleVet Sciences is known for its CBD and CBDA dog chews, available in flavors like peanut butter, as well as capsules and oils. Honest Paws offers Calm Hemp Bites and a Hemp Oil for smaller dogs, free from common allergens. Charlotte's Web provides canine formulas for coat, skin, joints, and mood in chew and tincture forms. HolistaPet offers a range of CBD products for dogs, cats, and horses, including oils, chews, and treats, with varying strengths and veterinary formulation.