Separation anxiety is an issue found in most dogs, especially puppies and rescue dogs. Of concern is when dogs become too worried or anxious once they are left on their own or separated from their owners. Typical signs include barking and howling or even trying to escape.
While traditional behavior modification therapy and medication is effective to some extent, many pet owners are now opting for CBD as a more natural approach to relieve their dog’s anxiety. But how does CBD work and is it safe to use on dogs? Together let us look at how this compound could aid the mental health of your little furry friend!
Understanding CBD
CBD or Cannabidiol is a compound that does not alter mental state, and is present in hemp plants. Unlike THC, CBD does not lead to a high state being experienced by humans and animals. Rather, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system which is a collection of receptors responsible for controlling mood and stress levels, also referred to as ECS.
SECS is similar in dogs. It acts on ECS receptors that relax the body, mitigate stress, and restores equilibrium which is very effective in alleviating anxiety.
How CBD Can Help Dogs with Separation Anxiety
Encourages Relaxation
CBD works on relaxing a dog’s nerves before an owner leaves. This is due to its action on cortisol, the stress hormone, which tends to get elevated and needs to be controlled in anxious moments.
Enhances Sleep
Anxious dogs that have difficulty sleeping, especially at night, may benefit from CBD interacting with selective sleep receptors of an animal, thereby improving both the duration and quality of sleep.
Lessens Destructive Actions
Separation anxiety makes dogs to engage in excessive barking, chewing, or digging and may benefit from CBD due to its relaxing action that helps ease panic-like symptoms associated with heightened agitation.
Might Increase Training Outcomes
CB has been known to aid in behavioral issues, which does not mean behavioral training should be abandoned altogether. The combination of CBD and behavior modification makes it easier for a dog to follow commands due to the reduction in anxiety associated with the dog.
Administering CBD to Dogs
Forms of CBD for dogs include:
- CBD Treats or Chews: Available in appealing dog flavors and great for fussy eaters.
- CBD Oils or Tinctures: Simple to measure, they can be placed in food, given directly, or calculated with precision and administered through a syringe.
- Topical Balms: This type is most commonly used for pain management and other skin issues, although it may assist with relaxation when applied lightly.
For separation anxiety, CBD oil or CBD infused treats for dogs tend to be the most effective. Their effect is best felt when administered around 30 – 60 minutes prior to leaving the pet alone.
Dosage Instructions
The correct dosage of CBD for dogs is quite different for each individual, depending on their weight, age, and sensitivity to the substance. A suitable approach would be to start with dosing of 0.25mg of CBD for each pound and adjusting proportionately according to the noticed improvements.
Example:
- Small dog (less than 20 lbs): 5mg of CBD daily
- Medium dog (20-60lbs): 10-20mg of CBD daily
- Large dog (60lbs +): 20-30mg of CBD daily
Starting a CBD treatment plan is best done through a veterinarian, particularly where other medications are involved.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
CBD is deemed safe for dogs if administered with caution. It is best to purchase CBD meant for pets as it is free from harmful substances, and untested products should never be relied on for CBD.
It should also be noted that CBD products which contain Delta 9 THC should not be given to dogs. Though this element is allowed, under certain limits, in hemp products, it becomes detrimental to dogs when given in larger quantities. Always use pet-safe full-spectrum CBD or THC-free formulations.
What to Look for in a Quality CBD Product
- CBD should come from an industrial hemp source that has 0.3 percent THC.
- Checking the COA for cannabinoid content and purity should be done for every lab-tested sample.
- Products for human consumption tend to have more dangerous ingredients, therefore it is better to use those formulated for pets.
Fillers, synthetic flavors and preservatives need to be stripped off the product making it ideal to use.Some pet manufacturers add chamomile and valerian root extracts, or THCA flower extracts, which is a non-psychoactive component from cannabis, to enhance the relaxing effects of CBD without interfering with betel intoxication.
Other Tips for Managing Anxiety during Absence
CBD has to be included in a comprehensive approach, so in addition, these strategies can help support the dog:
- Use of background sounds: Soft music, or white noise eases the feeling of lonliness.
- Adhere to a schedule: Fixed times for activities such as feeding, exercising, and sleeping aid to reduce anxiety.
Finishing Up
Both pets and their owners face equal estrangement anxiety is troubling and can be taxing. While approaches like crate training alongside CBD which is a relatively recent trend as a natural treatment and aid for easing the anxiety stemming from alone time and attention seeking behaviors hyper attention seeking hyper actively ease gap easing alone time concerns continues to be perpetual.
As for CBD, make sure it is from a noted veterinarian pet product expert. It is better to start at a vet suggested CBD dosage and increase step wise. Provided with the right conditions, CBD can effectively address separation anxiety in pets when given in the right situation and dosage.
English (US) · 