How Can CBD Help A Dog With Body Aches

Cannabidiol (CBD) has exploded in popularity in the last couple of years among dog owners looking to relieve pain and anxiety for their beloved pets. If you have a mobility-impaired or older dog suffering from arthritis or hip dysplasia, or if your canine companion suffers from anxiety, you may have heard of CBD too.

Any pet owner might think, "Is CBD just another passing trend, or is there any science to back it up?" Of course, you want to do everything possible to keep your pet safe. Naturally, you also don't want to waste your money or jeopardize your lovely companion's health, which is why picking out the right product is essential.

This article will provide a general overview of CBD oil for dogs, including what it is, how it works, and its potential benefits for pets with joint discomfort, arthritis, chronic inflammation, and other mobility concerns.

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What is CBD Oil?

CBD is a cannabinoid molecule found naturally in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in the plant, and it does not contain THC. Nowadays, CBD is a widely used natural remedy for various physical and mental ailments. The oil is made by extracting CBD from the cannabis plant and mixing it with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed or coconut oil. 

It can then be applied topically or consumed sublingually. CBD products like CBD oil are used to address a variety of ailments, including anxiety, chronic muscle and joint ache, inflammation, and even seizures.

Can CBD Make Your Dog High?

Absolutely not. CBD cannot make your dog high. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid molecule, meaning it does not affect the brain in the same way as THC. THC is the psychoactive molecule found in marijuana, and it is responsible for the "high" feeling. CBD, on the other hand, stimulates the body in different ways, working on the endocannabinoid system.

Chronic Muscle and Joint Ache In Dogs

Experts describe muscle and joint ache as lasting longer than six months, even though the cause (disease or injury) is no longer present. Injury, surgery, and chronic and progressive conditions, including IVDD, hip dysplasia, and arthritis, can cause discomfort.

Other reasons for  discomfort in dogs can include cancer, neurologic disease, infection, immune-mediated disease, and trauma.

Furthermore, your dog's ache levels can range from mild to severe with short-term and long-term effects. For example, if a dog has been in a traumatic accident and had a broken bone, the bone may heal, but the dog may still experience discomfort due to the severity of the injury.

CBD Oil For Chronic Pain Management

We all know how important it is to reduce inflammation for dogs with special needs. Pets with mobility challenges, inflammation, or age-related illnesses, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, may benefit from CBD. In fact, high-quality CBD oil could be a supplementary part of a vet-approved program for dogs.

Vets and many non-specialist dog owners commonly use prescription medicines such as opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage discomfort. 

These drugs are pretty effective but have serious side effects even for humans. Chemical dependence, long-term liver damage, and fatal overdose risk are all possible side effects. The natural substance cannabidiol, on the other hand, has been shown in several studies to relieve discomfort with few side effects.

Can CBD Oil Cure Arthritis In Dogs?

The first thing you need to know is that arthritis is incurable.

And while some promising studies have shown CBD oil to be beneficial in treating inflammation and aches associated with arthritis in dogs, it cannot cure arthritis or any other ailments in mammals. However, veterinarians and scientists continue to research the potential of CBD oil as an effective long-term treatment for canine arthritis.

Science Behind CBD Ache Control Properties

CBD may be a viable alternative for dogs, cats, and people who suffer from discomfort and rely on opioids. But what is the science behind CBD's ache-controlling properties?

Researchers believe CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the brain and immune system, which help cells communicate (ECS). The ECS is responsible for regulating a variety of bodily processes in mammals, including ache perception and mood. CBD interacts with two types of receptors in the ECS system: CB1 and CB2 receptors. 

CB1 receptors, located mainly in the brain, regulate mood, appetite, and other functions. CB2 receptors, located mainly in the immune system, control inflammation and other immune system responses.

In fact, CBD oil allows two-way communication between endocannabinoid receptors, enabling the body to adjust its immunological response as needed. CBD oil is a safe and natural way for the body to regulate itself and keep it perfectly balanced.

Studies On Cannabidiol

Research on CBD products and ache management has indeed proved promising. And as cannabis becomes legal, a more in-depth and long-term study involving human volunteers will likely occur.

In one study, academics examined the effects of cannabis medications on aches in early 2021 by safely creating experimental thermal ache and analyzing how the neurological system reacts and responds to it. By applying pure CBD isolate oil, researchers discovered that while CBD didn't lower ache severity, it did make it less annoying.

Moreover, according to another research published in July 2018 by Cornell University, CBD boosted the comfort and activity of dogs suffering from arthritis. This clinical trial revealed that administering dogs with osteoarthritis 2 mg of CBD twice per day can make them feel more comfortable and active.

Effects Of CBD On Dogs

If your dog suffers from joint ache, your veterinarian may prescribe NSAIDs or other ache relievers like Gabapentin and Meloxicam. However, NSAIDs can induce joint and soft tissue degeneration on their own and harm your dog's liver in the future. Meds like Gabapentin can potentially damage kidneys. 

Furthermore, most of these drugs prove ineffective in the long run. But CBD is a natural and anti-inflammatory substance with none of the pharmaceutical side effects. Find out how CBD oils and other CBD ache meds can benefit your dog:

Controlling Arthritis Ache

Arthritis ache can be excruciating for many older dogs. CBD oil is a newer medication that has shown some promise for dogs suffering from arthritic symptoms. Animal medicine follows human medical trends, with testing and approval of veterinary medications typically taking years. 

The FDA hasn't approved a veterinary medicine based on CBD or hemp-derived chemicals to manage arthritis. However, that isn't to suggest there isn't evidence that CBD is impactful for dogs with arthritis. 

Several promising studies demonstrate that cannabidiol reduces inflammation and slows the progression of degeneration in mammals.

Managing Anxiety

Stress is among the most common reasons dog owners seek CBD for dogs. Anxiety can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including:

• Fear of noise
• Separation anxiety
• Violence

Of course, the human version of anti-anxiety medications is accessible for dogs as well. However, researchers are hailing CBD as a natural anxiety-management drug with no harmful side effects.

As a matter of fact, CBD oil could serve as an effective discomfort reliever, anxiety suppressant, and antidepressant. CBD even helps children with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or those who can't control their anxiety and insomnia. Fortunately for dog owners, animal studies show that these effects extend to animals as well.

Improving Mobility

As our dogs become older, they lose interest in the activities they used to like. A dog experiencing discomfort may find daily walks and swimming in the pool too much to handle. It's sad to see the process unfold because we all want to keep our pets mobile for as long as possible.

CBD oil may aid your older dog's movement by addressing aches and inflammation. In one study involving dogs, 2mg of CBD administered twice a day significantly improved movement in dogs with osteoarthritis.

Managing Hip Dysplasia Symptoms  

Another typical joint problem starting in puppyhood is hip dysplasia. Similar to arthritis, hip dysplasia is characterized by joint ache and inflammation.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition where the hip joints grow unevenly. Hip arthritis commonly develops at an early age as a result. Hip dysplasia causes joint ache, loss of movement, and chronic inflammation in dogs, just like arthritis. Hip dysplasia also causes the following symptoms:

• Reluctance to get up from a sleeping or sitting position
• Difficulty jumping or climbing stairs
• Leg ache in the back legs
• Hips with a restricted range of motion
• Muscle mass loss in the lower limbs

Veterinary doctors and pet owners are turning to CBD oil for dogs to alleviate symptoms of hip dysplasia due to its ache and inflammation-relieving properties. This reduces pets’ ache and improves their quality of life by easing discomfort and encouraging movement.

Fighting Cancer

Unfortunately, cancer affects 50% of dogs over 10. Cancer poses a significant health risk to dogs, particularly if subjected to chemotherapy or radiation.

Cancer experts are constantly searching for new ways to manage cancer and alleviate the discomfort and nausea that it can cause. And CBD oils have been extensively studied as a cancer-fighting chemical.

CBD decreased the growth of breast cancer cells in mice research. In 2018, their team discovered that CBD helped mice with pancreatic cancer live longer. Other animal research has also shown that CBD oil has cancer-fighting properties and can slow the growth of cancer cells. So, it is clear that CBD oil is beneficial for dogs, as it can help reduce joint ache, inflammation, and discomfort caused by hip dysplasia and even help fight cancer.

Is CBD Safe?

CBD products may be able to manage many pets suffering from normal or chronic joint ache without intoxication or addiction. Furthermore, CBD has no documented side effects, and most topical CBD products don't enter the bloodstream. However, there are some probable adverse effects, such as:

• Weariness
• Diarrhea
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in weight

CBD may also interact with the following substances:

• Prescription medicines and some over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
• Nutritional supplements

You may have also been warned (or at least heard) not to consume grapefruit while taking medications. Grapefruit compounds can temporarily suppress the cytochrome P450 enzymes in the liver, a requisite for the metabolization of certain drugs. Because cannabidiol has a similar inhibitory function, timing your dosing is recommended.

If any of these adverse effects occur, or if you have any other questions or concerns regarding CBD oil for dogs, stop utilizing the oil and seek guidance from your vet.

How To Give Your Dog CBD Oil

The best way to give your dog CBD oil is to mix it into their food or water. When mixing CBD oil into food, it is essential to choose something that your dog will enjoy and that will mask the taste of the oil.

Following the recommended dosage for your dog's size and weight is critical, as indicated on the product label. In addition, it is important to start with the lowest recommended dosage and gradually increase the amount as needed. 

Ensure that you monitor your pet for any adverse reactions, and be sure to contact your veterinarian if you observe any concerning side effects.

Considerations To Find The Right Product

Dog CBD products aren't all made equal. The active ingredient in many CBD oils, pills, and dog treats is insufficient to deliver these advantages. Moreover, some products don't meet quality standards the way others (like Wiggles & Paws CBD Pet Oil) do.

Here's how to identify low-quality products that aren't worth the money and where to get CBD oil for dogs that actually works:

• Tested By A Third-Party Lab: Before purchasing hemp oil, make sure to check purity and dosage. To ensure you're obtaining a high-quality CBD product evaluated for quality and potency, look for a recently tested product approved by a third-party lab. The amount of CBD in the product should be specified on the label. Make sure the product you're purchasing is THC-free.
• Don't only shop based on price: Shopping based on price alone is not always the best way to ensure a high-quality product. Research the company and read reviews from other customers before making a purchase. Check to see if the company is transparent about the testing and manufacturing process.
• Check for CO2 Extraction CBD: CO2 extraction is a method of extracting oil from plants using carbon dioxide. Oils with a greater concentration of CBD are produced by utilizing this extraction method. Consequently, your dog's supplement will be more effective. Naturally, this increases the product's price, but it's worth it.
• No Contaminants Present: You must understand where and how the hemp used to create CBD oil is farmed. This significantly impacts the test results you see in the COA. To limit the risk of environmental toxins, always choose an organic product. You want to know that the soil and water in which it was grown are as pure as possible.

Some CBD pet products fail to meet these safety and efficacy criteria. To help you find the best CBD products, ask your veterinarian for suggestions, or check out our CBD-infused dog treats and shop with your mind at ease.

Caution Before Using CBD Oil

This website's content does not replace a one-on-one relationship with your veterinarian. Don't hesitate to contact your vet before making any changes to your dog's medication regimen. 

CBD oil for dogs is available 'over the counter,' but speaking with your vet before introducing any prescription or supplement is very important because CBD oil can interact with the metabolism of other medications your dog may need.

Is CBD Legal?

CBD products derived from hemp plants (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are technically legal in the United States and Canada. They were made legal in the United States and Canada after passing the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized industrial hemp and its derivatives, including CBD.

However, some dog CBD oil products are still banned in several US states. CBD products produced from marijuana are prohibited on the federal level, although they are legal in several states. 

Check your city's website or read the laws of your state. It's important to remember that nonprescription CBD products aren't FDA-approved and may be mislabeled.

Final Thoughts

We support companies that prioritize animal welfare through service and contributions to rescue pets in need. Remember that CBD oils like "The Wiggles & Paws CBD Pet Oil" can also benefit other animals!

We can extract CBD oil for dogs and other animals from the cannabis plant and utilize it in various ways to help our dogs fight cancer, feel calmer, deal with joint discomfort, etc. In this beginner's tutorial, we discussed how CBD could help with canine ache management. We also discussed CBD's safety and legality and what scientific studies have revealed about its effectiveness in managing ailments for pets.

We hope this blog helps you better understand how CBD oils could benefit your canine companion if your dog deals with arthritis ache, hip dysplasia, or other chronic pain and inflammation problems.

How Can CBD Help A Dog In Pain FAQ

How much CBD should I give my dog?

The exact amount of CBD to give your dog will depend on the size of your dog and the type of ailment being addressed. It's wise to speak with your veterinarian to find the right dosage for your pet.

What are the benefits of CBD oil for dogs?

CBD oil for dogs is a natural, non-toxic remedy for inflammation. It is derived from the cannabis plant but does not contain any of the psychoactive compound THC, meaning it does not produce any kind of 'high' in dogs or other animals. CBD oil has been found to be effective at managing inflammation, anxiety, and even seizures in dogs. It has also been used to effectively alleviate digestive problems. It is a safe, natural way of providing relief from a variety of ailments in dogs.

Is CBD oil safe for dogs?

Yes, CBD oil is safe for dogs when used in the appropriate dosage. It is essential to note that CBD can interact with certain medications, so it is important to consult a veterinarian before giving your dog CBD oil. Additionally, it is imperative to ensure that the CBD oil you are giving your dog is of high quality and free of impurities. It is critical to follow the manufacturer's instructions when administering CBD oil to your pet.

Are there any potential side effects of CBD oil?

CBD oil is generally considered safe for dogs, but it is imperative to be aware of any potential side effects that may arise. These side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, decreased appetite, and diarrhea. If you notice any adverse effects after giving your dog CBD oil, it is important to stop and contact your veterinarian.