CBD for Dogs: What Type of Product to Use
In this post, we review the different types of hemp CBD products available for dogs, when to use them, and how to use them.
If you’re looking to try CBD for your dog, it can be challenging to decide which type of CBD product will work best. You’re probably wondering about what the difference is between dog CBD oil and human CBD oil? Or which CBD products are available for dogs?
To help answer these questions and help you make the right choices for you and your dog, we’ve broken down the most common hemp CBD products for dogs currently available on the market, how to use them and what to use them for.
Hemp CBD for Dogs
CBD Oils & Tinctures
What It Is
CBD oils contain either a 100% THC-free, broad-spectrum CBD extract or a CBD isolate. The extract is blended with a carrier medium such as hemp seed oil, vegetable glycerin, or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil.
CBD oils and tinctures allow for precise dosing, with a quicker time-of-onset than edibles or topicals. CBD oils and tinctures are also much more potent compared to other CBD products. For this reason, they are used as the foundation for some of the other products made with hemp CBD for dogs.
What to Use It For
Think of CBD oil as being similar and acting like an oil-based health supplement. However, because CBD oils and tinctures are much more potent compared to other CBD products, they are also the best option for supporting specific health conditions. At the same time, these types of hemp CBD products for dogs allow you more control over how the amount of CBD your dog ingests.
How to Use It
To get the best results, fastest onset time and maximum absorption, CBD oils should be dropped directly into your dog’s mouth. But as every dog parent knows, this is sometimes easier said than done.
If your fur baby simply refuses to take their CBD oil by mouth, you can add a few drops to their food. If this is the option you choose, it is important to bear in mind that broad-spectrum CBD oils can be quite pungent. It’s quite possible that your dog might not like the taste of it on their food. Therefore, opt for a CBD oil product designed and formulated specifically to be added to dog food.
CBD Treats (aka Edibles)
What It Is
You can make dog edibles by mixing a CBD oil or tincture with dog treat ingredients to create a dog-approved snack. However, unlike CBD oils, CBD treats take longer to absorb because it has to go through the digestive process first. This means the onset time is longer while the levels of potency vary.
What to Use It For
As mentioned, every dog owner has experienced how difficult it can sometimes be to give any type of supplement or medicine to your cat or dog. Sometimes they simply refuse to open their mouths and then run away. You may even find yourself chasing your dog around the house.
This is where CBD treats come in handy. Hemp CBD dogs treats provide your dog with all the benefits of a CBD oil, but in the form of an easy to swallow and enjoyable snack.
Okoa Pet “Hush, Puppy” Calming Soft Chews are an all-natural supplement combining broad-spectrum hemp with naturally occurring CBD and other calming ingredients. Each “Hush, Puppy” Calming Soft Chew features the delicious, natural peanut butter flavor that dogs love.
How to Use It
You give CBD treats by mouth in the same way you would any other type of snack. Because CBD treats look and smell delicious, your dog is bound to enjoy them. This might make it tempting to give them more than what is recommended. However, it is vital to stick to the serving size guidelines as overconsumption is the biggest for dogs. But ultimately, hemp CBD treats are an excellent choice if consumed responsibly.
CBD Topicals
What It Is
CBD topicals are creams, lotions, and balms infused with CBD oils or extracts. Many topicals are also blended with other beneficial ingredients. Some examples include herbal extracts, cooling menthol, or warming agents. These ingredients can help speed up the healing process and provide additional healing effects.
As with edibles, it is essential to remember that the potency of CBD topicals is lower than that of a CBD oil or extract. This is because transdermal (through the skin) delivery does not allow CBD to reach the bloodstream.
What to Use It For
CBD topicals are traditionally used to provide localized pain relief. They offer an immediate soothing sensation for dogs suffering from body aches and pains as well as inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. This is especially true for geriatric dogs with joint pain and weak bones.
Still, topical CBD products also help relieve things like skin allergies, eczema, and other types of skin issues due to CBD’s supportive calming effects.
How to Use It
CBD creams, lotions, and balms are meant only for external use and are applied directly to the skin. From there, the CBD absorbs into the surrounding tissues and helps relieve a range of symptoms. Some of these symptoms include achy joints, muscle pain, inflammation, and even allergic skin reactions. CBD topicals are a great option for dogs who need localized or consistent relief from throughout the day.
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