Does CBD help alleviate anxiety in dogs?

Anxiety in dogs: Can CBD help?

Anxiety isn't just a human thing – dogs sometimes carry more tension than their paws can handle. 🐾 But don't worry! Anxiety can be managed, and we'll show you how! We've got a whole pack of useful tips for you. 🐕🐕🐕

Animal compass: How to recognise anxiety in dogs?

Acute anxiety in dogs comes on suddenly. Your furry friend may seem restless, shake, start following your every move, lick themselves excessively, drool or yawn.

This is often accompanied by rapid breathing, barking and whining for no apparent reason, or even attempts to escape. This condition is usually intense but usually lasts only a short time.

However, if similar symptoms appear regularly and over a long period of time, it may be chronic anxiety. In such cases, you may notice that your pet destroys things in the home, bites its paws, or loses its appetite. 🦴

Chronic anxiety can last for weeks, months, and sometimes even years if left untreated.

 

Illustrated image of a dog yawning and drooling – typical behaviour associated with anxiety, stress and restlessness

In solitary confinement: What is separation anxiety?

One of the most common forms of anxiety in dogs is separation anxiety, a condition in which your furry friend has a hard time being left home alone.

Typical signs that your dog 🐶 is unable to cope with being alone include, for example:

  • destroying and tearing things
  • barking or whining continuously, even long after you have left
  • relieving themselves inside the house

This behaviour is not a sign of defiance, but a cry for help. The good news is that there are many ways to make separation easier for our animal friends.

Signal signs: What triggers anxiety in dogs?

Every dog is unique, but some situations can unsettle even the most laid-back of dogs. That's why it's important to know the triggers that cause anxiety in our furry friends:

The most common are:

  • Changes in the home or neighbourhood

Moving house 🏡, a new person in the family, noisy renovations or even just a change in walking times – all of these can disrupt a dog's sense of security and cause stress.

  • 🌩️ Loud and unexpected noises

Dogs' hearing is much more acute than ours – thunderstorms, fireworks or loud celebrations are a nightmare for our pets.

  • Lack of contact or exercise

Dogs are not loners like wolves. 🐺 When they lack company or don't get to stretch their legs, frustration sets in – and anxiety has a field day.

  • Bad experiences in the past

Staying in a shelter, abuse or severe trauma can leave deep scars on a dog's soul. 💔

  • Genetic predisposition

Some breeds 🐩 (or specific dogs) have extra sensitive sensors from birth.

 

Illustrated image of a dog suffering from anxiety, dog waiting at home for its owner

Rescue centre: How to help a dog with anxiety?

Long-term stress puts more strain on a dog's body than many people realise.

It can manifest itself, for example, as:

  • digestive problems
  • heart rhythm disorders
  • general weakening of the immune system

✅ Early treatment of anxiety is therefore key to preventing more serious problems and improving the quality of life of your four-legged friend.

Treatment of separation anxiety in dogs is often a long-term process, usually involving a combination of several approaches.

Training, environmental adjustments and natural or veterinary products can help calm your furry friend and restore stability to their world.

⚠️ If the symptoms are intense or recur frequently, it is advisable to consult a dog trainer or veterinarian. An expert will help you choose the most appropriate course of action, whether it be changes in routine or the selection of dietary supplements.

Note from the caregiver 👉 If the situation requires it, your veterinarian may also recommend medication for anxiety in dogs.

CBD as the key to your pet's well-being

What can you give your canine companion to calm them down when they're feeling restless? 🐕‍🦺

In addition to traditional veterinary medicines, there are also herbal preparations such as lavender, lemon balm, valerian and chamomile.

🌿 CBD (cannabidiol) is also becoming increasingly popular. It is a natural substance derived from hemp that is non-psychoactive and therefore does not ‘get your dog high’.

It works through the endocannabinoid system, which maintains balance in mood, sleep, immunity and pain perception in animals (and humans).

CBD has been shown to help with:

  • stress and anxiety management
  • pain (e.g. joint problems)
  • sleep disorders and regeneration

Caregiver tip 👉 If you know that a stressful moment is approaching, such as a storm, a visit to the vet or a long separation, administer CBD in advance. CBD works best when given before your furry friend panics.

📚 What does research say?

Approximately half of pet owners surveyed report that CBD has helped their dog manage anxiety. According to a study by Cornell University in New York, 83% of dogs experienced a reduction in stress behaviour after being given CBD.

Similar results were reported in a recent study by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, where researchers monitored how dogs reacted to separation from their owners or travelling by car.

For some indicators (heart rate, barking or level of restlessness), there were noticeable differences compared to the placebo group after a single dose of CBD. Research is ongoing and the effects are still being investigated, but the results so far are promising. 💚

Delicatessen stand: CBD oils for dogs

In our pavilion, you will find CBD for dogs in various forms – from CBD oils to tasty pastilles 💊 and treats to special drops. Treat your pet to health, comfort and pampering!

One of the most popular options is CBD oil for dogs – a natural hemp extract mixed with a carrier oil (usually salmon, flaxseed or olive).

 

Cheerful illustrated dog sitting at a wooden CannabiZoo stand with products on display – CBD oils, capsules and dietary supplements for dogs

According to research by Limsuwan et al., CBD oils are better absorbed than other forms in dogs and begin to take effect within three hours of administration.

🧴There are three types of CBD oils on the market:

  • Full spectrum – the most effective, containing all the active ingredients of hemp.
  • Broad spectrum – THC-free, but with other cannabinoids (CBN, CBG).
  • CBD isolate – pure CBD without other cannabinoids and terpenes.

How to choose the best CBD oil for your dog?

Every dog is different – some prefer full-spectrum oil, others feel better with pure isolate. You can find concentrations ranging from 3% to 10%, but start slowly and see how your dog reacts.

Pets love these products, for example:

Choose products without artificial additives, made from high-quality hemp. Those that are registered as veterinary products are ideal – they guarantee clear composition and safety.

Discuss the dosage with your vet. They know your dog's health and can advise you on what to choose and how to adjust the dose according to your dog's weight, age and any other medications they are taking.

Conclusion

CBD oil for anxiety in dogs is an effective and safe natural alternative that can significantly improve your pet's quality of life. Whether it's separation anxiety, environmental stress or chronic stress, CBD can be the key to greater well-being and calm – for both your furry friend and you. 🐶

FAQ

1. 💧 How to dose CBD oil for dogs?

The amount of CBD a dog needs depends on its size, health and the strength of the oil used. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the label or packaging and your vet's instructions. Always start with a small dose and increase it gradually if necessary.

2. How to administer CBD oil to dogs?

You can administer CBD oil directly into your dog's mouth if they will allow it. Otherwise, mix it into their food or a favourite treat. 🥣 But be careful not to put the dropper directly into their mouth to avoid contaminating the oil.

3. Are CBD oils safe to use in combination with other medications?

CBD may affect the metabolism of some medications. If your dog is taking other veterinary products, always consult your vet before using CBD.

4. How long can dogs use CBD oil?

CBD can be administered long-term if your dog responds well. Long-term use is common for chronic anxiety or pain, for example. However, monitor the effects and consult a professional regularly about the dosage.

5. Does CBD have any side effects in dogs?

Side effects of CBD are rare in dogs, but sometimes drowsiness or a slight decrease in appetite may occur, especially at higher doses. Simply adjust the dosage.

6. Is CBD oil suitable for older dogs?

Yes, CBD oil can also be suitable for senior dogs – it often helps with anxiety, joint pain and sleep quality.

 

Sources:

 

Author: Pavla Skřivánková

 

 

Photo: AI

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