Should you try CBD for your dog?
Dog owners are all-too-familiar with the stress of seeing their pups in pain — and not knowing how to fix it. From arthritis to general aches and pains, there are many conditions that are difficult to treat. And when none of the traditional treatment options work, owners are starting to look for new, innovative ways to help.
One of those new treatment options is CBD treats.
CBD treats contain what’s called cannabidiol, an active ingredient in marijuana that does not cause a “high,” according to Harvard Health Publishing. It’s legal in every state (to different degrees) and has proven health benefits for humans, such as minimizing chronic pain and lessening epilepsy side effects.
For dogs, however, there are not a ton of proven long-term effects.
However, A study from Cornell University found that CBD oils can decrease the pain, and increase activity in canines. And a European study tested CBD on animal’s skin and found that it proved successful in lowering pain and inflammation due to arthritis. Preliminary data from a Colorado State University study also found that 89 percent of dogs who received CBD in the clinical trial showed a reduction in the frequency of seizures they have.
Dr. Katy Nelson, resident Veterinarian at Freshpet, tells Yahoo Lifestyle that increasing concerns about organic pet food ingredients are the main reason people are looking to CBD for their pets. “I think a lot of people are trying to look at CBD as a calming agent, or as something that's a natural way to ease pain in pets,” she explains.
Despite the lack of evidence for long-term benefits, Nelson says she’s heard a lot of anecdotal evidence supporting CBD pet products — specifically to help with fears of fireworks. “The main thing I tell people right now is to look for organic and look for the tinctures,” she says. “I can say I'm hopeful we get some really good information about it.”
Erin Askeland, a certified professional dog trainer — who has an elder dog with chronic pain — believes CBD is a hopeful option. “I decided to put him on CBD personally after doing a lot of research, talking to my vet because he's older and he's got arthritis and he's been on other medications, he's done injections, we do physical therapy,” she explained. “We do everything and I have personally seen a good effect for him, but that was a personal choice, that was best for him (he's 13) so I'm not as worried about those long-term effects, but that was a personal choice.”
Askeland, who also is a behavioral consultant for Camp Bow Wow, used an Honest Paws product for her pup. But she also recommends HolistaPet, King Kanine, Smart Hemp and Canna-Pet for CBD products.
Honest Paws Relief Formula
Shop it: Honest Paws Relief Formula, $25, Amazon.com
“It's important to make sure if your dog's on any other medications, to talk to your vet about it just to be sure,” she advises. “Do your research, look at the companies; talk to people who have used the product, talk to their reps, look what's in the ingredients, look at where they're sourcing those ingredients.”
It’s important to keep an eye on your dog after they consume any CBD products for the first time.
Askeland advises owners to look out for the following warning signs:
excessive drooling, panting, licking or chewing
abnormal pacing
major appetite changes
Below, some other CBD dog treats you could try:
NaturVet Hemp Allergy Aid Plus Hemp Seed Dog Soft Chews
Promising review: “My lab had been having discharge from his eye and once I started the chews it literally cleared up in a day. I initially bought it because he licks his paws a lot and was hoping it alleviated that issue. It has helped a little bit but he still does lick his paws, just not as often.”
Shop it: NaturVet Hemp Allergy Aid Plus Hemp Seed Dog Soft Chews, $23, Chewy.com
Hemp Peanut Butter Flavor Soft Chews Dog Supplement, 90 count
Promising review: “My pit mix Evie has severe separation anxiety and anxiety from storms/loud thunder/lightning cracking. Evie usually hides under the bathroom vanity or under the comforter on the bed and just shakes...This product just gave her some anxiety relief and some chill. This is the first storm she didn't wind up under something shaking in fear. Thanks Zesty Paws. Great Product !!!!!”
Shop it: Hemp Peanut Butter Flavor Soft Chews Dog Supplement, 90 count, $30 (Was $50), Chewy.com
Ultra Oil Skin & Coat Supplement with Hempseed Oil
Promising review: “I am so happy with this product so far. I have only used it for about a week but my super picky dog seems to love it!! I have not seen him attack his kibble with so much enthusiasm in a while. I also am not sure if this is one of the effects of the Ultra oil but I have noticed significant improvement to the smell of my dog's poop. Since this is the only change made to his diet recently, I have to assume that the oil helped with the smell somehow? The oil has no fishy smell, is easy to use.”
Shop it: Ultra Oil Skin & Coat Supplement with Hempseed Oil, $24, Chewy.com
Wellness Oil
Promising information: “Crafted using natural growing practices to deliver a blend of active ingredients that support a healthy system, this formula is safe, gentle, and effective. Provides naturally occurring antioxidants, is gluten free, non-GMO, and vegan.”
Shop it: Wellness Oil, $55, max-bone.com
Canna Medis Premium Hemp Oil for Dogs with Anxiety, Cancer, Arthritis, Pain, Seizures, Inflammation
Promising review: “Our golden retriever hasn’t had any seizures since we started him on the oil 3 weeks ago! So far so good. We hope he continues to get better. We are pleased with this product and will definitely purchase more. It’s very easy to use... just a few sprays into his dog food twice a day and that’s it. He seems more calm and relaxed since we started the hemp oil treatment.”
Shop it: Canna Medis Premium Hemp Oil for Dogs with Anxiety, Cancer, Arthritis, Pain, Seizures, Inflammation, $50, Amazon.com
The editors at Yahoo Lifestyle are committed to finding you the best products at the best prices. At times, we may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
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