CBD Dog Treats and Oil: Benefits, Uses for Anxiety & Recipes to Try

CBD Dog treats

In 1996, the state of California was the first of the U.S. to legalize the use of medical marijuana. Since then, several other states have fallen in line, including some that now support legal recreational use.

As the laws and policies become laxer, we are beginning to see the market flooded with cannabis products, many of which aim to relax and heal.

At the same time, the pet business is a multi-billion dollar a year industry, so it was only a matter of time before companies decided to share the medicinal properties of CBD with not only pet-owners but also the owners’ pets.

This article will take a close look at hemp and CBD products designed specifically for those with four paws, how it affects them, as well as answer any questions you may have.

If you’ve considered introducing CBD products to your pup, then you may already know the benefits of CBD dog treats, but you may not know all the details. Get ready for an in-depth look at CBD dog treats, oils, and topicals.

What are CBD dog treats?

CBD dog treats are non-psychoactive edibles specifically designed for canines. These treats will taste great to your pup, but also make them feel better without feeling odd.

CBD dog treats are easy to administer and, when given in the correct dosage, safe. To better understand what’s in these treats, a little knowledge of where CBD comes from – Cannabis sativa – is beneficial.
Cannabis is a plant from which several medicines can be drawn. Both what we know as marijuana and hashish come from compounds of the plant where high levels of THC are present (the leaves and flowers, or buds, of the plant).

THC is a chemical that is responsible for giving its users euphoric feelings. Often this psychoactive effect is called a “mind high”.

CBD is also found in the cannabis plant, but it is derived from its stalks and seeds, which are often referred to as hemp. Hemp is multifunctional; it can make clothes, lotions, shampoos, and more.

What’s most important to note about hemp is that it has no psychoactive effects because it’s traces of THC are either less than 0.3% or nonexistent.

In the United States, both hemp and CBD, a chemical compound that is derived from hemp, are highly regulated and no traces of THC are allowed.

This means CBD products on the market have a zero percentage of THC and therefore a zero percent chance of making its users feel high or have an altered state of mind. In other words, it’s safe to administer to a pet without worrying about them feeling “out of it” or, essentially, high.

CBD is becoming a more routine form of treatment for cancer patients in recent years, as studies have found the chemical is not only non-toxic but aids the body in fighting off and preventing cancerous cells. Human and canine bodies both have what has been coined the endocannabinoid system.

This system is a series of “sites” in the brain, organs, connective tissue, cells, and glands that respond positively when CBD is introduced to the body.

In fact, scientists have found that our body naturally creates two kinds of cannabinoids, CBD1 and CBD2, which act as maintenance, defense, and healers of the body, keeping us calm when we experience injury, easing inflammation, and even improving our ability to remember things.

Is cannabis good or bad for dogs?

Cannabis sativa, the plant that CBD, hemp, THC, and marijuana are all extracted from, could be dangerous to dogs. There are cases of pets getting into their owner’s stash and having to be hurried into the emergency room.

CBD, however, when given in the correct dosage, is completely safe for your pet. More than being safe, it’s also proven to be beneficial to their health.

CBD products made specifically for canines may not only help ease their anxiety while you’re not home or while on a visit to the dog groomer but can also help them manage the pain levels and shorten the healing time of an injury.

The introduction of canine CBD oils, edibles, or topical creams has been found to prevent and treat the presence of cancer. Topical CBD creams provide localized relief for the animal, soothing a specific aching joint, for instance.

Whether used to treat a serious medical condition or just to keep them calm, CBD products can be an effective addition to your pet’s life.

Benefits and Uses of CBD Dog Treats
CBD promotes the homeostasis, promoting the overall health and functionality of the body. Homeostasis is a state of complete stabilization of the physiological make-up of any given individual, including animals.

Routine administration of CBD to your pet’s diet will ensure both their mental and physical health. This is a why a low-dose CBD dog treat may be an ideal addition to your pet’s daily vitamins. In addition to being a wonderful supplement, CBD products also offer a specific function to a number of ailments and issues.

Pain relief

Specifically, the treatment of nerve pain, which can by very uncomfortable and sharp, as well as pain associated with inflammation.

CBD oils and treats help treat these issues both at its source and by altering how the mind interacts with pain. A topical cream is best used as a pain reliever on a specific injury, such as a broken bone or tender muscle.

Cancer

Unwelcome, cancerous cell growth can form in the body as a tumor. Without, and sometimes even with, treatment, cancer in dogs can be fatal. Studies have found that CBD not only prevents cancer but also stops it from growing.

Like a knight in shining armor, CBD saves the day by helping stop the growth of and killing cancerous cells. It’s also been proven to increase positive results in routine cancer treatment.

Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs come in all forms of personality. While some pets may only experience anxiety during stressful situations (fireworks, a visit to the vet, etc.) others may suffer from separation anxiety which can lead to chewed holes in your shoes or bedding. Yikes!

Meanwhile, there are some pet owners who have to take extra steps to make their pup feel comfortable and safe, as some dogs are just naturally anxious and high-strung.

While all of these issues with canine anxiety differ in their severity, all are successfully treated with CBD products.

Owners can alter their pet’s nervousness or negative experience by setting them up for success with a product that helps assure them there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Allergies

Autoimmune disease or disorders are aided by the medicinal properties of CBD, as well. Dogs will often lick and gnaw on their paws when experiencing allergies, sometimes to the point of causing an infection.

The CBD will also help relax them, keeping them over excessive licking or biting. (Dogs also excessively bite and lick their paws as the result of depression, so if you’re unsure of their behavior, always seek the counsel of your dog’s veterinarian.)

Lack of appetite

A loss of appetite should be brought to the attention of your vet, as this could be the symptom of many health issues. However, if your pup is depressed and not eating due to that, this could be a good addition to their daily supplements.

Additionally, some dogs won’t eat without their “pack” (that’s you!), which means a long 8-hour day at work could mean your pet is going the whole time without eating the bowl of food you left out for them to enjoy.

Providing them with a little CBD treat before you leave will not only help their anxiety of you being gone, but also amp up their appetite, so you can feel a little less guilty about being gone.

Seizures (Epilepsy)

CBD is full of chemical compounds that suppress convulsing. These anticonvulsants help change messages sent to the body to replace a seizure with a sense of calm.

This plays out both in the chemical makeup of the brain but also in the activity of the body’s cells. This is a huge win for the canine community, as epilepsy is the number one neurological disorder found in dogs.

And although, veterinarians were able to prescribe medicines and treatments for dogs suffering from epilepsy previous to the popularity of CBD products, many times these prescriptions came with harmful long-term and short-term effects or else proved ineffective.

Digestive issues

The natural antibiotic properties found in CBD gain positive results when treating digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome.

When properly dosed, CBD will help heal a dog’s colitis (ulcer of the colon), ease inflammation, and restore the digestive system back to its proper function. CBD also helps ease vomiting and nausea.

Sleep Aid

The naturally calming ability of CBD can create drowsiness in your pet. Different products will have different levels of CBD and therefore give different effects.

If you don’t want your pup to be drowsy all the time, we suggest utilizing product specifically designed to be sleep-aids only at night and a different CBD product with lower levels (less drowsiness) for other functions.

Some owners may utilize CBD as a sleep aid while on long car rides or when flying. Likewise, it’s a good tool when visiting family across the state.

Dogs in new environments and around new people can be overly-anxious and stressed and therefore express an inability to relax or even sleep.

Arthritis

The daily and constant discomfort that comes with arthritis can be just as painful to dogs as it is to humans. While CBD products certainly help ease arthritic pain, they also serve as a combative anti-inflammatory that treats the issue long-term.

5 Best Canine CBD Products on the Market Today

CBD can be administered in multiple ways. It’s sold as an oil, a topical cream, and treats. The different ways of ingesting CBD don’t necessarily have different effects, but they can sometimes be absorbed faster, giving your pet quicker relief or even longer-lasting relief.

1. Honest Paws

The Honest Paws brand simplifies the overwhelming shopping experience for dog-owners, by breaking down each of their products to its specific function. Whether you’re in the market for a CBD product that eases pain, anxiety, or seizures – they have it all specified.

Their oils come in bottles that vary in concentration while corresponding to your dog’s weight. Have a dachshund? You’ll need just one drop of their Level 1 CBD oil.

Have a Great Dane? Go for the Level 3 CBD oil for longevity and results. These oils can be mixed into you pup’s food easily. Alternatively, you can try Honest Paw’s edibles, which come in a variety of flavors, but all contain added nutrients and healthy foods.

2. Hemp Fields Farm CBD Dog Treats

Hemp Fields Farm eases dog-owners’ minds while shopping for CBD products for their canine companion. This company uses organically and sustainably grown hemp with pure, beneficial CBD concentrate and is pesticide free.

These treats come in either 150 mg and 300 mg, and as little as one treat per day can give your furry family member all the pain relief or sense of calm they need to feel better.

3. Treatibles Pumpkin Rich Treats

These grain-free treats offer non-psychoactive properties, giving your dog all the benefits of CBD without the THC. An added bonus is that the pumpkin and coconut oil within their recipe promote a healthy digestive system as well as beautiful coat and skin.

Veterinarians agree that dogs with anal gland issues greatly benefit from the introduction of pumpkin to their diets, so if you’re looking for a daily CBD supplement, this could be the perfect treat for your furry friend.

4. Pet Releaf Edibites

Infused with certified USDA organic hemp-derived CBD, Pet Releaf’s Edibites come in a variety of healthy and delicious flavors.

Their kale and carrot flavored Edibites add some wonderful natural supplements to your pet’s CBD fix. Sneak in their veggies in this small, vitamin and nutrient-rich treat! Pet Releaf also makes Canna Care topical cream with CBD.

This is the perfect pain relief for you if your dog is suffering from skin irritations or arthritis as it offers treatment to the specific place that it is applied.

5. Canna-Pet Maple Bacon Biscuits

Canna-Pet’s brand prides itself on providing safe, effective products that are soy, wheat, and corn free.

While their product line varies from treats to oils, the sweet and savory flavor of their Canna-Pet CBD from Help Biscuits will keep your pup enticed and excited. Their ingredients are pure, natural, and simple. They even use real bacon to flavor their treats.

Homemade recipes

Not interested in purchasing CBD products from an outside source? There are some great recipes you can try out at home, just be sure to enlist the help of your dog to ensure their quality is audience approved!

Hemp-based CBD oil is relatively easy to find and purchase in most states. If your local pet supply store doesn’t carry it, then check online.

Just make sure that it is hemp-based CBD and not marijuana-based CBD, as that strain will contain THC, which is a lot more regulated by the federal and state governments.

Once you acquire CBD oil for your pooch, you should then decide how strong or weak you would like the treats to be.

If you would like each treat to be 5 mg of CBD (which is the safest dosage when also considering dogs and puppies under 10 pounds) then you could utilize about 50mg of CBD to make a dozen dog treats, each of around 4-5 mg of CBD.

Utilize the measurement on the bottle’s label to gain the most accurate measurements.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. It’s important to not cook over this temperature as it could evaporate the CBD and all its healthy qualities.

  • 2 cups of flour
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of Coconut oil
  • ½ cup of Peanut butter
  • ½ cup of Pumpkin puree (or mashed sweet potatoes)
  • ½ of Bacon bits
  • 2 eggs
  • 50 mg of CBD

In a large mixing bowl, mix all ingredients until a nice, thick and creamy consistency is reached. Spray a non-stick greaser or rub a cookie sheet with melted butter or coconut oil to ensure the treats don’t stick.

In cupped hands, create palm-sized balls of the batter and drop onto the greased cookie sheet.

Bake 10-12 minutes.

This recipe should yield about a baker’s dozen of doggie treats. The sweet, savory flavor with added crunch and saltiness of the bacon will entice your pup. While they’ll enjoy the flavor, they’ll also enjoy all the benefits of CBD.

FAQ

1. Will my dog get high if I give him Hemp oil?

Do CBD treats make dogs high

No, CBD and hemp are derived from cannabis. It’s important to note that you are not administering mind-altering drugs to your pet if you choose to utilize CBD or hemp oil.

The psychoactive chemical of cannabis is THC which is a different compound than CBD and not exclusively partnered by it. There are no traces of THC in hemp, and in the U.S. all legal CBD products on the market are made from hemp.

Hemp oil is a lot easier to obtain across the nation as it isn’t as regulated as some CBD products (which is still considered an illegal substance in some states).

If you aren’t able to purchase CBD products for your dog based on where you live, seek out hemp products or hemp oil as an alternative. While these products aren’t typically as high in their levels of CBD, they can still be beneficial to your anxious or ailing pup.

Here’s a list of states where CBD is still illegal:

  • Kansa
  • Nebraska
  • Idaho
  • South Dakota
  • Indiana

2. Is it safe to give my dog CBD treats?

If you follow the instructions on the package, it is completely safe to give your dog CBD treats. Overdosing, as with any medical subscription, is possible.

However, the amount of CBD needed to cause real harm to a dog would have to be immense. The most your pup is likely to experience if they do receive more CBD than needed is a little bit of vertigo.

Still, this can be frightening for an animal: to suddenly feel off-balance and funny without any sort of warning. It’s a state referred to as static ataxia where the animal can’t quite keep their balance or even stand up. It’s likely they will also vomit, due to dizziness.

If this state does occur in your dog after giving them a CBD product, seek your veterinarian immediately.

While this state will pass and they will recover, your vet may be able to give you some insight as to why it occurred as well as take some steps to make the animal more comfortable while the stage of vertigo passes.

Death as the result of too much CBD in dogs is rare. Mostly, it has occurred in scientific research. Even in this case, however, the dogs didn’t die as a direct result of the CBD but rather choking on their own vomit.

We can only reiterate the importance of administering the correct dosage for your dog in order to avoid any discomfort in them.

You should always read the instructs before administering a CBD product to your dog. Every product has a different concentration of CBD within it, which is why you can’t trust any general guidelines found online.

3. What is the right dosage?

Unofficially, veterinarians recommend starting at the lowest recommended dosage and adding to it, slowly and not significantly.

Just like humans, dogs can react differently to CBD based on their age and weight, but even still two dogs of the same age, weight, and given the same dosage could still be affected differently.

4. Are veterinarians allowed to make prescriptions?

Current laws regarding cannabis vary by state. Some states only allow the sale of cannabis as a medical supplement or aid, while a referral from a medical professional to buy CBD products may not even be needed in other states.

As a whole, however, CBD is not legal in all 50 states, which means it may not be readily available to your or your pet depending on your location.

Additionally, veterinarians are not technically allowed to prescribe cannabis to your dog, even if it were the best route of treatment for them. Some vets will risk legality by discussing the issue very carefully with their patient’s owners, but they risk losing their license when and if doing so.

While in some states, such as California, a doctor can recommend a CBD supplement to a human patient, veterinarians in the same state are not technically allowed to do the same for their canine and feline patients.

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