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Understanding CBD For Pets
It seems as though everywhere you look, someone is advertising CBD oil/products for pets. Pet owners are flocking to these products and they are flying off the shelves - but there is a problem. The CBD industry is still unregulated! That means not all CBD products are created equal. When searching for CBD for pets, here are some of the top features you need to look for:
- Look for Full Or Broad Spectrum Hemp – CBD (Cannabidiol) is a naturally found substance in both the cannabis and hemp plants. In cannabis (marijuana), there is a somewhat large amount of THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. With cannabis, THC is what is responsible for psychoactive activities. With CBD, your dog will benefit from the reduction in anxiety, but will not get “high”.
- Certificate Of Analysis – If your pet’s CBD doesn’t have a certificate of analysis (COA) don’t buy it! A certificate of analysis is usually from a third-party laboratory and is a document that shows both the amount and type of CBD used in the product. Each batch of CBD used should have its own COA. If the COA isn’t listed on the manufacturer’s website, be sure to ask for it before buying the product.
- What To Look For On The COA – Make sure that the amount of CBD on the label is the same amount listed on the COA.
What Can Full Spectrum Hemp Oil Do For Pets?
According to our trusted partner’s Treatibles website, full spectrum hemp oil can be highly beneficial in helping to ease anxiety, promote healthy joints and digestion, maintain the body’s normal inflammatory response, address discomfort, loss of appetite, nausea, end of life comfort and more.
What Are Endocannabinoids and Phytocannabinoids in CBD for Pets?
Treatibles also dives into the logistics of CBD for pets and the differences between endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids. Per Treatibles, Cannabinoids are a group of naturally occurring chemical compounds present in both animals and the plant genus cannabis, which includes both hemp and cannabis. The prefix phyto means plant. Phytocannabinoids are cannabinoids derived from plants, and Endocannabinoids are derived from within. When there is an endocannabinoid deficiency, it is appropriate to consume phytocannabinoids to address the deficiency.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a biochemical communication system that regulates the peripheral and central nervous system including the brain, immunological system, organs, and vital physiological functions. It promotes homeostasis, ensuring the major systems of the body work synergistically. When there is a deficiency of endocannabinoid production, the ECS’s multiple receptors utilize the addition of phytocannabinoids to help create calm, ease, and balance and provide support for relaxing, repairing, or restoring.
The naturally occurring compounds in hemp are important for the overall health of dogs, cats, humans, horses, and all animals. Dogs are especially responsive to these compounds as they have the highest concentration of cannabinoid receptors in their brains and bodies (even in their salivary glands and hair follicles!) compared to other animals, including humans. Generally speaking, all species are more sensitive to phytocannabinoids than humans, and this may have something to do with the number of receptors found in their systems.
If you're interested in learning more, check out the Treatibles FAQ page. Interested in Treatibles products? Browse Jeffers' full line of Treatibles CBD products for dogs. 
CBD Dosage For Dogs
Each bottle of CBD is sold with a particular concentration, which is expressed in milligrams (mg). The general rule of thumb is to give 1 mg to 6 mg of CBD oil per 10 pounds of body weight. For anxiety, you’ll find that the lower doses usually work well. If your dog is suffering from immune or pain problems, you may want to use a larger amount. When using CBD, it's best practice to begin with a smaller dose and work your way up from there.
The first step is to calculate how many milligrams (mg) of CBD your dog should have based on their weight. In general, a safe place to start is 0.2 mg of CBD per pound of weight. So, if your dog weighs 25 pounds, start by giving them 5 mg. of CBD. After that step, it’s time to calculate how much oil to give your dog based on how many milligrams (mg) of CBD is present in each milliliter (ml) of oil. This will depend on the formula strength you’re using. Below are a few common formula strengths along with how much CBD is in each one:
- 75 mg formula = 2.5 mg of CBD per ml of oil.
- 150 mg formula = 5 mg of CBD per ml of oil.
- 300 mg formula = 10 mg of CBD per ml of oil.
- 600 mg formula = 20 mg of CBD per ml of oil.
So for a 25- pound pet who needs 5 mg of CBD, you’d give him 2 ml of the 75 mg formula, 1 ml of the 150 mg formula, or 0.5 ml of the 300 mg formula. For best results, follow label directions.
Possible Side Effects of CBD in Dogs
Currently, there isn't any scientific data on the side effects of CBD usage for dogs, but there are a few potential side effects found by how CBD affects humans. To help reduce any potential side effects, be sure to follow the proper dosage. If you have any questions concerning your pet's health, or if you want to know if CBD is right for your pet, please consult your veterinarian. To check out Jeffers' full selection of CBD for dogs along with other options for helping ease their stress and anxiety, check out anxiety and calming products for dogs.
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Renee Jones, CPDT-KSA, is a certified professional dog trainer, having received instruction from canine behaviorist Dr. Pamela Reid, plus nationally acclaimed trainers: Patricia McConnell, Pia Silvani, and Jean Donaldson, to name a few. She is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She serves as a Pet Marketing and Canine Specialist for Jeffers Pet.