If you’re intrigued by the potential therapeutic benefits CBD can offer your dog, you should know there are two main options available—edible CBD and CBD oil. Both of these options offer their own unique advantages, but there are certain times when one may be the better choice for your dog than others. Which one should you pick?
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created this CBD oil vs. edibles guide detailing the differences between the two and the benefits each of them offers. Take a look before you make a purchase, and you’ll no doubt find the perfect product for you and your furry friend.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD as it’s more commonly known, is a compound known as a cannabinoid that can be found in both cannabis and hemp plants. It’s believed this cannabinoid may offer various health benefits to both humans and dogs.
Those benefits include discomfort relief, stress relief, easing of stomach issues, and help with sleeping.
The reason CBD products have become so popular in recent years is they were only recently made legal by the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill, which allowed for the cultivation of industrial hemp in the United States.
Unlike its cannabinoid counterpart THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects, which means it won’t get you or your pet intoxicated. This is another big reason for the massive rise in popularity the cannabinoid has seen in recent years.
The Benefits of CBD for Dogs
There are many reasons for pet owners to get excited over the potential of CBD to help their dogs live happier and more comfortable lives. Some of those reason include the following:
- Relief from achy joints
- Calming effects for nervous pets
- Nausea relief
- Help with seizures
There are many more potential advantages to giving your dog CBD, and there is scientific research to back it.
Some of that research included a study of how CBD affects stress indicators in dogs during separation and while traveling in the car. Another study showed a reduction in seizure frequency for epileptic dogs who were given the cannabinoid.
CBD Oil for Dogs
CBD oil for dogs is essentially CBD in liquid form. It’s created by extracting the compound (often with other useful compounds), then concentrating it and adding a carrier oil to give it a desirable consistency.
Benefits of Hemp Oil for Dogs
Here are some of the main reasons you might want to opt for a high-quality CBD oil to give your pup.
Easy Administration
It comes in a demarcated dropper bottle that allows you to provide your pup with an accurate serving size, and it can be added to their water or to a meal. This can really simplify the process of providing your pup with the relief they need.
Fun Flavors
One of the fun things about CBD hemp seed oil is that it can be flavored in various ways to provide your pet with a more enjoyable experience.
Greater Bioavailability
CBD oil is more easily absorbed into your dog’s body without losing much of its potency. That means you’re getting more bang for your buck when you opt for this type of CBD.
Limited Ingredients
CBD oil generally contains the CBD extract, a carrier oil, and little to nothing else. If you’re looking to limit the number of ingredients they’re consuming, this may be your best bet.
CBD Edibles for Dogs
CBD can come in a variety of edible forms. Those forms include CBD treats for dogs, CBD peanut butter for dogs, and more. They’re simply snacks for your pet that are CBD-infused.
Benefits of CBD Edibles for Dogs
Here are some of the most common reasons pet owners might choose edibles over oil for their dogs.
Dogs Love Treats
You can reduce your expenses by opting for CBD edibles, as they can double as treats. Of course, you don’t want to give them more of these treats than your serving chart recommends, but they can still offset your costs while also providing your pet with one of their favorite things in the world.
Extra Ingredients
CBD edibles can also come with other useful ingredients that can provide your pet with all-natural relief. Those ingredients can include chamomile for added relaxation or ginger for added digestive help.
No Extra Steps
CBD oil requires you to add another step to your dog’s daily routine. Adding a few drops to their meal or water isn’t necessarily backbreaking work, but combining their CBD treatment with a tasty treat you can give any time streamlines life for both of you.
Some Tips for Giving CBD to Dogs
Here are a few tips to help you provide your pup with the CBD relief they need.
Mind Your Serving Size
You’ll want to follow the chart on your CBD product to ensure you give your pet the right amount. CBD is safe for dogs, but too much of it can cause some unpleasant side effects, such as diarrhea and dehydration.
Choose Full-Spectrum CBD for Dogs
To get the most out of your CBD, you’ll want to opt for a full-spectrum product, which means it was made with all the amazing compounds found in the hemp plant.
Full-spectrum CBD oil for dogs allows for the entourage effect, which is an amplification of the benefits of each compound that occurs when they are taken in tandem with one another.
Stick With Treats Designed for Dogs
CBD products for humans can sometimes have amounts of THC that exceed the safe limit for your pet. For this reason, you’ll want to ensure you get a product designed specifically for your pup.
CBD Oil or CBD Edibles for Dogs?
Now, you know all you need to know to make an informed choice between CBD oil and CBD edibles for your dog. In the end, it’s generally a matter of preference, so make sure to consider your and your pet’s needs when making your final decision. Reach out to your vet with any concerns.
