Dogs bring us joy in countless ways. Their wagging tails, excited greetings, and loyal companionship turn any house into a home. Because of all they give us, it’s only natural to want to give them the very best in return and help them enjoy the happiest, healthiest life possible.
Many pet owners have discovered that adding CBD to their dog’s daily routine has made a noticeable difference. Reports from pet parents suggest benefits in different areas of their dog’s well-being. But with all the buzz surrounding CBD, some may wonder if it really lives up to the attention it’s getting.
Research Suggests CBD May Help Ease Travel Anxiety
While many people enjoy the comfort of a car ride with their favorite music playing and a drink in hand, the same experience might not be as relaxing for your furry friend. Car rides can be a common source of stress for dogs, even when the destination is somewhere they love like the local park.
In a study published in early 2024 by the Journal of Animal Science, researchers explored the effects of CBD on car ride-related stress in dogs. Over the course of six months, twenty dogs received daily servings of CBD based on their body weight. The CBD was given orally to ensure proper absorption.
The study results showed that car rides did in fact trigger signs of stress in the dogs. However, the data also indicated that daily CBD use had a positive effect on reducing some of these stress responses. Specifically, the findings noted that daily dosing at 4 mg per kilogram of body weight appeared to have a mild calming effect, suggesting that CBD may help ease anxiety during car travel.
Randomized Study Finds Evidence of Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for Dogs with OA
Seeing our beloved pets struggle with the challenges of aging can be heartbreaking. One of the most difficult things to witness is the discomfort they experience from conditions like osteoarthritis. Certain breeds, including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Boxers, tend to be more vulnerable to developing arthritis as they grow older.
Research published in 2020 provided promising evidence that the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may help relieve the discomfort associated with canine osteoarthritis. During a four-week animal study, researchers noted that CBD noticeably reduced pain and improved mobility in a dose-dependent manner for animals that had been positively diagnosed with osteoarthritis.
The Bottom Line
CBD has shown promising potential for supporting the well-being of our furry companions, as outlined in the research mentioned above. Still, it’s important for pet owners to take the time to carefully evaluate any CBD product before giving it to their pet. Not all products are created equally, so understanding what sets a quality product apart is a crucial step.
Pet parents should always make sure they are purchasing from a trusted brand that prioritizes safety and quality. It’s important to check that the product contains ingredients that are safe for dogs, that the company provides accessible customer support for any questions, and that a Certificate of Analysis is available to verify quality and legal compliance. Brands that take pet wellness seriously will meet these standards and go further by offering educational resources and promoting transparency. They aim to empower pet owners to make confident choices, whether they are looking for a topical, an edible, or a tincture that suits their dog’s needs.
While more research is certainly needed, the early findings on CBD for dogs are encouraging. These studies provide valuable information that can help pet parents navigate the growing CBD market with more confidence. In the end, every pet owner wants to give their dog the very best. Could CBD be the right addition to your dog’s wellness routine?