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Before giving it as a supplement, the proper CBD dosage for dogs is critical. However, it's not that easy on your own, especially if you're a beginner pet parent.
Since there is a lack of study in CBD for dogs, there are a lot of factors that affect the CBD oil dosing for your dog.
Don't worry. We will give you insights into the correct CBD oil dosage for dogs. We will make it easy to understand and use a chart that shows the different dosages.
We'll also answer some of the most commonly asked questions like, ‘how often can a dog have CBD?' And, you'll learn about the different types of CBD products.
CBD Dosage for Dogs – Why it's Important to Know?
Like the other medications and supplements, too low a dose is less effective, while an overdose could bring harm. This is also in the case of using CBD products on your four-legged friend.
Knowing the correct dosage of CBD for your dogs is very important. It will determine the effectiveness and the life benefits for your pet.
Remember that CBD products have different concentrations. For each CBD oil product, the label shows the amount in the bottle, not the dose.
So how do you determine the correct dosage, especially if you're new to using CBD? Here are some tips on how to do that.
How Do I Know What CBD Dosage to Give My Dog?
The best way to know what CBD dosage you can give to your dog is to consult your vet. Many vets have done their research and can help determine the correct measurements for your specific pet.
Here are some factors that help determine the dosage of CBD for your canines.
Factors in Determining the CBD Dosage
Every company of CBD products has its guidelines. However, they have the same purpose – to create life-saving products for all four-legged buddies.
Pets like dogs have different problems and needs; therefore, no product fits all. So, here are the factors that your vet might consider before determining the dosage of CBD for your pet.
Your Dog's Weight
Weight of your dog matters when giving them CBD. The larger the dog is, the higher the dosage it needs, in contrast with those smaller in size.
When giving CBD to your puppies, make sure that it corresponds to their needs and precisely their size.
Severity of Condition
If you've decided to give CBD to your pups, you have a specific reason and purpose for this product.
For example, if they are healthy and have no severe health problems, they may take a lesser amount just to maintain their health and get the benefits CBD for dogs offers.
However, if your dog is suffering from any pain or seizures, they may require a higher dose than the other. It will help them to alleviate the pain and boost their immune system.
Activity Level
Physical activity always plays a more significant role in your pup's health. It makes them stronger, maintains a fit body, and faster metabolism.
When taking CBD, the faster metabolism, the quicker the medication would take effect and possibly the duration of its effectiveness. So, maybe a higher CBD dosage for an active dog when feeling pain.
In contrast, dogs with a slower metabolism need a lower dosage. Their body slowly takes in the compound, and it may last longer as well.
Lastly, Other Underlying Conditions of Your Pet
Underlying health conditions include liver and kidneys diseases. Taking CBD as the medication can be hindered by these severe issues.
Before giving CBD be sure to check your dog's health with the help of your vet.
Determine if there are factors that need to be considered to avoid additional health risks and interference with other medications taken.
How Much CBD Oil Should I Give my Dog
For beginners in using CBD oil for their dogs, it Is best to start with a small amount. If they are not in critical condition, 0.2 mg of CBD per pound may be enough for them.
If your pup suffers from significant pain like arthritis, they may need more dosage to deal with their pain. In a study of CBD efficacy on osteoarthritic dogs, 2 mg/kg dog's weight is required, or it can be 1 mg per pound (lbs).
So, if your canine weighs 20 pounds, then it needs 4 mg of CBD oil, which is suitable for starting point. However, you can increase or decrease it depending on your pet's condition, reaction, and the factors you learned about before.
To guide you for the correct dosage, consider the given chart below.
CBD for Dogs Dosing Chart
The start of dosing is for dogs who have healthy bodies. The medium amount is for those who experience moderate pain or illness. In contrast, the last one is for those who suffer from severe pain or health issues.
This chart is not fixed and should be used as a guideline. It can be adjusted depending on your dog's condition, activity level, and reaction. The given doses are applicable only for CBD oil users, not for other CBD products.
Types of CBD for Dogs
There are three primary forms of CBD. The full-spectrum CBD, Broad spectrum, and the Isolate.
1. Full-spectrum CBD
It is a type of CBD with all the beneficial compounds from a cannabis plant. This compound includes Cannabidiol itself, Terpenes, and Flavonoids.
Full-spectrum also has THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), which affects the dog. It should only have .3% or less, which does not harm your pet.
2. Broad spectrum
This form contains only a range of cannabis compounds. It also has flavonoids and terpenes but no THC, so it's safe for all dogs.
3. Isolate
Unlike whole and broad-spectrum, Isolate has contained only cannabidiol compound. No other compounds were added.
CBD products sold in markets have different options. The most common are oils, tinctures, edible or chewable, pills, and topical creams.
Kinds of CBD Products for Dogs
CBD Oil and Tincture
It is the most common CBD product. This type makes the dosage easy because you can control the amount. With the use of a dropper, the dosing can be more accurate. It can help prevent overdosing.
Edible or Chewable
This kind can also help determine dosage easier because they've done it for you. It can be taken together with your dog's food or as a treat. It is also soft and perfect for your puppies.
Pills like Capsules
CBD capsules have an oil base inside them. Because of its concentration and being measured out for you, it's easy to ingest. It may be the best fit for big dogs. The challenge may be in administrating the pill.
Topical Creams
For external pain like inflamed skin and injuries, topical creams would be best. It is beneficial for active dogs.
The cream is applied directly to the affected area, and there is minimal coaxing needed to administer to your pet.
Can I Give My Dog CBD with THC?
THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the number one proactive component of cannabis that will affect your dog's psychological behavior. Only 0.3% of THC is allowed in CBD for dogs.
Some CBD products for dogs contain THC. However, before buying, you need to ensure if the CBD oil products have it and that it falls at or below 0.3%.
Frequently Asked Questions Aboud CBD Dosage
How Often can you Give CBD oil to your Dogs?
For consistency, you can give CBD to your dog twice daily, but of course, with a proper CBD oil dosage. If needed, you can give them every eight to twelve hours.
When the CBD is ingested, its effect mostly lasts two hours. Observe your dog's behavior to determine if they need more or less. Remember to consider the factors that we talked about: Weight, Condition, Activity Level, and other underlying conditions.
For example, dogs that suffer from arthritis and seizures can gain many benefits from twice-a-day doses of CBD with an interval of 8 to 12 hours.
Should I Give my dog CBD oil every day?
Giving CBD oil to dogs every day is an entirely safe routine. However, the dosage depends on why you're giving it to them.
Based on the dosage mentioned above, 2 mg is enough if your pup is healthy and active. You can increase it if they are in pain and decrease it if they regain their strength after healing.
A regular administering CBD in your dogs will help their endocannabinoid system regulate. And it gives a holistic remedy for your dog's pain.
How Long Does it Take for CBD to Kick In?
Knowing how fast CBD starts working on our dogs depends on how it is administered to your dog.
For instance, if you're using CBD oils or tinctures, if it's given directly to the mouth or gums, it will work after about 20-60 minutes.
On the other hand, using CBD treats tends to be slower as it'll usually kick in after 45-90 minutes.
Can my dog Overdose in CBD?
Overdosing is different from toxicity. Toxicity comes from unsafe substances, and overdosing comes from safe substances that you gave too much.
You can overdose on CBD, but it will not be fatal. The symptoms are lack of energy, vomiting, and excessive drooling.
Toxicity happens when substances in the CBD are not safe for your dogs, such as THC or chocolate. Remember to check the CBD product for any sense that it can be toxic to dogs.
Proper CBD Dosage for Dogs Final Thoughts
There are many ways to determine the correct CBD dosage for dogs. Aside from consulting your vet, this article shared several things to consider and a chart to use as a guide.
You can easily calculate the CBD dosing that your dog needs using the chart. However, that calculation can change when you consider your dog's condition, age, and activity level.
If you wonder how often can a dog have CBD, the answer depends. But, to be effective, we suggest you give it to them daily.
Since the FDA still doesn't regulate CBD for dogs, there are still a lot of uncertainties to it. That's why it is essential to do your research.
We can't say that what we have discussed with you is accurate. But, it's always better to consult first on your veterinarian if you want to be sure before making a decision.
