Introduction
CBD has been seen to be very useful for treating various symptoms in dogs. Before purchasing one for them, it is best to be informed of how it is properly dosed to ensure that your dog will not have any side effects. Even if it is fully natural and safe for them, side effects are to be expected with improper use.
What is CBD?
CBD is short for cannabidiol. CBd was discovered in 1940, it has only been recently approved for widespread commercial use because of progress in legalization. It can be extracted from cannabis plants, usually from the hemp plant.
It interacts with the endocannabinoid system that is usually found in mammals, and which influences their mood, immune system, appetite, sleep cycle, pain sensitivity and more. Through this, CBD can be treat chronic pain, seizures, anxiety, and more.
What are the side effects of CBD?
As mentioned, CBD is safe and has no side effects when given properly. If you accidentally give them a higher dose than their bodies can handle, its side effects include:
Thirstiness
Drowsiness
Confusion
Lethargy
Stomach irritation
Vomiting
To avoid this, you must understand how CBD should be given to them properly. While these side effects are not lethal, they are still uncomfortable for the dog.
Which factors determine the dosage of CBD?
CBD works differently because of various factors which you must remember before purchasing one. It includes the following:
1. Size of the dog – While they are all dogs, different breeds result in different body sizes. Breeds like chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers are notable for being very small, able to fit in some purses. At the same time, there are also the Golden Retrievers and English Mastiff which are very large and can reach human height when measured vertically.
When controlling the dose of CBD, read the label of the product to see the size it is made for. This is usually explicitly written in its packaging. Keep in mind that this is different for every pet company as their formulation is unique from each other, with some being more potent than others. Because of this, it is best to look for one that you will stick to for a long time.
2. The condition you are trying to treat – CBD can be used for a variety of reasons such as for simply boosting their health, relieving the symptoms of separation anxiety, lessening the chronic pain caused by arthritis, and reducing the occurrence of epilepsy. The worse the symptoms are, the higher the dose needed. This is the most important factor to consider. We found this out when we started using CBD to treat our dog seizures. It is a learning curve for sure, but the truth is we are very happy we did it.
To be sure, it is best to introduce CBD very slowly for them. For the first week, give them the smallest amount to allow their bodies to be familiar with it first. Continue to raise it after until you notice their symptoms lessening. Through this, their bodies will not be shocked.
3. Energy of the dog – How active a dog is can represent their metabolism. More activity means that they need to metabolize faster. Because of this, dogs who have high levels of energy may be advised to be given more CBD.
4. Form of CBD – Some forms of CBD are easier to give compared to others. The most popular one is CBD oil as it comes with a dropper. Through this, you can measure how many mgs and drops you will give them. It can be given by dropping it directly on their mouth or by mixing it with their food.
Next, it can also be given through dog treats. Usually, it is mixed with about 2-3 mg of the CBD oil for each treat. The dosage for this is measured by counting how many you will give them in a day which will range from 1-4 treats.
Because of this, you should always prioritize companies which write thorough instructions in the product’s packaging. Through this, you will be fully informed about how it can be given to your dogs. It is also best to see all the ingredients included in it such as the type of oil, the addition of hemp terpenes, and others.
With all of these factors to remember, it is best to consult with a veterinarian to be sure that you will give CBD appropriately. They can also tell you if it may potentially have interactions with any medication that they are currently taking.
Does the form of the CBD matter when figuring out how much to give?
The short answer is yes and no. Although that doesn’t actually answer the question it brings up another question. Which is how can it be yes and no ? The long answer, really isn’t that long though so don’t worry. The yes is that it matters because the rate at which it is absorbed is different. If you are giving CBD oil only, then it will be taken into the body and out of the body quicker. However, if you are using treats, then it will take longer to absorb and leave as well. If you are putting the oil on food then it would be similar to the rate that the treats get absorbed in.
When in doubt, we always say go slow and low. This is because you don’t want your furry buddy to get sick.
Recommended CBD dose for their weight
The most common advice for giving CBD to dogs is to follow the ratio of 0.2 mg for every pound of their weight. This is usually the safe option given that pet companies create mild formulations of CBD for dogs. Still, you should consider the symptom you are trying to treat.
Over time, your dog’s body can adapt to a specific dose which you can observe once they start becoming energetic and calm. If you are really concerned you can always read our article regarding dogs and if they can overdose on hemp oil.
Conclusion
The dose for CBD will depend upon the size of the dog, the form of the CBD, their energy levels, and the condition that you are trying to treat. Because formulations are unique for every company, it is best to read the instructions they provide in the label. One of the general rules for giving CBD oils is following the ratio of 0.2 mg for every pound.