As a dog parent, you can attest that any form of discomfort in dogs is easily noticeable. Dogs can communicate their struggles through voice or body language. Witnessing your dog go through pain is one of the most depressing situations. Not being able to help them is much worse.
If you are experiencing such a situation with your furry friend, you might have heard about CBD oil. Perhaps you thought it was just a passing trend. Well, you might need to consider it for the well-being of your dog.
CBD oil is a reliable approach to alleviating your dog’s suffering. It is an all-natural remedy for pain alongside other physical and mental health issues. This article offers a general overview of CBD oil and its potential benefits for dogs with joint and muscle discomfort.
Let’s delve in.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one among many compounds of the cannabis plant. CBD oil comes from a mixture of the extracted cannabidiol from the cannabis plant and a carrier oil like coconut oil or hemp seed.
It is non-toxic for dogs because it does not contain THC (the psychoactive cannabis compound). It can be consumed sublingually or applied topically. Here is a list CBD oil for dogs that can help deal with ailments like chronic pain, anxiety, and inflammation, just to name a few.
Causes of Joint Discomfort in Dogs
Dogs of all ages and breeds can experience joint pain. However, senior large breeds are the most affected. When your dog is having joint pain, at first, it seems like it is slowing down due to old age. If you notice your dog “slowing down,” take the necessary precautions to prevent the problem from escalating.
Here are some of the reasons why dogs suffer from back pain.
- Joint disease
- Degenerative joint disorder
- Joint injury
- Weak muscles and ligaments
- Chronic arthritis
How Does CBD Oil Alleviate Joint and Muscle Discomfort?
Here are ways through which CBD oil for dog’s arthritis can help your furry friend.
It Helps in Pain Management
CBD can naturally interact with the Endocannabinoid system – the system that regulates immunity and matters related to inflammation. It inhibits the ECS receptors that help with pain signaling in the body such that there is no discomfort and pain perception.
It Has Anti-inflammatory Effects
CBD oil also has Anti-Inflammatory benefits, whereby it can activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors to regulate anti-inflammatory responses. It also lowers the production and release of the signaling molecules that cause inflammation (cytokines). CBD can also inhibit molecules and enzymes that facilitate inflammation (inflammatory mediators) to ensure limited production of inflammatory substances.
CBD Helps With Muscle Relaxation
Your dog could be experiencing muscle spasms, stiffness, or discomfort from some medical conditions, aging, or injury. CBD can activate cannabinoid receptors in the body to influence the relaxation and toning of the muscles. It can also reduce muscle tension through its anti-inflammatory properties. CBD may also interact with receptors like serotonin in the body to influence the effect of muscle control and relaxation, giving your dog an easy time.
CBD Can Reduce Anxiety in Dogs
When dogs are in pain and discomfort, they tend to change their behavior. For instance, they can start pacing as they try to cope with the situation. They could also fear pain, making them reduce their movements.
So, through its interaction with the ECS, CBD can regulate psychological processes like anxiety responses, stress, and mood. It does so with the help of its anxiolytic effects.CBD can also increase the availability of serotonin, one of the neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of relaxation and well-being.
It Enhances Mobility in Dogs
When you use CBD oil on your dog, it has the capacity to ease the discomfort that is affecting its mobility. Its analgesic properties prevent the dog from perceiving the pain in its joints so that it can move freely. It can also alleviate stiffness of the joints and relax the muscles to increase the dog’s activity.
The Appropriate CBD Oil Dosage for Your Dog
The optimal dosage can vary depending on factors like your dog’s weight, the severity of the pain, their size, weight, and how they respond to CBD oil. Also, you need to note that the concentration of CBD in the product matters, so you should be careful to give the right portions.
CBD is not regulated like the usual medications, so it has no standard dosage to cater to all dogs. However, you can start with 0.25mg of CBD for every pound of body weight and administer it twice a day. Check how the dog behaves or responds by monitoring his comfort level, mobility, or behavior. If there is no significant improvement, increase the dose gradually as you do step-by-step monitoring.
How Can You Give CBD Oil to Your Furry Friend?
Look for a high-quality CBD oil product and ensure it is made specifically for pets. You can then administer the oil in their food or directly orally. Adding a few drops of CBD oil to their food is easier as some dogs may not like the oil’s taste.
Joint pain is common in dogs, but as a pet parent, it is crucial that you don’t ignore it. CBD is an excellent alternative to help the dog regain its stable condition. As you begin the process, it is important to work with a veterinarian so that they can give you proper guidance depending on your situation.
