It’s only natural that we want to share everything we have with our dogs—including the good stuff we eat and drink. Among the potential sharables are CBD oil products, which are becoming increasingly popular for their purported health benefits.
But is CBD oil for dogs different than for humans, and can we give both to our pups? Let’s find out.
Is CBD Oil for Dogs Different Than for Humans
In short—there isn’t a whole lot of difference between pet CBD and human CBD, with the main distinctions being the potency and dosage. Body size is an essential thing to factor in when dosing CBD oil—and much more if you want to offer human CBD oil to pups.
CBD oils for human consumption usually have higher levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, while dog products contain little to no THC. This is important because THC can be toxic for dogs, even in small doses.
Other hidden ingredients, such as Xylitol, essential oils, and additives, can also be harmful to dogs due to their size and lack of ability to metabolize certain compounds.
For these reasons, it’s always best to check the ingredients label before giving dogs CBD oil—however, we strongly suggest you buy dog-friendly CBD options, as it might be harder to get the human CBD dosage correctly for dogs.
Can I Give My Dog Human CBD Oil
The product, in itself, is considered to be safe for dogs. For the most part, CBD oils for dogs and humans have the same ingredients.
The biggest strength of CBD oil for dogs and humans lies in how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—essentially acting as a regulator for the body. The ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis (balance) by controlling pain, inflammation, anxiety, and appetite stimulation.
CBD oil is believed to work with the ECS by binding to cannabinoid receptors and helping regulate these functions. And since dogs have endocannabinoid systems, too, these products could offer the same benefits for our furry friends.
What Effects Do Dogs Have When Given Human CBD Oil
While the debate on pet CBD vs. human CBD may be ongoing, one thing is for sure—this particular product acts as multi-target therapy for anyone, two- or four-legged. It simultaneously interacts with different systems in the body, which is what makes it so effective for a variety of issues.
For dogs, studies show that CBD oil can boost the ECS, helping regulate discomfort, inflammation, anxiety, and more. They can serve as allergy relievers, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories—all in one.
It can also improve cognitive function and positively affect the nervous system, increasing our furry companions’ overall quality of life. By working with the ECS, CBD oil can provide natural relief for many common canine health issues—without the negative side effects of numerous traditional medications.
In addition, the Phytocannabinoid-Rich (PCR) hemp oil used in many CBD products for dogs also contains a variety of other beneficial compounds like terpenes, flavonoids, and omega-3 and fatty acids. These extra ingredients can further support your pup’s health and strengthen its immune system by improving its coat and skin, reducing inflammation, and keeping its joints healthy.
And if insomnia and sleep cycle regulation are your primary concerns, this cannabis derivative can help regulate stress levels and promote relaxation. The cannabinoid receptors it binds to can also help induce sleep and fight fatigue, making it a perfect solution for pups who have trouble winding down at night.
Giving your dog CBD oil is unlikely to do any harm—and may even do some good. As long as you carefully examine the ingredients list, provide the correct dosage and start with a low concentration, your dog should be able to enjoy the benefits of this natural remedy.
How Much CBD Oil Should You Give to Your Dog
The human body can process CBD oil more effectively than our canine companions. If we can take about 20 mg per day, our dogs need a much smaller dose due to the difference in size and weight.
The math is simple—approximately 1 mg a day per 0.5 kg (1 lb) of body weight. So, a 10 kg (22 lb) pooch would need about 5 mg of CBD oil per day, whereas a 5 kg (11 lb) dog would only require 2.5 mg.
It’s always best to start with a low concentration and gradually increase the dosage until you find the perfect amount for your pup. This will help them adjust to the effects of the organic oils and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can humans use pet CBD oil?
Yes, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t use dog CBD oil—but it’s important to remember that the dosages are different. The human variety is typically much more concentrated, so you need to use larger amounts to get the same effect.
Is CBD oil safe for puppies?
Absolutely—moderate doses of CBD oil are perfectly safe for puppies. In fact, it can even help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with teething or separation anxiety.
Can dogs have THC gummies for humans?
Giving your dog THC gummies is not a good idea, as this substance can be toxic to them. THC can also cause your dog to feel anxious and disoriented, so avoiding products containing this compound completely is for the best.
Key Takeaways
CBD oil for dogs is different than for humans—but only in concentration.
Of course, it’s always best to speak to your veterinarian before giving your dog any medication—even if it’s a natural remedy like CBD oil. They’ll be able to advise you on the best dosage and concentration for your dog and can answer any other questions you may have.
