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    Home / Articles / Hemp and animals / The Benefits of CBD for Dogs: A Personal Experience

    The Benefits of CBD for Dogs: A Personal Experience

    Article author: Lucy Garabas

    Are you wondering how CBD oil could help your dog? Then keep reading. CBD oil offers a wide range of potential benefits, including helping to reduce the symptoms of epilepsy, promoting calmness, supporting the immune system, helping to relieve pain and providing anti-inflammatory properties. Best of all, these benefits are offered by a natural product with relatively few reported side effects.

    In this article, you will learn:

    Article summary:

    • CBD oil for dogs may help with epilepsy, anxiety, pain, osteoarthritis and cancer-related difficulties. It is a natural product with relatively few reported side effects.
    • The effects of CBD are associated with its interaction with the canine endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain, inflammation, immunity, mental well-being and neurological functions.
    • Dosage is individual. In cases involving serious health conditions or the use of other medication, CBD administration should be discussed with a veterinarian.

    How does CBD affect dogs?

    Every mammal has an endocannabinoid system with which CBD interacts. Although the endocannabinoid system of animals differs slightly from that of humans, the basic principle is largely the same. The endocannabinoid system influences many of the body’s physiological processes, including neuronal activity, pain perception, anxiety, inflammation, immune function, metabolic regulation and bone growth. When the endocannabinoid system becomes unbalanced, various problems may occur, such as pain, inflammation or anxiety. In such cases, CBD may help support the body’s natural balance. According to available research and experience, CBD in dogs is primarily used to support dogs experiencing:

    Canine epilepsy and CBD

    Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain how CBD drops for dogs may affect epilepsy:

    • CBD may influence levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, as low levels of this neurotransmitter have been associated with seizures.
    • CBD may affect synaptic transmission, meaning the transfer of information between cells. More specifically, it may alter the way neurons communicate in the brain and how they absorb other substances. It has therefore been suggested that CBD may influence the effectiveness of certain medicines used to treat epilepsy. Any adjustment to conventional medication must always be carried out by a veterinarian.
    • CBD has been studied for its neuroprotective properties, meaning that it may help protect brain cells against damage.
    • CBD is also studied for potential anticonvulsant properties associated with its interaction with receptors involved in the central nervous system, learning and memory.
    • CBD may help stabilise the function of ion channels in the body. The correct function of these channels is essential for healthy cells and tissues.

    Hugo’s story also describes an experience with canine epilepsy and the use of CBD.

    Research into canine epilepsy and CBD has advanced considerably in recent years. A completed clinical study led by Dr Stephanie McGrath of Colorado State University, which had only just begun when the original version of this article was written, produced encouraging results: 89% of the dogs receiving CBD experienced a reduction in seizure frequency. The research was funded by the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation and published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine. A summary of the study is available HERE.

    A more recent pilot study from 2023 involving dogs with refractory epilepsy, meaning epilepsy that does not respond adequately to standard medication, found that 61.5% of the dogs achieved a reduction in seizure frequency of at least 50%. The researchers gradually increased the CBD dose from 0.5 mg/kg to 2.5 mg/kg twice daily. A double-blind crossover study from 2023 involving 51 dogs also indicated that CBD used alongside standard antiepileptic treatment reduced seizure frequency more effectively than placebo alone.

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    CBD for calming dogs

    CBD may help promote calmness in frightened or stressed dogs. Our advisory service recently worked with a dog owner whose female dog had been intended for shows but had been extremely fearful from an early age. Attending shows was therefore very difficult for her. After introducing CBD drops for dogs, the owner noticed a significant improvement in the dog’s behaviour and ability to cope with the show environment. We have received similar feedback from dog owners using CBD during fireworks, thunderstorms and other stressful situations.

    Overall, owners frequently report that after regular use, their animals appear to be more relaxed and emotionally balanced.

    CBD as supportive care for dogs with cancer

    CBD itself is not a treatment for cancer in dogs. However, it may offer several supportive benefits that can make it a useful addition to the daily care of a dog undergoing cancer treatment. Owners often report that their dogs appear to be in better emotional condition when using CBD. CBD may also help support appetite in dogs experiencing a reduced desire to eat as a consequence of their condition or treatment.

    CBD for separation anxiety and mental well-being in dogs

    CBD may also provide valuable support for dogs experiencing separation anxiety, nervousness or stress. When your dog finds it difficult to stay at home alone or frequently appears anxious and unsettled, CBD may offer a natural way to support calm behaviour and emotional well-being.

    CBD for pain and osteoarthritis

    Osteoarthritis is a common condition, particularly among older dogs, and is frequently accompanied by pain. CBD is studied for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help make the symptoms of osteoarthritis easier to manage.

    In 2023, the first systematic meta-analysis specifically examining CBD and canine osteoarthritis was published. It included five studies involving 117 dogs and concluded that CBD administration was associated with a statistically significant reduction in pain scores. A more recent randomised double-blind study also reported significant improvements in pain and mobility among dogs receiving either 50 mg of CBD per day or 20 mg in a water-soluble form, with improvements observed after four weeks of administration.

    Read reviews and experiences with CBD for dogs.

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    Studies on the effects of CBD in dogs

    Although shops offering cannabidiol products for pets are a relatively recent phenomenon, research into the effects of CBD is not new. For a long time, the main challenge was the lack of clinical studies. However, this situation has changed considerably in recent years, and the number of high-quality studies is increasing.

    A 1988 study by Mechoulam, Bialer and Samara, published in the journal Drug Metabolism and Disposition, investigated the pharmacokinetics of CBD in dogs. One group of dogs received an oral CBD dose of 180 mg, while two separate doses of 45 mg provided a total of 90 mg. Following intravenous administration, the cannabinoid was rapidly distributed and then eliminated over an extended period. After oral administration, CBD could not be detected in the plasma of three of the six dogs studied. In the remaining three dogs, maximum bioavailability was only 19%. The researchers concluded that CBD was poorly absorbed following oral administration and that the low absorption rate was probably caused by the first-pass effect. The study is available HERE.

    In July 2018, Frontiers in Veterinary Science published a clinical study by Gamble et al. examining the effects of CBD in dogs with osteoarthritis. The dogs received either 2 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight or a placebo oil every 12 hours for four weeks. A significant reduction in pain and an increase in activity were observed in 80% of the dogs receiving CBD, while no adverse effects were reported during the study.

    More recent clinical studies conducted between 2019 and 2023

    Dr Stephanie McGrath of Colorado State University completed a clinical study involving dogs with epilepsy, in which 60 dogs were enrolled between 2017 and 2021. The results, published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, indicated that 89% of the dogs receiving CBD experienced a reduction in seizure frequency. The research was funded by the American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation, which invested USD 350,000 in the study.

    In 2023, the first systematic meta-analysis examining the effects of CBD on canine osteoarthritis was published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science. It reviewed five studies involving 117 dogs and confirmed a statistically significant reduction in pain. The same year also saw the publication of a double-blind crossover study involving 51 dogs with refractory epilepsy, which supported the potential benefit of CBD as a complementary treatment alongside standard antiepileptic medication.

    How should CBD be given to dogs for the best possible effect?

    We recommend using CBD oils for dogs supplied with a dropper. The dropper makes it easier to administer the oil directly into the dog’s mouth or apply it to the gums. Some owners alternatively use CBD treats or CBD tablets with joint-support ingredients, as these products may be easier to administer to certain dogs. We also recommend leaving approximately 30 minutes between food and the administration of CBD or other supplements. When a dog takes prescription medication, consult a veterinarian about the appropriate timing.

    Side effects of CBD in dogs

    The safety profile and potential risks of administering CBD to dogs have not yet been explored as thoroughly as those of conventional veterinary medicines. However, the growing number of studies is gradually providing more information. Possible side effects may include:

    • Dry mouth
    • A reduction in blood pressure, potentially causing dizziness or weakness
    • Drowsiness, particularly at higher doses
    • Temporary increases in liver enzymes – newer studies suggest that higher doses of CBD may temporarily influence liver enzyme levels in dogs, particularly ALP and ALT. When using Cannadorra products according to the recommended dosage, which does not exceed 4 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight per day, the risk is considered low. During long-term use or when CBD is combined with other medication, regular monitoring of liver values during veterinary check-ups may be appropriate.
    • Interactions with medication – CBD may influence the way certain medicines are metabolised by the liver. When your dog takes antiepileptic medication, pain relief or any other long-term medicine, always consult a veterinarian before introducing CBD. A time interval of approximately two hours between CBD and conventional medication is often recommended, although the appropriate interval should be confirmed by a veterinarian.

    A veterinarian’s experience with CBD and hemp in clinical practice

    Would you like to know what experience veterinarians have with the use of CBD in animals? We spoke to veterinarian Daniela Králová, who has been actively working with CBD in her veterinary practice for several years and shared a range of observations from her clinical experience.

    Dr Daniela Králová has worked in veterinary practice for 16 years. She has actively used CBD for dogs in her work for the past two to three years and has had positive experiences with it. She has been familiar with the potential effects of CBD on dogs for many years and appreciates being able to offer this natural product as a complementary option to her clients.

    What is the veterinarian’s opinion of our CBD and hemp products?

    She is satisfied with hemp and CBD products from Cannadorra because they are produced with a strong focus on quality control, certification and laboratory analysis. This gives her confidence that she is recommending carefully manufactured products to her animal patients.

    She appreciates the natural origin of hemp and its potential to complement conventional treatment. In conditions such as epilepsy, some conventional medicines may require dose adjustments over time. Under veterinary supervision, CBD may sometimes be used as complementary support alongside standard medication.

    Dr Králová also highlights that the dosage of CBD oils is highly individual and should be gradually adjusted to the needs and response of each animal. Careful observation, patience and a long-term approach are therefore important.

    Her own nature-focused project, introduced towards the end of the original interview, was created to encourage the protection and preservation of the natural world. It is based on a true story and combines written content with additional multimedia materials documenting her observations of wild fox cubs.

    Discussion about the effects of CBD in dogs:

    Question: Hello. I have a 2.5 kg female Chihuahua that experiences seizures. It is probably epilepsy. What concentration of CBD drops would you recommend? Thank you.

    Answer: Hello. I would recommend consulting your veterinarian first, particularly because seizures require a professional diagnosis. A 5% CBD oil for dogs may be considered, but the exact number of drops should be determined according to the product specification, the dog’s response and the veterinarian’s recommendations.

    Discussion: We have been buying CBD oil for our dog for more than a year, and his arthritis symptoms have become less severe.

    Response: Hello, thank you very much for your comment. We are pleased that CBD has been helping your dog. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain perception, inflammation, immune function and nervous system regulation.

    Discussion: HELLO, I USE CBD FOR MY SHEPHERD COOKIE AND CAN HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. HE HAS ARTHRITIS AND PROBLEMS WITH HIS SPINAL DISCS. SURGERY IS NOT SUITABLE FOR HIM, SO WE USE CBD DROPS AND ATTEND REHABILITATION. I WOULD RECOMMEND IT TO OTHERS. BEST WISHES FROM JANE AND MY FAITHFUL COMPANION COOKIE.

    Response: Hello JANE, thank you very much for sharing your experience!

    Would you like to contribute to the discussion? Send your question to info@cannadorra.com.