In recent years, cannabidiol (CBD) has become a popular treatment for various human conditions, including anxiety, stress, pain, and inflammation. 

With so many people finding relief from CBD, it's no surprise that pet parents are wondering if CBD dog treats might help their four-legged friends. 

Today, we're taking a closer look at CBD dog treats. We will cover the following topics to better understand how CBD might help your pup: 


  • Are CBD treats good for dogs?
  • How can I give CBD to my dog?
  • Benefits of CBD for dogs
  • How do CBD dog treats work? 

By the end of this article, you will have a good understanding of CBD dog treats and whether or not they are right for your furry friend. 


What Is CBD?


CBD is short for cannabidiol, one of over 100 cannabinoids in the hemp plant. This special cannabinoid has been shown to have a variety of potential therapeutic benefits, including reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving sleep quality. 

Unlike its more famous cousin, THC, CBD is completely non-psychoactive, meaning it won't get you “high.” This makes it an appealing option for those looking for the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the mind-altering effects. 


Understanding How CBD Works In Dogs


All mammals - including dogs - have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which helps to regulate a wide variety of functions like pain, inflammation, heart rate, digestion, breathing, anxiety, and sleep. 

The endocannabinoid system is made up of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) that are located throughout the body and that bind to cannabinoids like CBD. 

When CBD is introduced into the body, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, which in turn helps boost the endocannabinoid system and promotes homeostasis (a state of balance) in the body. This is essential for the overall health and well-being of dogs. 


cbd effects

Are CBD Treats Good For Dogs? 


CBD treats are a great way to introduce the beneficial effects of CBD into your dog's life. CBD dog treats are made by infusing CBD oil into dog-friendly treats like biscuits, bones, or chews. 

CBD oil is known to have a variety of potential health benefits, including pain and inflammation relief, anxiety relief, seizure prevention, and more. Therefore, CBD treats may help your dog to feel happier, healthier, and more comfortable. 

However, it's important to note that not all CBD treats are created equal. Poor-quality CBD treats may not contain enough CBD to be effective, or they may be made with low-quality ingredients that could potentially harm your dog. 

To avoid such CBD treats, be sure to confirm the following from the manufacturer: 


  • The product is third-party lab tested for quality and safety 
  • The CBD oil used is full-spectrum and derived from organically grown hemp 
  • The treats are made with all-natural ingredients 

Is CBD Safe For Dogs?


The simple answer is yes! CBD is a safe and effective way to improve your dog's health and well-being. It is a non-toxic compound that is well-tolerated by dogs. 

Unlike THC, which can cause toxicity and even death in dogs, the worst side effects of CBD, when consumed in large doses, are typically limited to drowsiness, mild gastrointestinal upset like diarrhea, and dry mouth. 

However, the major concern with giving your dog large amounts of CBD is that it inhibits cytochrome P450 - an important enzyme responsible for metabolizing a wide variety of drugs. Therefore, talking to your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD is important, especially if they are taking any medications. 

How Can I Give CBD To My Dog?


Dogs, like humans, have different preferences when it comes to taking CBD. Some may prefer the taste of CBD oil, while others may prefer the convenience of CBD treats. However, the best way to determine your dog's preference is to start with a small amount and see how they respond. 

CBD Oil


CBD oil is a popular option for those looking to give their dogs accurate doses of CBD. They come in a well-labeled bottle with a dropper for easy administration. 

Simply dispense the desired amount of oil onto your dog's food or directly into their mouth, and they're good to go! BATCH Pet CBD Oil Tincture is a great option for those looking for high-quality CBD oil for their pups. 



CBD oil for dogs

CBD treats


CBD dog treats are another popular way to give CBD to dogs. They are convenient and easy to administer, as well as a delicious way to get your dog to take their CBD! 

CBD dog treats come in a labeled bag with serving-size recommendations. Simply give your dog the recommended amount of treats based on their weight and let them enjoy! 


cbd dog treats

Correct Dosage


The correct dosage of CBD for dogs will vary depending on a variety of factors, such as weight, age, and the health condition of your pup. Therefore, it's important to always follow the dosage instructions and start with a low dose, then increase gradually as needed to avoid giving your dog too much CBD at once. 

Also, if your pup is on other medications, it's important to talk to your veterinarian before giving them CBD, as it may inhibit the efficacy of their other medication. 

The recommended BATCH Pet CBD Oil Tincture dose is 3-5 mg CBD per every 10 lbs. 

Benefits Of CBD In Dogs 


As noted earlier, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to produce a variety of positive effects in the body. Some of the most well-known and researched benefits of CBD in dogs include: 

Has A Calming Effect On Nerves 


One important benefit of CBD is its ability to help calm nerves. This is especially helpful for dogs who experience anxiety or stress. 

CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which helps to regulate mood and emotion. By reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, CBD can help dogs feel more comfortable in stressful situations such as trips to the vet, car rides, or during fireworks displays. 

Although there is no controlled study on the use of CBD for anxiety in dogs, one study noted that sheltered dogs with aggressive behavior showed a decrease in aggression after being given CBD for 15 days.1 

This suggests that CBD may have a calming effect on dogs who experience anxiety. 

Helps With Weight Loss 


CBD may also help dogs who are trying to lose weight. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to boost metabolism and reduce food intake, promoting weight loss.2

One study found that rats who were given CBD regularly gained less weight compared to rats who were not given CBD, despite being fed the same amount of food.3

This suggests that CBD may have the ability to help dogs lose weight by increasing their metabolism and reducing appetite. 

Improves Your Dog Digestive System 


Gastrointestinal issues are common in dogs and can be both painful and frustrating. CBD may help improve your dog's digestive system by reducing intestinal inflammation and promoting a healthy appetite. Studies show that cannabinoids - like CBD - can help reduce intestinal inflammation.4

This suggests that CBD may help improve your dog's digestive system by reducing intestinal inflammation and promoting a healthy digestive system. 

Helps Your Dog Sleep Better 


If your dog has trouble sleeping, CBD may be able to help. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to promote sleep by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation. One study found that individuals who consumed CBD slept better (66.7% improvement) and showed less anxiety (a reduction of 79.2%).5

Also, another research found that CBD helped improve sleep times for rats who consumed 10 to 40 mg/kg of CBD.6  This suggests that CBD may help improve sleep quality for dogs who consume it. 

CBD For Dog Cancer 


CBD may also help dogs who are suffering from cancer. CBD has been shown to reduce tumor growth and metastasis in a variety of studies. 

One particular study found that CBD used with a standard chemotherapy drug helped reduce canine cancer cell proliferation in vitro more than the chemotherapy drug alone.7

Other Pain-Related Issues 


CBD may also help dogs with other pain-related issues, such as joint pain, arthritis, and muscle spasms. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and helps change how your dog's brain perceives pain. 

Several studies have found that CBD effectively reduces pain in dogs with arthritis.This suggests that CBD may help improve your dog's quality of life by reducing pain and inflammation. 

Can CBD Have Any Side Effects On Dogs? 


As noted earlier, CBD is generally considered to be safe for dogs. However, when consumed in high doses, CBD can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and gastrointestinal issues. It's important to start with a low dose of CBD and increase it gradually as needed to avoid these side effects. 

If you notice any side effects, stop giving your dog CBD and consult your veterinarian for further guidance. 


 cbd oil for dogs benefits

How Do CBD Dog Treats Work?


When your pooch consumes CBD dog treats, the CBD is absorbed into their body through the digestive system. Once absorbed, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to provide several health benefits. 


How Long Does It Take For Them To Work? 


The time it takes for CBD dog treats to work can vary depending on your pups' metabolism and whether their stomach is empty or full. 

However, it generally takes about 30 minutes to 60 minutes for CBD to take effect. That's because the dog treat has to go through the digestive system before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and interact with the endocannabinoid system. 



dog taking cbd oil

Are CBD Dog Treats Safe?


One concern that most pet parents have is whether or not CBD dog treats are safe. Luckily, the answer is yes! CBD dog treats are safe if you purchase them from a reputable source that can confirm that their products are free of contaminants and contain the amount of CBD they claim. 

Always ask the manufacturer to confirm the potency and purity of the product via a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an Independent Lab. Lab tests can confirm the CBD's potency and check for any contaminants such as heavy metals or pesticides. 

Also, to clear up some of the safety concerns that pet parents have, let's answer a few common questions: 


Can I Give My Dog CBD Treats Every Day? 


CBD treats can be given to your dog on a daily basis. In fact, many pet parents find that giving their dog CBD every day is the best way to keep their furry friend happy and healthy. 

Just be sure not to exceed the recommended dosage as per your pup's weight, and remember to start with a low dose to see how your dog tolerates it. 

Do CBD Dog Treats Contain THC? 


THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that gets you “high.” CBD dog treats do not contain THC, so they will not make your dog high. However, some CBD dog treats can have trace amounts of THC. If so, it should contain less than 0.3% THC - the federally legal limit for industrial hemp products - and should be clearly stated on the product label. 

Always ask the manufacturer for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to verify the THC levels in the product. 


Do They Make My Dog High? 


CBD dog treats do not make your dog high because they do not contain THC. As noted earlier, CBD dog treats are made by infusing CBD oil into dog-friendly treats like biscuits, bones, or chews. 

CBD is a natural compound that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to provide a variety of health benefits without any psychoactive effects. This means your dog will not get high from consuming CBD dog treats. 

Can My Dog Overdose On CBD Treats? 


No, your dog cannot overdose on CBD dog treats. In fact, it would be almost impossible for them to consume enough CBD to cause any fatal side effects. 

However, some of the side effects that have been reported in dogs after consuming large doses of CBD include drowsiness, dry mouth, and diarrhea. 

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they are not considered to be life-threatening. If your pup does experience any of these side effects, visit your veterinarian for guidance. 


How To Choose The Best CBD Treats For Your Dog 


When searching for the best CBD dog treats, there are a few things you should keep in mind: 


Ensure the product is sourced from industrial hemp grown in the United States


The United States has some of the strictest regulations when it comes to growing hemp. Agencies like the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ensure that farmers adhere to strict guidelines when growing hemp. This ensures that the final product is safe for consumption. 


Choose a product that has been tested by a third-party lab


As we mentioned earlier, always ask the manufacturer to provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab. This document will confirm the CBD's potency and check for any contaminants such as heavy metals or pesticides. 


Check for CO2 extraction


CO2 extraction is the gold standard for extracting CBD from hemp. This method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to extract CBD oil from the hemp plant. This ensures that the final product is pure and potent. 

Compared to solvents such as propane and butane, CO2 does not leave behind any harmful residues in the final product. 

Always check product labels to ensure the CBD oil has been extracted using CO2. 


Look for organic ingredients


If possible, choose a product that contains organic ingredients. This ensures that the treats are free from pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals. Check the product label to see if the manufacturer lists any organic ingredients. 

Avoid products that contain artificial flavors or preservatives


Whenever possible, choose a product that does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. These ingredients can harm your dog's health and cause adverse side effects. If the manufacturer uses artificial ingredients, ensure they are safe for consumption and clearly listed on the product label. 


Final Thoughts From BATCH 


It's no surprise that CBD dog treats are becoming increasingly popular. From pain relief and anxiety reduction to improved digestive health, CBD dog treats offer a variety of health benefits for our four-legged friends. And because CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects, it is safe for all dogs to consume. 

However, remember to do your research and choose a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer. With these tips in mind, you should be able to find the best CBD dog treats for your furry friend! 

Also, if you are looking for an alternative to CBD dog treats, consider BATCH Pet CBD Oil Tinctures. Our Pet CBD Oil Tinctures are crafted with the same quality and care we put into our products for humans. Made with organic ingredients and third-party lab tested, BATCH Pet CBD Oil Tinctures are a safe and effective way to provide your furry friend with the benefits of CBD. 

Contact us today to also learn more about our other CBD products!



Sources:


  1. Corsetti S, Borruso S, Malandrucco L, Spallucci V, Maragliano L, Perino R, D'Agostino P, Natoli E. Cannabis sativa L. may reduce aggressive behaviour towards humans in shelter dogs. Sci Rep. 2021 Feb 2;11(1):2773. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-82439-2. Erratum in: Sci Rep. 2021 Dec 9;11(1):24029. PMID: 33531559; PMCID: PMC7854708.
  2. Koch M. Cannabinoid Receptor Signaling in Central Regulation of Feeding Behavior: A Mini-Review. Front Neurosci. 2017 May 24;11:293. doi: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00293. PMID: 28596721; PMCID: PMC5442223.
  3. Ignatowska-Jankowska B, Jankowski MM, Swiergiel AH. Cannabidiol decreases body weight gain in rats: involvement of CB2 receptors. Neurosci Lett. 2011 Feb 18;490(1):82-4. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.12.031. Epub 2010 Dec 21. PMID: 21172406.
  4. Izzo AA, Camilleri M. Cannabinoids in intestinal inflammation and cancer. Pharmacol Res. 2009 Aug;60(2):117-25. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2009.03.008. Epub 2009 Mar 18. PMID: 19442536.
  5. Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series. Perm J. 2019;23:18-041. doi: 10.7812/TPP/18-041. PMID: 30624194; PMCID: PMC6326553.
  6. Chagas MHN, Crippa JAS, Zuardi AW, et al. Effects of acute systemic administration of cannabidiol on sleep-wake cycle in rats. Journal of Psychopharmacology. 2013;27(3):312-316. doi:10.1177/0269881112474524
  7. Henry JG, Shoemaker G, Prieto JM, Hannon MB, Wakshlag JJ. The effect of cannabidiol on canine neoplastic cell proliferation and mitogen-activated protein kinase activation during autophagy and apoptosis. Vet Comp Oncol. 2021 Jun;19(2):253-265. doi: 10.1111/vco.12669. Epub 2021 Jan 14. PMID: 33247539.
  8. Brioschi, F. A., Di Cesare, F., Gioeni, D., Rabbogliatti, V., Ferrari, F., D’Urso, E. S., Amari, M., & Ravasio, G. (2020, August 26). Oral transmucosal cannabidiol oil formulation as part of a multimodal analgesic regimen: Effects on pain relief and quality of life improvement in dogs affected by spontaneous osteoarthritis. MDPI. Retrieved November 9, 2022, from https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/10/9/1505 

November 09, 2022 — Griffin Lynch

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