Side effects of CBD Oil in Dogs

Two things to know first off:

1. CBD is legal and, by law, contains less than 0.3% THC, meaning your dog won't get high at the recommended dose.

2. CBD oil is considered safe and well tolerated by the World Health Organization (WHO), the leading international health watch' dog' (no pun intended).

On the contrary, there are some side effects you may need to look for. Most of our little guys' 'progress report' come from interacting with their body language. According to Tufts University Center for Shelter Dogs, canines communicate in the following ways:

• Fearful Behavior: Licking lips and crouching.
• Relaxed Communication: Sleeping and lazy behavior.
• Aroused and happy: Easiest to spot; Mouth wide open.
• Aggressive communication: Not always bad and natural, at times, in dog behavior.   

So, now you've got your CBD and chances are you are already pretty familiar with how your dog will 'tell you' how they feel once ingested. This article will explore some things your dog might experience after taking CBD oil. While usually pleasant, we'll also cover some of the side effects your guy might encounter.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD oil is derived from hemp - one of two cannabis varieties (the other being marijuana). While similar to marijuana, hemp is much lower in THC, making it far more superior for CBD manufacturers to get a high-grade CBD without risking getting you high.

Hemp, like all cannabis plants, contains over 100 compounds, known as cannabinoids, that work with your ECS. The ECS, or Endocannabinoid System, is a complex network that helps regulate everything from organ function to mood and emotional well-being.

Benefits: CBD Oil for Dogs

Just like humans, all dogs have an ECS. Once CBD is ingested, cannabinoid receptors known as CB1 and CB2 send signals to your dog's brain and body - thus delivering relief for a variety of ailments, including:

• Arthritisand joint pain
• Seizures
• Skin flare-ups
• Anxiety
• PTSD (shelter dogs)
• Hyperactivity
• Depression
• Sleep
• Inflammation
• Cancer

What Are Side Effects of CBD Oil for Dogs?

Because dogs suffer from a high rate of epilepsy, and the CBD-based anti-epileptic was recently approved for humans, the American Kennel Club sponsored a study on CBD for dogs with seizures. While more research is needed regarding CBD's anti-convulsant effects on dogs, the study did help shed light on some side effects.

Nausea

Dogs often communicate their likes or dislike of new food by vomiting. Many dog breeds, like boxers, for example, are susceptible to many foreign foods. CBD has been shown to affect human appetites, so it's natural to assume your dog may also have some internal digestion issues. 

Diarrhea

Another digestive issue your canine may have after taking CBD is diarrhea - although this may be more difficult to determine as CBD may interact with something else they ate. Many dog owners, for example, put CBD oil on treats, like peanut butter, that may interact negatively with your dog's tummy.

Dry Mouth

If you've ever had cannabis, you know one of the first side effects you notice is cottonmouth. Same with dogs. If you catch them licking constantly, it may be from their CBD. Although dry mouth eventually disappears, it's essential to keep an eye on it. Dogs need plenty of saliva for optimal dental hygiene.

Lethargic

CBD provides calmness and well-being, which sometimes causes lethargic=c behavior in your dog. While not always considered a side effect, especially if you're treating your guy for anxiety, it may mean lowering your dose.

Dizzy Spells

Suppose your dog loses their balance after taking CBD. In that case, you may need to lower its dosage or consider buying a THC-free product, as that compound may carry more psychoactive risk. 

Dry Skin

If your little guy is scratching after CBD application, you might need to switch things up. Dogs, like humans, are prone to dry skin and other issues, like eczema. Although CBD has been shown to treat skin conditions potentially, it's always best to monitor their behavior after you apply CBD - especially as a cream or lotion.

Liver Enzyme Imbalance

Like most medications, CBD affects liver enzymes. Like humans, dogs process liver enzymes. Some suggest CBD helps increase liver enzyme levels. If you think your dog's not properly metabolizing its CBD, check with your veterinarian, as it may result from an imbalanced liver.

Low Blood Pressure

Like some medications, CBD may also lower your dog's blood pressure. Most of the time, you won't have to worry about this issue, as it generally only occurs in substantial doses.

What To Look For When Buying CBD Dog Oil

To limit side effects, there are a few things you'll want to consider when purchasing CBD for your dog. Because CBD is not FDA-governed, look to answer a few of the following questions so you know your dog is only getting the best CBD on the market.

Is Your CBD Organic?

We source all our CBD dog oil from organic, American farms - which means that no harmful pesticides wind up in your dog's CBD.

Is It Lab Tested?

Eden's Herbals tests all our CBD through an independent third party to ensure purity and quality. We also publish the results of the findings on our website link.

Should I Use THC For My Dog?

Our CBD Dog Oil is formulated to be completely free of THC, the compound responsible for making you high. However, your dog will benefit from broad-spectrum CBD - which contains more than 100 compounds in cannabis.

How Is Your CBD Extracted?

Lastly, we use an expensive process known as CO2 extraction. Far superior to chemical extraction, CO2 extraction technology removes all solvents and impurities from the final CBD product.

Key Reminders

For the best CBD experience your dog can have, consider following some of the above tips. If your dog's never had CBD, talk to your vet first and start with the lowest possible dose. Our CBD dog oil comes with a dropper for easy application, or you can put a few drops on a treat and reward them with some CBD. 

You can also snag a bag of our CBD dog treats containing 250 mg of CBD per bag and make a great snack between their CBD oil.

If you want to learn more about Side effects of CBD oil in 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.