CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of over a hundred cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Unlike illegal marijuana, industrial hemp plants used to make CBD products have extremely low traces of the psychoactive chemical THC. This means that CBD oils have no chance of causing a ‘high’ normally experienced with marijuana use.

CBD for dogs, much in the same way as humans is typically an oil that can be used for a range of wellness benefits, with many users noting reduced levels of anxiety and pain. 

CBD reacts with cannabinoid receptors which form part of the nervous system and are found in humans, dogs, cats and a number of other animals. These cannabinoid receptors are involved in a number of physiological experiences, including pain sensation, memory and appetite. When CBD interacts with these receptors, they can help reduce feelings of pain and also alleviate anxiety.

As dogs have an endocannabinoid system, it is safe to give them CBD oil. However, it’s really important to ensure the dosage is right to ensure your dog doesn’t take too much and suffer from often avoidable side-effects. Generally, CBD oils made for humans are at a higher dosage level than those suitable for dogs, so it’s best to get your pet their own product to be safest.

CBD dosage is measured by weight, which is why humans generally take a much higher concentration than their pets and why bigger dogs will need more CBD to feel the effects. The products we stock at Miracle Leaf are differentiated by dosage size and include guidelines on which concentration will best suit your size pet. 

We also stock CBD treats to give you an easy understanding of portion control to best ensure the safety of your pet.

Check the product details of the product you’re interested in for more information on whether it’s suitable for your pet.

The timing of doses will depend on what you are giving your dog CBD for. CBD for chronic pain management is generally given every eight hours to ensure your dog’s pain is alleviated regularly. CBD for anxiety needs fewer doses, but is generally best at around two doses a day.

If you are planning on giving your dog CBD for a long period of time, your pet could start to build up their tolerance level, so you may need to gradually increase their dose so they continue feeling the benefits.

Just like with humans, people give their dogs CBD for a variety of benefits. CBD and its carrier oils, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil, can provide benefits for psychological and physiological issues. 

CBD itself has been found to reduce feelings of anxiety in pets, as well as manage seizures and insomnia. CBD can also provide relief for chronic pain conditions, including arthritis and inflammation.

CBD and hemp oil are also excellent sources of fatty acids and essential vitamins that can soothe and moisturise skin, as well as reduce redness. 

However, owing to CBD’s restricted access until recently, studies around the actual benefits of CBD are inconclusive, so these benefits are anecdotal and will likely differ for each user. 

CBD isn’t toxic to dogs, so there’s no danger of overdosing from use. That being said, side effects can occur if you give your dog too much, so always stay within the recommended dose and take care to slowly up the dosage if necessary.

Some common side-effects you might notice if your dog has had too much CBD:

• dry mouth or increased thirst
• drowsiness
• upset stomach
• low blood pressure
• tremors

If you notice your dog has reacted badly to their CBD, it’s recommended you drop their dosage, stop giving them CBD and contact your vet if you are uncertain about anything.