If you follow developments in cannabis research, you know that the cannabinoid CBD can support our aging bodies, boost muscle recovery, and may even help promote better mental wellness. While much of the conversation is around CBD for us human beings, any pet owner knows that our four-legged friends age just like we do. Is there a CBD for dogs?

Many pet parents have been using CBD dog treats for joint pain for a while now, and the anecdotal evidence that CBD helps our aging furry friends has spurred medical researchers to start investigating CBD for pets more closely. Because we’re animal lovers ourselves, we’re especially excited to share the latest research around this topic!

CBD for Dogs: What the Science Says

Cannabis for pets may sound surprising, but there is a reason CBD has become so widely used among pet owners. For one, CBD does not produce the same intoxicating effects that THC does.

Over and above that, human research on CBD is supporting its use for a long list of therapeutic effects, including reducing tension relief and improved sleep, among others.

But CBD for dogs? It turns out that—like all cannabinoids—CBD interacts with a crucial regulatory network called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Responsible for helping control immune system response, memory, sleep, and other critical functions, the ECS is present in all animals, including dogs. And when it comes to joint pain—a distressingly common symptom believed to affect at least 20% of dogs over one year old—CBD is a safe and well-tolerated option.

Veterinarians are also becoming aware of the benefits cannabis and CBD may have for our aging pets, and in 2017 the American Veterinary Medical Association (or AMVA) drafted a resolution that called for the federal rescheduling of cannabis, on the grounds that the cannabis plant’s benefits for pets (not to mention their owners) far outweighs its risks.

What about using CBD for your pet's stress? This is an area of research that is still developing, though pet owners report that they are happy using CBD for their pets and scientific study has shown it is safe and well-tolerated in dogs.

What’s the Best CBD for Dogs? Stick With Pure and Natural Products

If you’re planning to use CBD for the care of animals, we recommend starting out CBD products that contain 0.3% or less. While THC can be therapeutic for animals who are dealing with intense pain or severe medical conditions, our pets tend to be much more sensitive to the effects of THC and it should be given with the help and guidance of your veterinarian.

As many clinicians point out, it’s important to know where your CBD comes from. At Papa & Barkley, the care of animals is important to us and we make our award-winning CBD products from 100% USA-grown hemp plants that are clean and healthy for humans and pets. Then we apply heat, pressure, and water to extract the CBD and infuse it with a carrier oil to produce a clean, potent, and effective full-spectrum oil. It’s great for you, and as you now know, it’s great for our four-legged friends, too!

Do you have other questions about the best CBD for dogs or how you can use this gentle natural product to improve your pet’s quality of life? Reach out anytime; we’re always here to help!