CBD Oil for Dogs UK

What you need to know

As CBD use continues to grow in popularity, more and more pet owners are starting to give it to their pets too. The Pet CBD industry sales for 2022 were estimated to be over $700m (£560m). This is expected to reach over $1.1 billion (£800m) by 2025.

A recent study also found that 73% of people who gave their pet CBD, use CBD themselves.

With so much information available, consumers (and pet owners) are now becoming better educated on brands and product selection, not only for themselves but also for their pets.

One of the most important things regarding giving your Dog (or any animal) CBD, is that you must have permission from your veterinarian first (more about this below)!

Is CBD Oil safe to give a Dog?

CBD is safe to give a Dog but not all CBD. Dogs are very sensitive to THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound found in Marijuana). This is why vets only ever recommend giving a Dog Pure Isolate-based products. These products are free from THC and all other Cannabinoids (making this the safest CBD option).

As the UK VMD (Veterinary Medicines Directorate) currently has not approved ANY CBD products for animals, veterinarians will often prescribe “human” off-the-shelf CBD oil for your Dog. Because of this, many CBD companies are now offering CBD oils blended with things like Salmon Oil, to make them more attractive for a pet. This is acceptable but cannot be labeled “for pets”. This Salmon Oil must also be a “Human Grade” food product as some people often buy this for themselves and not their pets.

How much CBD Oil should you give your Dog?

The appropriate dosage of CBD for dogs depends on factors such as their size, weight, and individual needs.

Because until recently, there was very little data regarding CBD for Dogs (and especially dosage amounts), vets will always recommend starting very small and increasing the amount slowly. The UK recommended maximum Daily Allowance for humans (according to the Food Standards Agency), is currently 70mg/day. This used to be a lot higher until a few years ago and was lowered as new regulations were brought in. It may well increase in the future as more safety testing data comes available.

Consulting with a vet can provide guidance on the optimal dosage for your dog.

DOG CBD OIL DOSAGE CHART

Below is a typical Dog CBD Oil Dosage Chart that many companies now agree with.

  A 10ml bottle of 1000mg CBD Oil contains approximately 5mg/drop. Remember, start low and increase slowly.

*One thing that is vital (especially in the UK), is that before you give any animal CBD, you must get authorization from your vet. Only a VMD Certified veterinarian can prescribe CBD for animals.

How should I give CBD Oil to my Dog?

CBD is best added to the animal’s food.

How does CBD Oil affect your Dog?

Just like humans, Animals have what is known as an "Endocannabinoid System". This is a biological system that functions to maintain homeostasis (a state of balance in the body). The ECS has three main components including endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are produced by the body. The body produces these molecules as they are needed. There are two main types of receptors in the ECS known as the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are found in the brain and central nervous system. CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral organs and immune cells. The ECS exists in your pet’s body even without the use of cannabis products.

Anxiety and Stress Relief:

CBD may help calm anxious dogs and reduce stress-related behaviours. It can promote a sense of relaxation by interacting with receptors in the ECS responsible for regulating mood and emotions.

Pain Management:

CBD's anti-inflammatory properties may assist in managing pain and discomfort in dogs. It can potentially alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis, joint issues, or post-surgery recovery.

Seizure Control:

Some studies suggest that CBD can help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures in dogs with epilepsy or other neurological disorders. It may have anticonvulsant properties that aid in regulating abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

Improved Appetite and Digestion:

CBD has been observed to stimulate appetite in dogs experiencing appetite loss due to illness or medication. It may also help with digestive issues by regulating gastrointestinal motility.

Enhanced Skin Health:

Topical application of CBD-infused products can benefit dogs with skin allergies, itchiness, or dryness. CBD's anti-inflammatory and soothing properties can promote healthier skin and relieve discomfort.

Promoting Overall Well-being:

CBD's potential to regulate the ECS can contribute to the overall well-being of dogs. It may support immune function, promote a balanced mood, and assist in maintaining homeostasis in their bodies.

Are there any dangers in giving a Dog CBD Oil?

Adverse Effects:

While CBD is generally well-tolerated by dogs, some may experience mild side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or temporary changes in appetite. If any unusual or severe reactions occur, discontinue use and consult a veterinarian.

Drug Interactions:

CBD may interact with certain medications, such as those metabolized by the liver. It's essential to inform your veterinarian about any medications your dog is taking to avoid potential interactions.

Individual Sensitivity:

Dogs may react differently to CBD due to variations in their physiology. Some dogs may be more sensitive, so close observation and adjusting the dosage as necessary are important.

**As we keep stating, always consult with a vet before introducing CBD products to your dog's routine, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. Your vet can provide personalized advice based on your dog's specific needs and help ensure their safety and well-being.

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Final Note:

If you are considering using CBD for your dog, it's best to consult with a vet who is knowledgeable about cannabis and its potential applications in veterinary medicine. They can evaluate your dog's health, review any existing medications or treatments, and provide individualized recommendations based on their professional expertise.

It's important to work closely with your veterinarian throughout the process to ensure the safe and effective use of CBD for your dog's specific needs.

For more information on CBD for Dogs and Salmon Oil products etc, visit our CBD for Pets information page, or alternatively, visit our CBD UK homepage and checkout our hundreds of fantastic products. All at great prices and all the finest quality available online.