Caring for our dogs is something every pet owner takes seriously. These lovable, four-legged companions fill our lives with happiness, wagging tails, and of course, plenty of shed fur. With everything they bring to our lives, it’s only natural that we would want to give them the best life possible in return.
For many dog owners, adding CBD to their pet’s daily routine has become a popular choice. Pet parents across the country have reported seeing improvements in different areas of their dogs’ well-being after introducing CBD. However, it’s fair to ask whether CBD lives up to all the attention it’s getting.
Evidence Suggests CBD May Reduce Car Ride Anxiety in Dogs
While most people enjoy a car ride with their favorite music playing and a drink in the cup holder, the same can’t always be said for our furry companions. It’s common for some dogs to feel anxious or stressed when riding in a car, even if the destination is somewhere they love, like the park.
Research published in early 2024 by the Journal of Animal Science explored how CBD may affect this type of stress. The study observed 20 dogs over a six-month period, providing each dog with a daily CBD dose based on their body weight. The CBD was given orally to ensure the most effective absorption.
The researchers noted that the car rides successfully caused noticeable stress in the dogs. However, they also reported that several measures of stress were improved with CBD use. According to the study’s findings, giving dogs a daily dose of 4 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight appeared to offer a mild calming effect during car rides.
Randomized Study Finds Evidence of Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for Dogs with OA
It is never easy to see our beloved pets face the challenges that come with aging. One of the hardest things to witness is their struggle with painful conditions such as osteoarthritis. Certain breeds, including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Boxers, tend to be more vulnerable to developing arthritis compared to others.
Research released in 2020 presented findings that suggest CBD may offer relief through its anti-inflammatory properties. During a four-week trial involving animals diagnosed with osteoarthritis, the study noted that CBD led to a significant reduction in pain and improved mobility. These benefits were observed to increase with higher doses, showing a positive relationship between dosage and effectiveness.
The Bottom Line
CBD’s properties have been shown in the studies above to have potential benefits for our four-legged friends. However, pet owners should do their due diligence when it comes to selecting a CBD product for their pet. Not all products are made with the same quality and care, so knowing what to look for is essential.
When it comes to buying dog-friendly CBD, pet parents should be sure they are buying a quality product from a reputable brand. A few items to look for include;
- Ingredient lists with dog-friendly ingredients.
- Contact information for the brand in case of questions or concerns
- A certificate of Analysis (also known as a COA) to ensure quality and legality
A reputable brand will make sure it fulfills all of these requirements, as well as providing educational information and other aspects that promote brand transparency. They offer tools that help pet parents do their homework to find the perfect product for their furry friend’s needs, whether that is a topical, an edible, or a tincture.
At the end of the day, current research is showing positive trends when it comes to CBD for dogs. Studies like the ones discussed above may be preliminary, but they offer valuable insight that can help pet owners make informed decisions about CBD products. After all, we all want the best for our four-legged fur babies. Could CBD be the right fit for your dog?