Can you use CBD oil for leash reactive dogs? I had the same question, so I did the research and came up with some interesting information I’d like to share with all of you who struggle with reactivity.
Does CBD Help Reactive Dogs?
Yes, CBD can be beneficial for reactive dogs. Reactive dogs are those that exhibit excessive fear, anxiety, or aggression in response to certain stimuli or situations. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp plants that has been found to have calming and anti-anxiety effects in both humans and animals.
When given to reactive dogs, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors in the body that helps regulate various physiological processes, including mood and stress responses. By interacting with these receptors, CBD can help promote a sense of relaxation and reduce anxiety in dogs.
CBD is believed to have anxiolytic properties, meaning it may help alleviate anxiety symptoms in dogs, including those associated with reactivity. It can help take the edge off their fear or aggression, allowing them to better cope with triggering situations. However, it’s important to note that CBD should not be seen as a cure-all solution, and its effectiveness may vary from dog to dog.
If you have a reactive dog and are considering using CBD, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian experienced in cannabinoid therapy for pets. They can provide guidance on appropriate dosage, potential interactions with other medications, and help you choose a high-quality CBD product specifically formulated for dogs.
Remember, while CBD may offer benefits for reactive dogs, it should always be used as part of a comprehensive behavior modification plan. This plan may include positive reinforcement training, desensitization and counterconditioning techniques, and other strategies tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
How CBD Oil Helps Leash Reactive Dogs
CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant (marijuana plant) or hemp plant and has many healing properties. In the 1980s, researchers discovered the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body while studying how the oil affects it. ECS is what processes cannabinoids, which are produced by the body naturally.
When people use CBD oil or give it to their dogs, it helps supplement any deficits in the production of cannabinoids.
Why do we need to have adequate cannabinoids in the body?
Cannabinoids help the ECS function effectively. In turn, the ECS ensures the body’s major organs and systems function effectively:
- Brain
- Organs
- Nervous System
- Immune System
If you’re wondering what this has to do with your pet, keep reading.
Anxiety – The Root of Reactive Dog Behavior
Many dogs who are leash reactive suffer from anxiety. Anxiety is exhibited in many ways:
Separation Anxiety
Many pet owners know this situation all too well. They leave and their poor pup becomes unruly. This behavior can lead to aggression and damaged personal items. It’s reactive behavior – similar to leash reactivity.
Fearful Dogs
Dogs who are easily scared can act out in several ways. Some fearful dogs will hide in a corner, crate, or under the bed. Other fearful dogs may be regarded as aggressive dogs because they react by biting or barking wildly. Fearful dogs simply have anxiety.
Aggressive Dogs
Aggressive dogs may not seem afraid or sad in the cases of separation anxiety or fearfulness, but they suddenly act out in an aggressive way. Dog aggression is usually due to some underlying feeling – anxiety, fear, and even medical issues. All of which can be treated with CBD.
We discuss more dog leash reactivity in this article: Reactive Dog Vest
How Reactivity Relates to Anxiety
Dogs who are reactive are at the fundamental level – anxious. Dog aggression is due to feeling nervous about the environment or what may happen next. The good news is that since reactive dogs are simply anxious, CBD can help calm them down to stop them from being reactive.
How CBD OIl Helps Leash Reactive Dogs
Recent studies have shown that CBD can reduce anxiety by affecting serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin regulates mood and behavior, which are related to anxiety.
Studies show that when serotonin levels are regulated, humans (the same goes for dogs) have less anxiety. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications regulate serotonin, but so can CBD. The benefit of CBD over prescription medication for anxiety is that it has little to no side effects, as it’s a natural substance in the body.
Since CBD decreases anxiety, it can be effective in reducing leash reactivity, especially in combination with training.
How to Use CBD for Reactive Dogs
The easiest way to use CBD oil for leash-reactive dogs is by mouth. CBD oil comes in various strengths. Pet owners should follow the instruction on the bottle and drop the correct number of drops into the mouth of their dog. Dog owners can also put CBD oil in peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or golden paste for dogs.
Many dog owners give their pups CBD treats. CBD dog treats are easy because they come in a wide range of flavors, such as beef and chicken. Most pups have no idea they are really getting a supplement.
Learn more tips on how to give your dog CBD or hemp oil by reading: How to Give Hemp Oil to Dogs
When to Give CBD for Aggressive Behavior
CBD takes about an hour to start working. If you’re planning to take your pup on a walk in an hour or two, give him/her a dose at that time. Some dog owners use CBD daily, which is safe to do. Giving a dog CBD at the same time every day can support a healthy body and better behavior.
If you want your reactive dog to go to daycare, you may want to try CBD oil to help your dog cope with the environment. The CBD oil can be administered in the morning and the effects can last the entire day.
How Long CBD Lasts in Dogs
CBD lasts about four to eight hours depending on the following factors:
- Time of Last Dose
- Amount of the Last Dose
- Activity Level
- Severity of Symptoms
- Dog Size
- Digestion Time
For more information on this, please read: How Long Does CBD Last for Dogs
Best CBD for Reactive Dogs
You have two choices for Dog CBD:
- CBD Oil
- CBD Dog Treats
KING KALM™ for Dog CBD Oil
KING KALM is a reputable dog CBD provider. They offer blends of Broad Spectrum CBD with hemp oil and krill oil. Dosages come in:
- 75 mg
- 150 mg
- 300 mg
- 600 mg
The 600 mg blends have copaiba and DHA along with the krill oil that is in the others. It is the most powerful formula in the Kanine Gold Series.
Diamond CBD for CBD Dog Treats
Diamond CBD offers a full-spectrum CBD product for dogs. Full-spectrum CBD has a small amount of THC in it, which does not adversely affect your pet. All products are made in the USA and are nutrient-rich, organic and hemp plant-derived.
The brand’s products are called Medipets and come in the following flavors:
- Beef
- Chicken Fat
- Cheese Bits
Dosages range from 100 mg to 600 mg to make them perfect for all-size dogs.
HolistaPet CBD Dog Treats
HolistaPet is a well-known pet brand for CBD products. Their dog treats are made from hemp seed powder and 100% natural ingredients.
Each bag contains 30 treats with each one having 10 mg of CBD. The best thing about that is that dosing is easy. One treat can even be broken in half for 5 mg for toy dogs or to provide dosages of 155, if needed.
How to Choose the Best CBD for Reactive Dogs
CBD not only helps humans live healthier life, but it also helps dogs. In addition to helping with anxiety that results in dog aggression and leash reactivity, it can help with chronic joint pain and many other medical issues. Please contact your veterinarian before giving your pup anything new. Your veterinarian can also advise on proper dosing for your pet’s needs.
At Dog Ownership Guide, we believe in Happy Dogs ~ Happy Owners. For that reason, consider giving your dog CBD oil for your leash reactive dog. We hope it will help you and your pup have a happier and healthier life together.
Learn More: CBD for Aggressive Dogs
