CBD for Dogs With Anxiety
While quarantining in response to COVID-19, many people found themselves working from home with ample free time and adopted or fostered animals such as dogs. This seems like the perfect time to welcome a furry friend into your home but the unfortunate reality is that, as we return to work and leave our pups behind for several hours of the day after weeks or months being inseparable, these dogs are now exhibiting separation anxiety.
That is not to say that dogs adopted outside of COVID-19 circumstances do not struggle with separation anxiety; it is estimated that approximately 20 to 40% of dogs that visit veterinarian clinics have separation anxiety. The majority of dogs exhibiting signs of separation anxiety do not receive any treatment or help. CBD poses incredible anxiety-relieving and stress-reducing benefits in humans and could be an affordable option for pet parents looking to help relieve their dogs’ anxiety.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive compound found in all cannabis plants. CBD reacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body of most mammals to regulate dozens of natural processes including sleep, mood, appetite, and inflammation. CBD interacts with these endocannabinoid receptors to better regulate the body’s natural functions.
CBD has gained a substantial amount of popularity over this last year due to hemp being completely legalized in 2018. This allowed retailers to start selling this wonderful product across the country, including your local pet store.
This article will explore how CBD can help your dog with separation anxiety or other stress in their life.
Does My Dog Have Seperation Anxiety?
When determining if your dog might struggle with separation anxiety, it is important to be aware of common symptoms. This may include having accidents in the house, if your dog is already potty trained, and your pup might start eating their own feces. Other common symptoms include chewing, digging, escaping, pacing/panting without reason, trembling, loss of appetite, and aggression. Keep an eye out for these symptoms and confer with your furry friend’s veterinarian before giving them CBD.
What Causes Seperation Anxiety in Dogs?
Separation anxiety in dogs is caused by a number of different stressful events that are often associated with change. Causes of separation anxiety include change in families, routines, houses/locations, and the absence/death of family members. A change in routine can be as simple as a new work schedule, which is particularly concerning as people are returning to work in-person.
Returning to work may be stressful for your pup who spent the last several months getting all the attention they could ask for as you worked from home. Changes in families can also cause anxiety for dogs; this is something to be aware of when taking in an animal that may have been abandoned or is being rehomed with a new owner.
Moving is especially stressful for puppies who may not have much experience being away from their littermates. As your pup settles into their new home and family, be aware that the loss or absence of a family member can trigger their anxiety. This can be as simple as one caregiver being away at work or out of town for longer than usual but may become more complex as people pass away.
How Can CBD Help with Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
As of now, there is not enough of research on how CBD affects dogs because most CBD-related research is conducted using human subjects. With that being said, dogs have an endocannabinoid system just like humans that likely respond to CBD in similar ways. For example, current research in treating anxiety in dogs does not show negative effects such as worsening anxiety. The potential benefits of CBD for dogs is encouraging!
CBD Oil Dosage for Dogs
When people decide to try using CBD, it is crucial that they consult with their doctors beforehand. Similarly, you should consult your pet’s veterinarian before giving CBD to your furry friend. In most cases, using a ratio of 2mg of CBD per 10lbs of the dog’s weight is standard. This would mean that a 50 pound dog would get about 10mg of CBD to treat their anxiety. We recommend combining CBD oil with your pup’s favorite treat/food or giving them pre-infused CBD treats. Some dogs also do well with CBD being placed directly in their mouths, much like how people use a CBD tincture.
Give your dog their CBD treat about half an hour before you leave so it has ample time to take effect. At the beginning of using, be as consistent as possible. We advise that you give your pup CBD at the same time every day for several days in a row. Slowly adjust the dose as needed and be aware that it may take a few days for your dog to display signs of relief from their anxiety.
Read this post on our personal blog too! Best CBD Oils for Dogs with Anxiety