CBD oil for dogs

What is CBD oil for dogs?

CBD, in full cannabidiol, is an active compound from the hemp plant. Unlike THC, CBD has no psychoactive action: it does not get your dog high. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a system of the body’s own that dogs, cats and horses have too and that is involved in a wide range of processes. The CBD oil we carry for dogs is made with salmon oil instead of a plant oil. That tastes a good deal more pleasant to most dogs, which makes giving it easier.

Why do dog owners give CBD?

Dog owners give CBD for a wide range of personal reasons, often around moments when their dog is unsettled, such as thunderstorms or fireworks. What CBD does for a dog we cannot say: research into CBD in animals is still in its infancy and there are no approved claims. If you see something about your dog that is not right, go to your vet. They know your dog, we do not.

How do you give CBD oil to your dog?

There are two practical ways. The first is putting drops of the oil straight into the mouth, preferably under the tongue for fast absorption. The second is dropping the oil onto the food or a snack, which is the easiest route for many dogs. How your dog responds differs per animal and per situation, and we cannot make any statements about that. Do not draw conclusions after a day: give it consistently for a few weeks and consult your vet if in doubt.

The right dose of CBD oil for dogs

The optimal dose differs per dog and depends on weight, age and the reason for using it. A widely used rule of thumb is to dose three times a day, with one drop of 2% CBD oil per 5 kilograms of body weight at each moment. With the 4% oil that becomes one drop per 10 kilograms. A dog of 30 kilograms therefore gets three drops per moment with the 4% oil. Always start carefully and build the dose up step by step as you see how your dog responds. Does your dog have less energy than normal, or do you notice no effect after a few weeks? Then adjust the dose, preferably in consultation with your vet.

Without THC: why we choose isolate

Dogs are more sensitive to THC than people. That is why we work with CBD isolate rather than full spectrum CBD for the dog oil. With isolate the CBD is fully separated from the other compounds in the hemp plant, which means the end product contains 0 per cent THC. For the Dutch Hemp oil we carry, this is externally tested and certified per batch. You will find the analysis report per product on the product page. You can read more about the brand on the Dutch Hemp brand page.

CBD oil as part of broader support

CBD oil can be a worthwhile addition, but is not a replacement for treatment by your vet. With dogs on medication, especially with liver or kidney problems, consultation is essential before you start. CBD can influence the breakdown of certain medicines. Many dog owners combine CBD with natural supplements for dogs from our range, from the Healthy Dog line for instance. In our blog when do dogs need supplements you can read how to build a targeted combination.

Frequently asked questions about CBD oil for dogs

Why do vets not recommend CBD?

A fair question, and the answer is not that there is something wrong with it. Vets are cautious because there is still little research into CBD in animals, because CBD can influence the breakdown of medicines, and because the quality of what is on the market varies a great deal. On top of that, your vet knows your dog and we do not. So we are not saying you should skip the vet. If your dog is on medication or has a diagnosis, consult them first.

How many CBD drops may my dog have?

A widely used rule of thumb is to dose three times a day, with one drop of 2% oil per 5 kilos of body weight at each moment. With the 4% oil that is one drop per 10 kilos. A dog of 30 kilos therefore gets three drops per moment with the 4% oil. Start carefully and build up step by step. If in doubt, consult your vet.

Is there THC in it? Is that not dangerous for my dog?

A fair concern, because dogs are more sensitive to THC than people. That is why we work with CBD isolate rather than full spectrum for the dog oil: the end product contains 0% THC. This is externally tested and certified per batch, and the analysis report is with the product. So never simply give your dog CBD oil meant for people, because that often does contain a fraction of THC.

Will my dog get high from CBD?

No. CBD is not psychoactive, and our dog oil contains no THC either.

What are the side effects?

What is seen in dogs includes drowsiness, a dry mouth or a changed appetite, and sometimes stomach or bowel complaints. If you notice your dog has less energy than normal, lower the dose. If in doubt, your vet is the person to ask.

When is it better not to give it?

Do not use it with pregnant or nursing dogs. If your dog is on medication, or has liver or kidney problems, consult your vet first: CBD can influence the breakdown of certain medicines.

Any questions about the choice?

Unsure between the 2% and the 4%, or about the dose for your dog? Ask your question through customer service. Also have a look at supplements for dogs, CBD for cats, or read when dogs need supplements.