When it comes to CBD oil for dogs, like with any other pet wellness fad, there is a lot of information circulating around the internet, and it's tough to tell what's true and what's not. Of course, you want to do what's best for your dog, so what do I need to know about CBD oil for dogs?

Dr. Jerry Klein, the AKC's Chief Veterinary Officer, discusses what CBD oil is, what it does for dogs, and what safety issues and potential adverse effects it may have.

What Is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical component found in cannabis and hemp. It's important to note, according to Dr. Klein, that CBD oil does not usually include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychotropic ingredient in marijuana. In reality, the majority of CBD products are made from hemp rather than marijuana.

How Does CBD Affect Dogs?

There hasn't been scientific research on how CBD affects dogs yet. Cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral neurological systems, which assist maintain bodily equilibrium and keep it in a normal healthy condition, according to experts.

What Dog Health Problems Can CBD Oil Treat?

While there is no conclusive scientific proof that CBD may alleviate pain, especially neuropathic pain, or assist control seizures in dogs, there is anecdotal evidence from dog owners that it can.

CBD is also utilized for anti-inflammatory qualities, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, hunger stimulation, anti-anxiety effects, and perhaps anti-cancer advantages, according to Dr. Klein, but there is no convincing research on this application.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is funding research at Colorado State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences to see if CBD can help dogs with epilepsy who are resistant to other treatments. The CHF hopes that this will be the first study to gain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.

Possible Side Effects of CBD in Dogs

While there is no scientific evidence of CBD's negative effects on dogs, there are possible side effects based on how CBD affects people. Make sure you're getting the right dosage to avoid any unpleasant side effects.

• Dry mouth: CBD has been found in studies to reduce saliva production. This might appear in increased thirst in dogs.
• Lowered blood pressure: CBD at high dosages has been shown to produce a brief decrease in blood pressure. Even if the dip is modest, it may cause light-headedness for a limited time.
• Drowsiness: CBD has been used to alleviate anxiety in dogs. CBD's relaxing effect might induce sleepiness in some people, especially when consuming larger dosages.

Risks of Using CBD Oil for Dogs

The safety and hazards of CBD use in dogs have yet to be investigated. CBD has not been authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration, therefore there is no dosage schedule available. As a result, we have no idea what dosage might be harmful. Any medicine or supplement has the potential to cause a negative response. When feeding your dog something new, it's usually a good idea to start with tiny quantities and then constantly monitor the results. Also, please consult your veterinarian before taking any action.

CBD Products on the Market

If you and your veterinarian decide to explore CBD as a therapy for your dog, there are a few things to consider before buying CBD oil. Not all oils are created equal; for the best results, go for high-quality CBD oil.

• Look for organic. If the CBD oil isn't organic, it should at the very least be free of pesticides, fungicides, and solvents.
• Don’t only shop based on price. Higher prices are generally linked with higher quality and purity. Toxic chemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals may be present in a less expensive choice. Check to see if your CBD oil has any additions.
• Get the analysis. A certificate certifying the quantity of CBD in the product should be provided by the producer. Many CBD products only have trace levels of CBD in them. You'll also want to make sure the product has little or no THC.
• Buy CBD as a liquid. You can buy CBD dog treats, but the ideal way to give it to your dog is in the form of an oil or tincture. You may modify your dog's dosage drop by drop this way...

The CBD Wellness Trend

What's the big deal with CBD oil these days? The legalization of marijuana in many locations, according to Dr. Klein, has sparked interest in the possible health advantages of marijuana-related products. “In the next years, we are likely to see ongoing interest in CBD, as well as an increase in the study into its applications and efficacy,” he predicts.