Can CBD Help Dogs With Nervousness? What the Research Says
Airi Macaluso
Medical Hemp Expert, Hemp Wellness Consultant, and Long-Time Cannabinoid Writer
Just like us humans, our canine pals can sometimes feel nervous or jittery.
With the rising curiosity surrounding the potential wellness-supporting aspects of CBD products, many pet parents are looking into CBD oil for dogs as a way to help their four-legged friends chill out.
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis and hemp plants, is known for its calming influence on both people and pets. In this article, we’ll dive into the reasons behind our doggos’ nerves, the role of the endocannabinoid system in their well-being, and how CBD might lend a paw to your furry companion’s peace of mind.
What Makes Dogs Nervous?
Our pups can get antsy for various reasons, such as being away from their owner, fear of loud noises (like thunderstorms or fireworks), or being exposed to someone or something they had a bad experience with in the past.
Dogs may also feel uneasy during car rides, when meeting new humans or critters, or when confronted with new surroundings. Sometimes, underlying health concerns or joint discomfort can add to these uneasy feelings, making them more agitated or nervous.
Genetics and early life encounters can also influence a dog’s tendency to be nervous — certain breeds may be more prone to this nervousness, and dogs with a history of neglect or mistreatment could be more susceptible to feelings of distrust and uneasiness (can you blame them?).
Identifying the root cause of this nervousness is key to determining the best way to help them. Behavioral modification techniques or professional dog training can be useful in some cases. However, many pet parents are turning to holistic options like pet CBD oil to support their dog’s emotional balance and overall health.
How Does the Endocannabinoid System Affect Mood?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is essential for keeping balance and managing various physiological processes in our bodies, including mood, appetite, and immune system function. Both humans and dogs have an ECS, made up of endocannabinoids, enzymes, and receptors (CB1 and CB2). The ECS interacts with cannabinoids like CBD, influencing the nervous system and encouraging a sense of ease and well-being.
CBD has been demonstrated to indirectly affect serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood. By boosting the ECS’s function, CBD may help dogs handle stressors and ease nervous behaviors resulting in a calming effect.
Moreover, CBD’s potential calming properties could help with other issues that might be contributing to a dog’s nervousness. Pet parents who’ve tried CBD oil for their dogs have seen positive effects like relaxed moods, supported sleep quality, and balanced overall health.
When thinking about CBD for your dog, it’s crucial to pick top-quality, lab-tested products free from nasty additives, pesticides, and contaminants. Go for full spectrum CBD oil for dogs derived from non-GMO, organically-grown hemp to make sure your fur baby gets the best product possible.
What’s the Scoop on CBD Research and Canine Nervousness?
Studies on CBD’s potential health benefits for how our dogs feel are in their infancy, but some have certainly shown encouraging results. While these studies are promising, it’s crucial to consider their limitations.
Many existing studies have small sample sizes, which may limit their broader applicability — so it’s clear that more research on the topic is still needed. Resident Veritas Farms CBD expert Airi Macaluso notes that most researchers agree that CBD is well tolerated in dogs, even with long-term use.
Time for the good news — as CBD regulations keep evolving, we can expect more and more research in the upcoming years to shed light on CBD’s safety, effectiveness, and suitable servings for dogs dealing with uneasiness.
How To Pick the Perfect CBD Product for Your Nervous Pup
When scouting out the best CBD oil for dogs, keep these factors in mind:
Type of CBD
It’s generally best to choose between full spectrum hemp extract, packed with all the good stuff like cannabinoids and terpenes, or broad spectrum CBD oil, which is THC-free. CBD isolates, containing only cannabidiol, are another choice, but they might not offer the same synergistic benefits as full spectrum or broad spectrum products.
“It’s also important to choose a CBD product specifically formulated for pets. Some CBD products intended for human consumption will contain sweeteners or flavorings that aren’t safe for your pup. Your dog doesn’t need their CBD to taste sweet. Its natural earthy flavor blends perfectly with their dog food,” notes Macaluso.
Source and Quality
Go for organic CBD productsmade in the USA, ensuring the hemp is grown without pesticides and harmful chemicals.
These products should also have third-party lab testing to confirm they’re free from heavy metals, solvents, and contaminants to ensure they’re the highest quality possible
Servings
Start with a low amount of CBD and gradually increase it based on your dog’s weight and needs. Ask your vet for advice on the right amount of CBD for your fur baby, and remember that the effects of CBD can be different for each dog, so patience and observation are crucial.
Administration Method
Tinctures and CBD dog chews are popular ways to give CBD to nervous dogs. A dropper can help you measure out the correct amount, while MCT oil or coconut oil may boost absorption. If you choose CBD drops, you can always add a serving to their favorite snack and craft your own CBD dog treats!
Topical CBD products are also available for localized benefits, but they won’t address any general feelings of unease your pup might be coping with (or not coping with). Macaluso highlights that you can use topical CBD products in conjunction with ingestible CBD products to maximize relief for your pup who might be dealing with joint discomfort or sensitive skin.
Reviews and Recommendations
Look for positive reviews from fellow dog owners and ask your veterinarian for their honest opinion on trustworthy brands. It’s important to choose a company that values transparency, customer satisfaction, and pet health.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of Using CBD for Nervous Dogs?
While CBD is typically safe for dogs, fur parents should be aware of possible side effects and risks. Some dogs might experience mild side effects like dry mouth, sleepiness, or diarrhea — but these symptoms are usually temporary and can generally be reduced by adjusting your dog’s CBD serving size.
It’s always key to make sure that the CBD product you choose has less than 0.3% THC. This small amount will help fuel the entourage effect, enhancing the benefits of your pet’s CBD product without putting their health at risk. Always look for third-party lab test results that confirm the product’s quality, purity, and absence of heavy metals, solvents, and other contaminants.
Another potential risk is giving your dog too much CBD, which can lead to increased side effects. While you may not see yourself giving your pup one too many CBD chews, you might want to take an extra level of care if you have kids in the house who might get carried away. After all, what kid doesn’t love giving their doggy friend a special snack?
Keep your dog’s CBD products somewhere where your little ones can’t get to them without you around, and always make sure to follow the serving suggestions on the package.
In rare instances, CBD may interact with other medications your dog is taking, potentially causing adverse reactions. That’s why it’s important to have a chat with your veterinarian before introducing CBD to your dog’s routine, especially if they’re already on medication for other health issues.
Do Vets Support CBD for Nervous Pets?
The idea of using CBD for nervous pets has caught the attention of veterinarians. Although scientific research on CBD’s effect on a dog’s mood is limited, many vets have seen positive results and are open to recommending CBD as an extra treatment.
Keep in mind that the FDA hasn’t yet approved CBD for pets, so some vets may be hesitant to suggest it due to limited research. CBD laws move much faster for people than they do for our pets. Airi Macaluso highlights that “The law currently limits a veterinarian’s ability to recommend CBD to their pet patients. Even if your vet genuinely believes CBD would be a great addition to your dog’s holistic wellness routine, they may not be able to tell you outright.”
However, personal stories and a growing number of studies on CBD’s potential benefits for dogs, including its calming and soothing effects, have encouraged some vets to suggest trying CBD as a natural alternative to traditional medicines. Hemp seed oil, rich in healthy fats, might also improve a dog’s overall well-being.
Before starting your furry friend on CBD, talk to your vet to determine the right amount, discuss possible side effects, and make sure it doesn’t interfere with any existing medications your dog might be taking.
Be ready with questions about the right CBD amount and any other concerns. Your vet can guide you through the process and might even suggest a top-quality CBD oil made just for pets.
What Other Natural Ways and Methods Can Help Calm Nervous Dogs?
Besides CBD, there are other natural ways and methods to help comfort your pup:
- Calming supplements: Products with ingredients like L-theanine, chamomile, and valerian root could help relax dogs. These supplements can be given as chews or mixed into your dog’s food.
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils like lavender and cedarwood, when used safely and diluted, can create a soothing atmosphere for your pet. Make sure you use pet-safe oils and talk to your vet about proper usage.
- Physical touch: Gentle massage or pressure wraps, like a Thundershirt, can comfort nervous dogs. These techniques work by applying gentle, steady pressure to help dogs feel more secure during stressful situations.
- Environmental changes: Create a safe, quiet space for your dog with their favorite toys and bedding, and use white noise or calming music to reduce the impact of loud noises. Providing a consistent routine and plenty of exercise can also help ease uneasiness.
- Training and behavior modification: Consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist to create strategies to help your dog deal with feelings of stress. Techniques like counter-conditioning, desensitization, and positive reinforcement can teach your dog to connect previously stressful situations with positive experiences.
Is CBD the Best Solution for Your Furry Friend?
Deciding whether CBD is the best option for your furry friend depends on how bad they’re feeling, any underlying health issues, and their response to other treatments. Talking with your vet is crucial to ensure that CBD is a safe and appropriate option for your pet’s unique needs.
If you decide to try CBD for your dog, make sure to choose a high-quality CBD oil from a trusted brand that offers lab results and a money-back guarantee. Always start with a low amount and closely watch your dog’s health and behavior. With patience, persistence, and professional guidance, CBD may provide the relief and support your dog’s needs to live a happy, healthy life.
If you’re ready to explore the world of CBD for your furry friend today, then you can browse our wide range of CBD products for dogs.
Sources:
Pets on Pot—Just High or Highly Dangerous? | College of Veterinary Medicine at MSU
CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know | AKC
FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD) | FDA
CBD: What You Need To Know About Its Uses and Efficacy | Cornell University
Dog Owners’ Use and Perceptions of Cannabis Products | Ahvma
FDA Continues To ‘Caution’ Pet Owners About Pet CBD Products | The Canine Review
Dog Anxiety: 7 Reasons Your Dog May Be Stressed—and What to Do About It | Reader’s Digest
