CBD products for dogs

Hemp products are becoming more and more popular these days – the taboo topic „cannabis“ is over!

But can hemp or cannabis also help my four-legged friend? Can I even feed it to my darling?

Definitely yes!

Because hemp not only has a calming and partly helpful effect on humans, but also on other mammals, such as dogs.

But is hemp even legal?!

There are now legal hemp products on the market. These are made from cannabis or chemical compounds (cannabinoids) such as CBD. These legalized CBD products consist of a cannabidiol (CBD for short).

The special feature is: although this extract is obtained from the controversial hemp plant (more precisely from female hemp), it does not have any psychoactive effects! And is therefore perfectly legal.

On the other hand, the cannabinoid THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is psychoactive. Along with CBD, it is one of the best-known cannabinoids. However, it is not legal compared to CBD due to the known “high” effects it produces in humans. In Germany, it falls under the Narcotics Act and may only be used legally for demonstrably medical purposes.

Although THC is contained in CBD products, it is not psychogenic. The THC content in CBD products is less than 0.2% and is therefore too low to produce a psychoactive effect. The reason for this is that only plants with a THC content of less than 0.2% may be used for the production of CBD.

Tip: In Germany you can buy the cannabinoid CBD legally and without a prescription.

Is Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oil the Same?

No. Hemp seed oil and CBD oil are often mistakenly used interchangeably. Correctly seen, however, they are two completely different products.

Compared to CBD oil, hemp seed oil or hemp oil is not made from the leaves and flowers but from the seeds of the hemp plant and finds its main use in the kitchen. Cold pressing creates the oily consistency. It only contains nutrients such as omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids and is also said to support the heart and immune system, but there is no medical evidence of its effectiveness. The reason for this is that the cannabidiol is missing.

CBD oil, on the other hand, contains cannabidiol and is made from the leaves and flowers of the female hemp plant. Unlike hemp oil, it is not a by-product but a main product. In addition, a medically positive effect has been scientifically proven.

Tip: CBD oil and hemp oil differ in terms of their chemical composition. Simply check the ingredients and see if they contain cannabinoids.

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil is one of the dietary supplements and is said to have calming, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and cell-protecting properties.

CBD is used as an abbreviation for a cannabidiol and consists of the natural part of a female hemp plant. For this purpose, the herbal hemp active ingredient is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the plant.

CBD oil is often made on the basis of a carrier oil with the addition of the hemp extract cannabidiol. For example, hemp oil is often used as a carrier oil, but B.MCT is also used.

Tip: CBD oils are not psychoactive! Not even in animals such as dogs or cats. However, when used for animals, it is important to ensure that the CBD product has a THC content of less than 0.2%. In addition, CBD oils, for example, are specially made for dogs with additives that are supposed to make them more palatable.

Are there differences in CBD oils?

Definitely yes. There are special oils for different complaints but also different purposes. In addition, a distinction is made between use for humans and dogs. The CBD content of the product plays an important role here, because oils intended for human consumption have a content of between 5-20%. For dogs, oils should contain maximum concentrations of 2-10%.

The most fundamental difference in CBD oils for dogs is the CBD content. The oils suitable for driving in dogs are classified into a 5% or 10% content. However, there are also other intermediate levels, for example between 2% and 10%.

Which oil is used for the dog depends on several factors. For example, on the size or weight of the animal, but also on the reaction after ingestion.

What are the differentiating criteria for oils for dogs?

1. The CBD concentration

– indicated by the percentage
– it indicates the concentration of cannabidiol in the product
– for a big dog (> 20kg) a higher percentage of 10% is recommended. Smaller dogs should be given more of a 5% oil
– high percentages are also suitable, for example, for a potentially helpful application for more serious diseases such as cancer

1. full spectrum

A full spectrum refers to extracts that not only contain CBD, but also the remaining cannabinoids of the hemp plant – including THC (>0.2%)! – not necessarily suitable for dogs!

2. broadband spectrum

This refers to CBD products that also contain other terpenes and cannabinoids, but no THC – not necessarily suitable for dogs!

3. isolate

Isolates contain only cannabidiol, i.e. no THC and no other terpenes. This makes it tasteless and odorless

4. carrier oil

This is the basis of the oil. Olive oil, MCT oil, hemp seed oil or black cumin oil are often used for this. However, the oil base does not affect the effect. On the other hand, the taste is completely influenced. Dogs often prefer MCT-based CBD products, as these are considered tasteless.

Tip: broadband spectrum and full spectrum are not necessarily suitable for dogs! Such products can contain toxic essential oils for the dog!

How does CBD work?

The effect of CBD is versatile. On the one hand, there are reports of anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory effects, but on the other hand there are also reports of effects on anxiety (psychosis, stress, sleep disorders, etc.) or even nausea, which the product can relieve. In a nutshell: CBD has a relaxing and anti-inflammatory effect on the body.

Such positive effects can also occur in dogs. This is because, similar to humans, dogs have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which means that cannabinoids are also found in the dog’s body. This EC system represents a connection system between the brain and the organism and enables interaction and support with CBD products. This can have a positive influence on the biological balance.

Administered CBD can interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to couple to immune or nervous system cells and thus strengthen the immune system or fight inflammation. In addition, cannabidiol interacts with glycerol receptors and can thus reduce the sensation of pain. Taking CBD can also lead to a release of the messenger substances norepinephrine and dopamine, which have an equally pain-relieving effect. In this way, neuropathic pain in particular can be combated very well.

Tip: CBD oil leads to calmness and relaxation in dogs. Other positive effects are, for example, pain relief, stabilization of the immune system, improvement of neurological functions as well as mobility and activity. The gastrointestinal tract is also supported.

Which complaints in dogs can be reduced by CBD?

In general, CBD oil is said to have a calming, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and cell-protecting effect. This means that symptoms or illnesses such as…

• anxiety and stress

Animals that often suffer from anxiety and stress can benefit from the gift, as CBD has a relaxing effect. This is triggered by active receptors in the brain responsible for stress reduction, balance and calm. For example, on New Year’s Eve, a CBD dose can be recommended!

• insomnia

Since CBD has a very relaxing and calming effect, problems with insomnia can also be improved.

• cancer and tumors

CBD is said to inhibit the growth of cancer cells or even tumors, since CBD is said to contain an anti- carcinogenic component . These are said to have the gift of being able to inhibit the growth of malignant cells, since so-called killer cells could be activated. These killer cells fight the cancer cells and can lead to their death. This could support the effectiveness of conventional control measures, as the immune system is stimulated in the long term. It should be noted, however, that there are no direct studies on the success of treatment or healing of cancer! Only individual results indicate a positive effect.

• epilepsy

Epilepsy or epileptic seizures can be reduced or even prevented by CBD, as the misguided processes in the brain are regulated. The functionality of the nervous system is also supported, which can also contribute to reducing symptoms.

• Nausea / indigestion / vomiting

CBD can provide strong support for nausea. Especially with cancer therapies, symptoms of nausea often occur, which can be reduced by the administration of CBD.

• pains

Through the interaction of CBD with pain receptors and nervous system cells, pain can be alleviated in the long term.

• arthrosis

The pain-relieving effect can greatly reduce side effects of arthrosis.

• inflammation

By coupling to immune and nervous system cells, inflammation can be reduced or combated.

… could be treated in a supportive manner and possibly higher chances of recovery could be achieved

Tip: While CBD is not a miracle cure or panacea, it can successfully help alleviate many symptoms or ailments and make your dog’s everyday life easier! Especially stress or anxiety can be positively influenced.

How can I give CBD products to my dog?

This depends entirely on your loved one. Depending on how sensitive the animal is, oil can be given directly or mixed into the feed.

• Sublingual:

This is very simple. For a direct and quick effect, it is best to put it under the animal’s tongue. To do this, simply carefully open the mouth and lift the tongue slightly so that the oil can be applied to the mucous membrane with the help of a pipette. This allows it to get directly into the bloodstream and after about twenty to forty minutes the cannabidiol unfolds its full effect. This lasts up to five hours.

• Feed or Swallow:

If the dog finds it difficult to touch the mouth or lip area, it is best to mix the cannabidiol with the food. For example under the daily ration or on a treat. However, pieces of ham or similar are also ideal. In addition, there are now also so-called “hemp cookies” or “CBDog cookies”. When given orally with the help of food or treats, the effect usually only develops after one to two hours and lasts for up to eight hours.

• Topical:

However, there are also non-internal applications. To do this, simply mix the CBD oil into creams or ointments or apply it directly to the fur or skin. However, this method has the longest onset of action. The body can only absorb the cannabinoids after almost an hour or even longer and process them for up to six hours. If the coat is thick, the cream or ointment should be applied as close to the skin as possible.

Tip: The best possible effect is unfolded after a longer period of use! Therefore, dogs should be given a CBD product for at least three weeks. The reason for this is that the full effect often only occurs after three weeks.

When do I give my dog CBD oil? And how many times a day?

If CBD oil is to be administered for pain or as a continuous therapy, a dose every eight hours is recommended. Alternatively, two to three times a day.

For insomnia, the CBD oil can be given just before going to bed.

In the case of anxiety or stress, the dose can be determined individually. In such situations, the CBD oil can be administered immediately so that the dog experiences a calming effect.

A vitalizing effect can be achieved with a morning dose.

Are side effects known to dogs when given CBD?

In general, very few side effects are known, and they only occur very rarely. But as with everything, individual differences can be recognized, because every animal and every body reacts differently!

However, known side effects occur only very rarely and to a very low degree and usually subside quickly.

Known side effects include:

• Dry oral mucosa:

The saliva production can be reduced, so that the dog may have an increased need for water and thus drink a little more than usual

• Lowered blood pressure:

Blood pressure can be temporarily lowered with a very high dose of cannabidiol

• Sleepiness:

Higher doses in particular often lead to increased sleepiness due to the relaxing effect

However, it is essential to consult the veterinarian before giving CBD products if the dog is already on medication! This is to prevent unwanted interactions with prescribed drugs.

Tip: Long-term applications are not necessarily recommended, so a one-week break should be taken after three months.

Are there alternatives to CBD oils?

YES! There are many more CBD products out there. For example dog biscuits, paw balm, creams or crystals.

It is crucial here what the product is to be used for. In addition, there are also the preferences of the respective four-legged friend, because animals affected with complaints often do not want to be touched.

The dog biscuits or hemp cookies are ideal for simple and uncomplicated consumption. These come in a variety of flavors and shapes. The only disadvantage is that the dosage is difficult to determine and the effect only occurs after some time.

The paw balm or the creams are ideal for heavily stressed paws or for skin diseases. For example, they can treat skin rashes, allergic reactions or even arthritis. However, dogs often like to lick these products before they can take effect

But there are also CBD capsules or CBD globules, which are considered a good alternative and cannot be distinguished from oil in their effect. Above all, these products are suitable for sensitive patients who do not like their own taste. This can be optimally bypassed here.

Where can I purchase CBD oil?

• pharmacy
• vet
• CBD shop
• Online shop

Where you want to buy your product is entirely up to you. There are many different ways to buy CBD oils. However, you should definitely pay attention to a sufficiently good quality!