How Much CBD Can a Dog Have?
Despite the fact that there are some topical therapies, CBD oil is generally delivered orally to dogs, and the right amount is critical to its effectiveness. It’s important to remember that the key to success with any medicine is the dosage.
A dosage of 2 to 8 milligrams per kilogram of body weight twice day has been used in studies on CBD for dogs with arthritis or seizures, with most publications erring on the lower side of that range.
According to research, this dose has been proven to be safe and moderately helpful for the specific disorders researched (arthritis and seizures). We still need to perform more studies to determine what doses of CBD are needed to treat different diseases. Many CBD products contain very little, if any, CBD, which makes it difficult to appropriately dose dogs.
Cannabidiol product Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved drug for epilepsy in dogs and a veterinarian could potentially prescribe it, but it would likely be prohibitively expensive. Due to the fact that this product has FDA approval, the CBD content will be correct, unlike many other CBD products on the market today.
What’s the Best Form of CBD?
CBD for dogs started out as simple oils but with the market expanding, there are many different types of CBD products available. Some of these include CBD treats, CBD-infused broth, and so much more. But which is the best and most effective?
CBD oils in bottles with droppers are the easiest way to give the proper dosage and it can be put on treats, food or straight into the dog’s mouth. The strength and terpene content of oils will vary. Broad-spectrum CBD oil may be your best choice because it includes the most natural plant components that can increase efficacy. Consider using Coconut Oil with CBD if your dog is picky about what they eat since some CBD oil products have a “grassy” flavor. Because it is so delectable, most dogs will eat it on its own or mixed into their food and treats. As an alternative, the drug can be administered directly to the dog’s ears, where it is absorbed transdermally.
CBD in other forms is still effective! Don’t fret over that. Brands like Dope Dog and Innovet have created effective CBD treats that are easy to give to your dog. Dosage may vary so be sure to check the packaging for the correct dosage.
Recap
CBD can be a helpful, natural way to help pets overcome numerous ailments and illnesses such as anxiety, joint pain, and cancer symptoms. It is not FDA regulated yet so it’s up to the consumer to do research before purchasing a product as they are not all made equal. There also hasn’t been enough research done yet to be able to make fortified claims on the effectiveness of CBD nor can veterinarians prescribe it nor suggest it.
The dosage of CBD varies per product and per dog, usually based on their size in pounds. If you aren’t sure of the dosage, the company may be able to help figure it out. CBD also comes in varied forms such as oils and treats. It may take some experimenting to figure out which is best for your dog and lifestyle, although CBD oils are usually easier for dosage. While a vet cannot suggest it, it is suggested that you ask them if it would be safe for your dog. Always consult your veterinarian before starting a treatment, holistic or not. You can discover CBD products in our product directory and find which one is best for you!