So, to start with the basics...

What actually is CBD?

CBD stands for Cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is one of the many active compounds found in the Cannabis plant, but it’s not the psychoactive component. In other words, it’s not the one that gets you high - that’s Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

What does CBD do?

Anecdotally noted to have many of the same effects as THC without any psychiatric effect,humans taking CBD often feel more at ease, notice a reduction in pain and lower levels of anxiety. 

So can this work for our dogs?

While tests and trials for human consumption are highly researched, the same can’t be said for CBD and dogs. For this reason, most veterinarians and pet care professionals can’t recommend CBD products, even if they use these products with their own dogs.

That’s because as of 2020,CBD products for pets are not officially sanctioned by the FDA. This means that whilst they aren’t illegal, they also can’t be prescribed or recommended by health professionals. 

However, this doesn't mean you can’t still discuss CBD with your vet. It simply means that your vet may be unable to help you procure oils, or advise you to use it. 

This could change in the near future with further research. Why? Because some of it has, indeed, been promising.

What does the current research say about CBD and dogs?

• A 2020 study into how CBD affects dogs with painful osteoarthritis found that a placebo group showed no improvement, while a group of dogs who took CBD saw significant improvement in their mobility and quality of life.
• A 2019 study found a significant reduction in seizure frequencywas achieved for eplieptic dogs in the CBD group, however the sample size was very small. 
• A 2018 study found that dogs showed decreased arthritic painduring CBD treatment.
• In a 1988 study, researchers concluded that hemp-based CBD appears safe in healthy dogs and cats. However, they noted adverse effects (like vomiting and diarrhea) in some of the subjects. 

So…

Could CBD oil be an option for your dog?

Though this research is interesting, there is still not enough concrete evidence to suggest CBD is the “wonder drug” it’s anecdotally been touted as. Nevertheless, it may be of use if your dog has any chronic pain or anxiety issues. If you do choose to try CBD oil, it’s wise to think about the following:

• Consult your vet- having a conversation with your vet can help you to work out if any underlying issues might mean CBD isn’t the right option for your dog, or if the oils might be incompatible with any current medication.
• Use a pet-specific product- so that the concentration levels are right for pet consumption. Also, as many human-friendly CBD products are in gummy form, they usually contain Xylitol for flavor, which is toxic to dogs.
• Look for a certificate - a certificate of analysis is proof that the oil has been examinedby a third-party laboratory. This can protect you and your dog from any fake or poor-quality products.

When using the products, your dog might encounter some side effects.The most common include:

• Sedation and sleepiness
• Increased appetite
• General lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea 

If you notice anything out of the ordinary, or that worries you, don’t hesitate to speak to your veterinarianand get your dog checked out. 

A little sleepiness is considered pretty normal, so if Fido is happy and relaxed then they are tolerating the CBD well. If it seems to boost their quality of life, then perhaps it could be the “wonder drug”after all.