With the recent passage of The Farm Bill Act, the demand for CBD has grown tremendously - and as much as we love our dogs, many wonder if hemp and CBD can help them, too.
However, some confusion remains with the popularity of which type of cannabis works best for your dog.
While hemp and CBD oil are similar, there are some differences. This post will discuss the key similarities and differences between hemp and CBD. We'll also demonstrate which product is best suited for your dog's condition(s). Keep reading to learn which one offers your dog the most benefits.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is derived from hemp seed, which is actually a nut. Also, known as cannabis Sativa, hemp has been used for thousands of years in everything from rope to spices. Unlike its more famous cousin, marijuana, hemp contains a few psychoactive compounds (THC).
Hemp oil is a rich source of "good fats" , mainly heart-healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. For years, the U.S. Government classified hemp as a narcotic because of its belief that it was an abusive drug. However, once the Farm Bill Act was passed in 2018, hemp once again emerged in the consumer marketplace.
How Hemp Oil Helps Dogs
Even though hemp seed oil contains no cannabinoids, there's a host of other benefits your dog will enjoy, including:
Skin Conditions
If your dog constantly itches or feels compelled to lick itself excessively, it may have a skin condition, such as atopic dermatitis. Hemp seed oil helps protect your dog's coat through its fatty acid profile and ability to improve immune response.
Heart Health
Hemp seed oil has an excellent Omega-3 to Omega-6 profile, ranking it alongside fish oil as a heart-healthy supplement.
Joint Health
Your dog's joints will also benefit from hemp oil. A recent study showed that hemp seeds reduced arthritis pain 25% more than the placebo used, thanks to hemp's fatty acid profile.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is extracted from the hemp flower, not the seed or nut, like hemp oil. CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of two active ingredients found in hemp, the other being THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). CBD works by interacting with your ECS (Endocannabinoid) receptors to improve immune response functions.
The good news is your dog also has an ECS system, making them just as sensitive to therapeutic treatment as you. CBD won't get your dog high, but you may want to consider buying a full spectrum to enjoy its full benefits. Full-spectrum CBD contains over 100 active compounds present in the cannabis plant, providing an entourage effect - whereby all ingredients work together to provide maximum relief.
How CBD Helps Dogs
Because most CBD research conducted uses animals and the fact that dogs contain an ECS system, it's safe to say CBD treats the following canine conditions:
Dog Dementia
Known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD), your dog may suffer from effects similar to Alzheimer's Disease (AD) in humans. In Alzheimer's animal subjects, scientists determined long-term CBD treatment prevents social recognition deficits.
Treating Pain
Recent studiesshow CBD's ability to decrease pain in animal subjects with acute arthritis. Additionally, animals given CBD showed improved fracture healing. For those older dogs, it can also help with mobility and overall mood.
Anxiety Relief
Some dog breeds (hi boxer owners!) are more prone to anxiety or high-strung. Preclinical evidence conclusively shows CBD's effectiveness at treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), separation anxiety, as well as PTSD. CBD also helps with the fear of loud noises such as fireworks and sirens.
Hemp VS. CBD: Which Works Best For Dogs?
CBD contains much more therapeutic value, but each dog is unique. For example, you may have a healthy dog who's getting along in years. If you're just looking to supplement his heart health, hemp seed oil makes a great addition to his regimen. Hemp seed oil also makes an excellent fit for minor aches and pains and is suitable for overall health.
CBD may be the best option if you're looking for more serious treatments. CBD contains potent ingredients that work with your dog's ECS system to provide healing. Consider buying a full-spectrum CBD when treating your dog's condition, as it has over 100 terpenes, or ingredients, that work in tandem to provide maximum relief.
Is Hemp and CBD Safe for My Dog?
Yes. According toThe World Health Organization (WHO), CBD is safe and well-tolerated. By law, CBD contains no more than 0.3% THC, so your dog won't get high, either. Some owners may still be apprehensive about giving their dog THC, making CBD isolate a better fit.
CBD isolate contains no THC, but your dog will still receive all the benefits of cannabidiol. Although not as effective as full-spectrum, CBD isolate allows more flexibility and options in treating your dog's condition.
Dosing Hemp and CBD for Your Dog
One of the best ways to give your dog hemp or CBD is simply mixing it with their food. When giving your dog hemp oil, avoid mixing it in with chicken. Both chicken and hemp oil contain high levels of polyunsaturated fats and linoleic acid, causing an imbalance in their fat intake.
CBD oil will usually come with a dosing vial, marked in 0.25 ml increments. Start with the lowest amount (0.25) and work your way up after two weeks. Look for changes in your dog's behavior and condition to see which dose works best.
Hemp and CBD for Dogs: Final Thought
A quality life often starts by making the right choices. Our dogs are no different. By adding CBD, hemp, or both together, solid research shows that your dog will benefit. CBD and hemp are also easy to incorporate into their diet. Many dog owners combine the oil with peanut butter or other treats to help ease digestion. Add CBD to your dog's daily routine to help them with inflammation, pain, anxiety, and even sleep.
You can also skip the oil and buy a CBD dog treat. Ours is 99% pure CBD and lab-tested to free pesticides or residual solvents. Before starting a CBD or hemp regimen, check with your veterinarian. Once they start, you should notice improved mobility and less anxiety in your dog. Bottom line: If you want a full, therapeutic, high-quality product for your dog - choose a full-spectrum CBD oil.
If you want to learn more about CBD VS Hemp oil for dogs, contact Eden's Herbals at support@edensherbals.com today!
*These statements have not been evaluated or approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness. Medical advice should be taken from a medical professional.
All of the articles on this site are written by 3rd party content providers, expert bloggers or doctors not directly affiliated with Eden's Herbals.
Individuals should learn the risks and side effects prior to taking CBD. Make sure to always check with a medical professional before starting any new CBD treatment or medication that is not FDA approved.
