I’ve been writing about CBD for dogs (or Cannabidiol) for the past few years. It’s a relatively new product that is being used to treat conditions like anxiety, seizures and inflammation in dogs and cats. While there are many benefits associated with this non-psychoactive compound, it can be tricky to know how much to give your pet to achieve optimal results.
In my experience, most people who aren’t familiar with CBD use the recommended dose of 1 mg/kg (which means one milligram per kilogram). That seems like a lot, but keep reading and I’ll explain why you might want to adjust it down a bit. In addition, I also break down what we know about the effects of CBD on different breeds of dogs.
The Basics: What Is CBD?
Cannabis sativa, or hemp, has long been known for its medicinal properties. In fact, cannabis was once used as medicine in China more than 2,000 years ago. Today, the same plant is still used for its powerful healing properties. This includes its ability to relieve pain and stress, which is why it’s so popular among people looking for natural remedies.
While some strains of hemp may contain more THC (the chemical responsible for getting you high), others may not have any at all. In fact, some companies will even put “zero” amount of THC in their products. However, they don’t need to do that because CBD has a very low level of THC.
This means that CBD is completely legal in every state due to the FDA’s approval process. This is important to note since some states allow you to bring marijuana into their homes without a prescription while other states ban it outright. You should always consult your local laws before purchasing any CBD products if you’re unsure.
What Does CBD Do?
As mentioned above, CBD has been used to help manage chronic medical issues such as arthritis and epilepsy. However, there are many other applications for CBD including wound care, cancer treatment, inflammatory disorders and more.
It’s believed that CBD works by interacting with an animal’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for maintaining balance and homeostasis. This is similar to how humans work, although the two systems may differ slightly.
The endocannabinoid system works by releasing chemicals called cannabinoids, which bind to receptors throughout our bodies. These include CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found primarily in the brain. They serve a variety of functions including regulating appetite, sleep, mood, memory and more.
How Much To Give Your Dog?
When it comes to CBD dosage for dogs, there really isn’t a magic number. There are, however, several factors to consider when determining how much CBD you should give your dog.
First off, you should take into account the size of your pet. Most dogs weigh between 20 and 30 pounds, although larger breeds may reach up to 50 pounds. If you’re giving your dog CBD oil, you’ll likely want to start out with a lower daily dose and then slowly increase it over time. If you notice any side effects from your dog taking CBD, you should stop giving them the product immediately.
Also, make sure that you’re using a quality product. Since there are no regulations regarding CBD for dogs, you could be buying something made in China and it could potentially cause harm. When shopping around, make sure to look for brands with a good reputation and a return policy. Some companies offer free shipping, too.
You should also take into account your dog’s age. Older dogs tend to metabolize CBD faster than younger ones. As a result, you might want to try starting out with half the recommended dose and see how it goes. Then, you can gradually increase it over time.
How Long Will My Dog Be On CBD?
Again, it depends on your dog. With puppies, you can usually expect to see results within 10 days. With older dogs, you should expect it to take longer. Some owners report seeing results after six months, while others say it takes up to 12 weeks.
Keep in mind that the effects of CBD will vary based on your dog’s health condition. For example, dogs suffering from arthritis will require higher dosages than those who only suffer from muscle spasms.
Breeds And Effects Of CBD
There are dozens of breeds of dogs that respond differently to CBD. Some are more sensitive to it than others. Here’s a breakdown of the breeds I’ve seen use CBD successfully.
Chihuahuas:
Chihuahuas are often treated with CBD because they are prone to having anxiety and seizures. Many vets suggest giving them 5 mg twice a day. If you decide to go with a higher dose, make sure to monitor your dog closely.
Pugs:
Pugs are another breed that have been helped with CBD. Like Chihuahuas, they may struggle with anxiety and seizures. Many recommend dosing at 5 mg twice per day.
Labrador Retrievers:
Labradors are generally considered to be pretty mellow dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. One thing to remember is that Labs are typically quite overweight. So, you may need to start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Border Collies:
Border Collies are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported positive results with CBD. I would recommend starting with half the recommended dose and then increasing it based on your dog’s reaction.
Golden Retrievers:
Golden retrievers seem to be fairly calm dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. One thing to remember is that Golden Retrievers are prone to arthritis. So, you may need to start off with a lower dose than normal.
Bulldogs:
Bulldogs are known for being highly energetic dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. I would recommend starting off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increasing it.
Rottweilers:
Rottweilers are known for being super aggressive. Some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. One thing to keep in mind is that Rottweilers are prone to kidney problems, so be careful to monitor your dog closely.
German Shepherds:
German shepherds are known for being very sensitive dogs. Many owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start out with half the recommended dose and slowly increase it.
Dachshunds:
Dachshunds are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. One thing to remember is that Dachshunds are prone to arthritis. So, you may need to start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Beagles:
Beagles are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Shih Tzus:
Shih Tzus are known for being hyper active, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. I would recommend starting off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increasing it.
Pekingese:
Pekingese are known for being quiet. Some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Pomeranians:
Pomeranians are known for being extremely playful, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Irish Setters:
Irish setters are known for being friendly, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. One thing to keep in mind is that Irish setters are prone to diabetes. So, you may want to start out with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
French Bulldog:
French bulldogs are known for being extremely playful, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Boston Terriers:
Boston terriers are typically very happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Miniature Schnauzers:
Miniature schnauzers are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
English Cocker Spaniel:
English Cockers are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Yorkshire Terrier:
Yorkshire Terriers are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
American Staffordshire Terrier:
American Staffordshire Terriers are typically happy dogs, but some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
Mixed Breed:
Mixed breed dogs are known to be all kinds of crazy. Some owners have reported success with CBD for these dogs. Start off with half the recommended dose and then gradually increase it.
All in all, CBD can be an extraordinary method for further developing your canine’s personal satisfaction. Simply try to pick a trustworthy brand and get going with a lower day to day portion. Over the long run, you can raise it until your canine beginnings seeing a distinction.
