We all want our dogs to live their happiest and healthiest lives. These loyal, tail-wagging companions bring joy, laughter, and plenty of fur into our homes. It’s only natural to want to give back to them in every way we can, helping them feel their best every single day.
Many pet owners have discovered that adding CBD to their dog’s daily routine has made a noticeable difference. Reports of improvements in behavior, stress management, and overall wellness have made CBD a popular addition to pet care routines. But is CBD truly as beneficial as it seems?
Study Explores the Effects of CBD on Car Ride Stress in Dogs
While we might find car rides enjoyable with our favorite music playing and a drink in hand, dogs can experience these trips quite differently. Some dogs, even those who get excited about visiting their favorite places, often feel anxious or stressed during car rides.
In a study published in early 2024 by the Journal of Animal Science, researchers examined how daily CBD supplementation affected dogs experiencing car ride-related stress. The study involved 20 dogs over a six-month period, with each dog receiving a daily CBD dose based on its body weight. The CBD was administered orally to ensure maximum absorption and effectiveness.
The researchers concluded that car rides reliably triggered stress in the dogs participating in the study. However, dogs receiving daily CBD showed measurable signs of reduced stress during these rides. The study noted that daily doses of 4 mg/kg of CBD produced a mild calming effect, suggesting that consistent CBD use may help dogs manage travel anxiety more comfortably.
Randomized Study Finds Evidence of Anti-Inflammatory Benefits for Dogs with OA
Seeing our beloved pets go through the challenges of aging can be heartbreaking. No pet owner wants to watch their animal suffer from joint pain, especially when it comes to conditions like osteoarthritis. Certain breeds, including German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Boxers, tend to be more susceptible to this painful condition than others.
Research released in 2020 provided promising results that point to CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory benefits in addressing the discomfort caused by canine osteoarthritis. During a four-week trial, the study noted that CBD significantly reduced pain levels and improved mobility in dogs already diagnosed with osteoarthritis, with results improving based on the dosage given.
The Bottom Line
The research discussed above highlights the promising potential of CBD for pets. While these findings are encouraging, pet owners should take the time to carefully choose the right CBD product for their dog. Not every product on the market is crafted with the same attention to quality or safety, which makes understanding what to look for even more important.
Choosing dog-friendly CBD means making sure the product comes from a trusted brand committed to pet wellness. Pet owners should check for clear ingredient labeling to confirm the product uses safe, dog-appropriate ingredients. Reliable companies will also provide accessible contact information so customers can easily reach out with any questions or concerns. One of the most important things to look for is a Certificate of Analysis, often called a COA, which confirms both the quality and the legal compliance of the product. Trustworthy brands go beyond these basics by offering educational resources and making it easier for pet parents to make informed choices. Whether you’re shopping for a topical, an edible, or a tincture, transparency and quality should be top priorities.
While research is still developing, current studies suggest CBD may offer a variety of benefits for dogs. Though the science is in the early stages, it provides valuable information that can help guide pet owners toward responsible decisions. In the end, all of us want to give our pets the best care possible. CBD could be the option you have been looking for to support your dog’s wellness journey.