We all want to give our dogs the best life possible. These lovable members of the family bring joy to our homes with their wagging tails, happy greetings, and, of course, their endless shedding. Because of this, it’s only natural to look for ways to support their well-being and help them live comfortably and happily for as long as possible.
For many dog owners, incorporating CBD into their pet’s daily routine has made a noticeable difference. Many have reported improvements in their dog’s overall quality of life. But with all the attention CBD is getting, it’s fair to wonder whether it truly lives up to the growing hype.
Research Shows a Reduction in Stress Related to Car Rides
While car rides can be relaxing for humans, especially with music playing and a favorite drink in hand, they are often not as enjoyable for some dogs. It’s actually pretty common for dogs to experience anxiety during car rides, even if the destination is somewhere exciting like the park.
In a study published in early 2024 by the Journal of Animal Science, researchers examined the effects of daily CBD on dogs experiencing car-related stress. The study involved 20 dogs over a six-month period, with each dog receiving a daily oral dose of CBD adjusted to their body weight for the best absorption and effect.
The researchers concluded that car travel did, in fact, induce stress in the dogs participating in the study. However, the dogs who received a daily CBD dose showed signs of reduced stress across several different measurements. The study specifically noted that daily dosing at 4 mg per kilogram of body weight appeared to have a mild calming effect, suggesting that CBD may help dogs feel more at ease when traveling in a car.
Randomized Study Finds Evidence of Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for Dogs with OA
Seeing our loyal companions face the challenges of aging is never easy. It is heartbreaking to watch them deal with conditions like osteoarthritis, especially knowing how much they rely on us for comfort and care. Certain breeds, including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Boxers, tend to be more susceptible to arthritis compared to others.
Research published in 2020 provides promising insight into how CBD might help ease this discomfort. The study highlighted the anti-inflammatory potential of CBD and its possible role in relieving the pain associated with canine osteoarthritis. Throughout a four-week trial, researchers noted that CBD not only reduced pain but also improved mobility in a way that depended on the dosage, offering hope for dogs diagnosed with this painful condition.
The Bottom Line
Research highlighted above shows that CBD may offer promising benefits for our furry companions. Still, it is important for pet owners to be careful when choosing a CBD product for their pet. Not every product is created equally, which makes understanding what to look for incredibly important.
When shopping for pet-friendly CBD, it is essential to choose a high-quality product from a trusted brand. Things like safe ingredients for dogs, easy access to brand contact information for questions, and a Certificate of Analysis to verify quality and compliance are all indicators of a brand you can trust. Reputable brands go beyond just selling a product—they offer transparency, education, and resources to help pet owners make the best choice for their pets, whether they are looking for a topical, an edible, or a tincture.
While the research into CBD for dogs is still developing, the early results are encouraging. These studies give pet owners the tools they need to make educated choices about using CBD to support their pets’ health. At the end of the day, we all want what is best for our furry family members. Could CBD be the right choice for your dog?