Five Ways CBD Dog Treats Can Benefit Your Canine

The medical and health benefits of cannabis are widely known and increasingly recognized worldwide, helping people live happier and healthier lives. The recognized benefits of the plant’s two main cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), continue to evolve as our knowledge of these compounds continue to grow through research.

What some people may not consider is that the benefits of cannabinoids like CBD not only have the potential to improve the quality of life of humans, but of our canine companions as well.

Let’s face it, our dogs are more than just pets, they’re a part of our family, so their wellbeing is very important to us. The companionship and unconditional love dogs provide every day earns them a special place in our hearts. The bond we have with “man’s best friend” is a very real and valued thing.

American Spending Statistics for Dogs

According to the 2022-2023 national pet owners survey by the American Pet Product Manufacturers Association (APPMA), dogs make up 48% of the pets in American households, and Americans will spend nearly $70 billion on their pets in 2024—and that number has been rising yearly for decades. Statistics from the National Retail Federation in 2023 indicate that pet owners spent $751 million on their pets on Valentine’s Day alone—most of those pets being dogs.

Pet industry statistics also indicate that pet owners do not spend less on their dog during times of financial strain, and some of them will forego spending on luxuries for themselves before denying their dogs special life-enhancing treats. There’s no denying it—Americans will dig deep when it comes to their dogs. It seems only natural that they would want their pets to enjoy the same quality of life from cannabinoid products as they do.

Cannabidiol, derived from Cannabis sativa (marijuana and hemp) enjoys a more widespread acceptance and legality compared to the mind-enhancing effects of cannabis’ other main cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol. For this reason, mainstream distribution in products made for humans, and now dogs, makes it relatively easy to obtain—much easier than products containing THC.

In humans, CBD can alter mood and provide an overall feeling of wellbeing and stress relief. Dogs respond to CBD in a similar manner. Let’s examine some of the ways adding CBD to your dog’s life may have a positive influence.

Phobias, Stress, and Anxiety

Dogs experience special phobias and behavioral problems like humans, and their owners spend large amounts of money on dog trainers and behaviorists to help them work through these problems.

Tapping into the benefits of CBD could be a huge asset to accomplishing desired results with your dog when it comes to behavior issues like destructive tendencies from separation anxiety—a common problem with many household dogs. Dozens of studies indicate that CBD relieves stress and anxiety, even at low doses, with no side effects.

Inflammation and Pain Relief

Several studies also indicate that CBD provides relief for pain and inflammation—another common canine ailment, especially in elderly dogs with stiff joints.

The applications it can have for specific chronic conditions like osteoarthritis can be significant in providing relief for these dogs. CBD relief from inflammation and associated pain can be significant, and a strong effect can be observed. The brain has a high number of CB1 and CB2 receptors from which pain may be controlled and managed.

Cancer Relief

Cancer is a common life-threatening disease for dogs as well as humans. In fact, cancer is the No. 1 killer of dogs over the age of 2, and 50% of dogs age 10 and older are likely to get cancer. Cancer research and cancer expert opinions indicates that cannabinoids like CBD have the potential to provide significant relief for cancer patients for pain associated with the disease as well as side effects of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy.

The potential applications for CBD in oncology is huge. In addition to pain relief, there is evidence that cannabinoids can prevent cell division of cancer cells and stop their proliferation, ultimately killing these cells.

The Aging Process

Unfortunately, dogs do not live nearly as long as humans, so we often struggle to cope with seeing our cherished friends suffer from the effects of old age. Since no one has yet found the fountain of youth, we must rely on other means to prolong life. This is an area where CBD can help.

There is evidence and compelling reasons why CBD can aid dogs as well as humans with the aging process. Aging occurs due to inflammatory and oxidative mechanisms. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of CBD could help prolong your dog’s life.

Behavioral Disorders

As well as the soothing and calming aspect of CBD for dogs with separation anxiety, there are other potential uses for CBD when it comes to canine behavioral disorders.

Dog owners spend tremendous amounts of money for the services of canine behaviorists to help solve negative aspects of how their dogs behave. There is evidence that CBD can help treat human behavioral issues, especially with children.

Not only can it be effective for treating psychological issues like anxiety, insomnia, and post traumatic stress syndrome, but CBD also has applications for attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD).

For dog behavior, the therapeutic benefits may be huge as a part of overall behavior modification training. Negative behaviors like excessive barking and fear biting—in addition to previously mentioned separation anxiety—are just a few areas where CBD may help.

Canine Reactions to CBD Treats

Anxiety Relief: CBD is well-known for its relaxing properties, which can aid in lowering dogs' anxiety, particularly during stressful events like thunderstorms or separation.

Discomfort Management: It could help with chronic discomfort, especially in elderly dogs with joint problems like arthritis.

Control of Seizures: Although additional research is required, some data points to CBD's potential to help control seizures in dogs.

General Health and Wellness: CBD is frequently utilized to support overall health and wellbeing, which may enhance hunger and vigor.

Learn to Make Your Own CBD Dog Treats

Save money on treating your pets by learning to make your own cannabis treats!