9 Tips to Buy CBD Oil for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide for Dog Owners

CBD dog products are the newest and most popular way to inject the health goodness of CBD into your pet. CBD is a compound found in the hemp plant. It has no psychoactive effects, so you do not have to worry about the substance getting your dog high. CBD products are available in different flavors.

Therefore, there is always something for every dog. Besides, they are easy to administer. Depending on their size and condition, dogs may need one or more doses daily. Giving your pet CBD oil regularly affects their mood, energy, and general well-being.

This article briefly highlights the benefits of CBD oil and regulations surrounding this subject before diving into the various tips to buy CBD oil for dogs. It also answers some frequently asked questions about using CBD oil in dogs.

Consider the following tips when buying CBD oil for dogs.

1 Consider a Full or Broad Spectrum Hemp

Always check your CBD product’s label to establish whether it is full or broad spectrum. A full- or broad-spectrum CBD oil contains CBD and other naturally occurring cannabinoids. Among them are CBG (Cannabigerol) and CBC (Cannabichromene).

- CBC and CBG

CBC is being studied for its tumor-shrinking and pain-blocking abilities. It has also proven effective in enhancing dogs’ cognitive functions and lessening inflammation. CBG is also under study for its medicinal properties. It helps reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. It can also protect the eyes and nerve cells, fight cancer cells and support healthy bladder function.

A full-spectrum CBD oil also contains terpenes like beta-pinene and limonene. They also occur naturally in hemp. With their efforts combined, terpenes and cannabinoids create the “entourage” effect. This is where hemp oil compounds coordinate to enhance the medicinal properties of the hemp oil.

2 Ensure Your Dog’s CBD Uses CO2 Extraction

Two common ways are used to extract CBD oil from the hemp plant.

- CO2 Extraction

This extraction method utilizes carbon dioxide. CO2 uses a high-pressure chamber to exert pressure on the hemp. Resultantly, the hemp breaks down, releasing the oil. This method produces oils with higher CBD concentrations.

If your dog consumes this oil, it will reap most of its health benefits. Because of this, prices for these oils are usually on the higher end. Either way, they are better than their alternatives.

- Solvent Extraction

This is the cheapest oil extraction method. The common solvents used are petroleum products, butane, and propane. However, expect to find residue from these solvents in the CBD. The residue can cause harm to your four-legged friend.

Some solvent extraction methods use natural solvents like olive oil and ethanol. While these solvents are safer for your pup, they destroy the waxes of the hemp plant. Resultantly, the oils that come out aren’t as beneficial.

3 Look Out for a Certificate of Analysis

A CBD product without a certificate of analysis (COA) should be a cause for alarm. A COA is a document showing the type and quantity of cannabinoids in a CBD product. A third-party laboratory formulates it.

COAs shield your furry friend from sub-par products. Manufacturers should have COA for every batch of hemp. If you do not see a COA on the company website, request one before finalizing your purchase.

A trustworthy COA should feature the following three panels:

• The Cannabinoid Analysis: It indicates the concentration and weight of cannabinoids in the product.
• The Heavy Metal Analysis: It indicates the levels of heavy metals such as mercury and lead in the product. Excessive exposure to these metals can cause serious health issues like kidney damage.
• The Pesticide Analysis: It measures traces of substances used to protect plants during farming. Exposure to pesticides can cause liver toxicity, hormone disruption, and a weakened immune system.

When studying the COA, look at these essential things:

- CBD Is the Same as Advertised

Unfortunately, what some manufacturers indicate on the container of a CBD product may not always be accurate. So, always check to see if what is indicated on the product label is also in the COA.

Most laboratory tests express the CBD content in mg/g. therefore, to ascertain the CBD quantity, you should know the number of grams in the CBD bottle.

Suppose the COA indicates 20.0 mg/g CBD. To find out the quantity of CBD in the product, multiply the number of mg/g by the weight of the bottle in grams. This gives you the bottle’s CBD quantity in mg.

Typically, a 1-ounce dropper of CBD weighs 30 grams. In this case, the CBD content is 600 mg (20.0 mg/g x 30 g bottle).

- CBD Is Full Spectrum, as Indicated

Again, do not believe everything written on the label. Some oils may contain CBD isolate. This is a pure form of CBD, meaning it lacks other essential terpenes and cannabinoids. With CBD isolate, there will be no “entourage” effect. If the product has CBD isolate, the COA shows that it only has CBD and no other cannabinoids.

- The THC Levels Are Moderate

If the THC content in your dog’s CBD is higher than 0.03%, it is probably marijuana. It poses psychoactive risks and is illegal. Also, beware of products with no THC, as this means they have CBD isolate, which has little health benefits.
- A Third-Party Conducted the Tests

Ensure the product has undergone rigorous testing by a third-party laboratory. Unfortunately, the CBD world is unregulated, so it is easy to fall prey to dishonest sellers.

- There Are No Contaminants

It is also crucial to determine where the hemp used to make the CBD oil is grown. This plays a significant role in the results of the COA. Consider organic products to reduce the environmental pollution footprint.

You want to ensure the hemp grows in clean water and soil. This is because the plants are spongy, so they can absorb contaminants. For this reason, always check the COA for contaminants like heavy metals, solvent residues, and pesticides.

- The CBD Oil is non-GMO

Non-GMO CBD oil is derived from hemp plants that are not genetically altered. Many CBD brands market their products as non-GMO without verification. Information on this subject should be available on the COA.

4 Cost Should Not Be a Priority

Comparing products can be difficult, so most people resort to using costs. However, this isn't the best idea. You want a safe product of high quality. CBD oil extraction utilizes several costly processes, which justifies the slightly higher prices.

If the product you are eyeing is considerably cheaper than its substitutes, something may be off. But always remember that expensive doesn’t always mean better and vice versa.

5 Ensure There Are No Additives

You want to ensure your product is free of chemical preservatives and additives. While hemp may be grown organically, being loaded with chemicals cancels out its health benefits. Avoid manufacturers that have infused essential oils in their CBD oil. Although they are natural, they can negatively affect your dog.

However, if your vet has recommended using CBD products with essential oils, follow their dosing instructions. They will know what works best for your furry friend. Some may recommend using CBD with frankincense to help fight cancer in your pup.

6 Go For “Nano-Sized Microemulsion” CBD

CBD oils are of varying qualities. A critical factor in determining a product's quality and potency is the method of CBD emulsification.

- Standard Emulsion

The cheapest and lowest quality oils. They have large particles and poor absorption.

- Liposomal Emulsion

The prices of these oils are slightly higher. The oils have smaller particles and good absorption.

- Nano-sized emulsion

Few CBD brands produce their oils this way. The oil has the smallest particle and excellent absorption.

7 Beware of Products Labelled Only as “Hemp Oil”

Many manufacturers do not indicate "CBD" on the labels of their products. Instead, they just put "hemp oil." If it is impossible to verify the CBD amount in a hemp product, buying it may not be a good idea.

Also, remember that the labels “hemp oil with CBD” and “hemp seed oil “do not mean the same thing. The latter is an acceptable medium, provided it also has added CBD. On the other hand, hemp seed does not have sufficient CBD to be therapeutic.

8 Go for Tinctures

Your dog may love feasting on delicious chews and treats. However, experts recommend that CBD oil in a tincture is the most effective form of CBD. Administering CBD to your dog in solution form ensures maximum potency and purity.

Because you use a dropper, you can control the CBD dose, protecting your pet from an overdose. You can administer the CBD oil sublingually or mix it with your dog’s food. Alternatively, you can dilute it with water or mix it with a tasty treat.

9 Purchase from a Reputable and Transparent Company

A good reputation indicates that the company has been in existence for a long time and has many satisfied customers. This is a sign that they are doing something right. Because the CBD industry isn't regulated, companies must be candid with their customers.

The COA is one way to ensure transparency. A company that conducts third-party laboratory tests on their products also helps you be confident about what your dog is consuming. Regarding third-party tests, consider companies that test every batch of their products to ensure purity and quality control standards.

4 Reasons Why Your Dog Needs CBD

CBD aids in relieving several symptoms in dogs. Here are some common ones.

1. Joint Stiffness and Pain

Dogs can be afflicted with joint developmental or degenerative issues. Your dog may be born with these issues or may develop them at a point in their life. No matter the root cause of the problem, the pain negatively affects the quality of your furry friend’s life.

While there are steroid injections and pain medications, among other treatment options, these aren't often effective.

Besides, they can cause adverse side effects. The good news? CBD oil offers a convenient and safe alternative. Its anti-inflammatory properties focus on the painful areas providing relief, easing pain, and soothing inflammation.

2. Pain Relief

Although CBD oil doesn't cure arthritis, it relieves several kinds of pain. However, it targets inflammation-induced and nerve-related pain more. Acute diseases, too, are associated with pain. It functions by regulating the functions of the immune system, such as pain response, to restore balance in the dog's body. CBD oil also helps deal with oxidative stress resulting from free radicals.

3. Anxiety

Mammals have a similar endocannabinoid system (ECS). Therefore, CBD oil has the same effect on dogs that it has on humans. It helps your dog manage stress, phobias, and separation anxiety. It also promotes calmness and reduces anxiety. It does this by initiating effective chemical transmissions and responses.

4. Seizures and Epilepsy

It is common for dogs to experience seizures. These episodes can last 10 to 20 seconds. Studies have been done on the ability of CBD to lessen the frequency and severity of seizures. This is because of its anti-convulsant properties.

CBD Regulations

Unfortunately, the world of CBD is not regulated by the FDA or any other relevant authorities. This is why it is easy to get sub-par CBD products if you aren’t careful. There are cases where products have been found to have zero CBD content.

Some have been reported to contain contaminants. The only sure way to ascertain the legitimacy of a CBD product is by checking its certificate of analysis (COA). The COA should come from a third-party laboratory.

This is why it is crucial to do thorough research before getting CBD products for your little canine friend. There are several factors to consider when shopping for an effective and safe CBD product for your pet. They are discussed in the checklist below

Other Factors to Consider

Besides the tips mentioned above, also consider these factors when buying CBD oil for your dog:

Your Pet’s Health

Consider your pet’s current health condition before getting any supplements. If your dog is on other supplements or medications, check with your holistic veterinary first.

Although CBD has various health benefits, it can alter the metabolization of certain supplements or medications in your dog's body.

If your dog is on any of these medications, you might want to consult with your vet on dose changes:

• Allergy medications
• Steroids
• NSAIDs
• Kidney or liver meds
• Anxiety meds
• Heart medications

Hopefully, your vet can offer you alternatives. This does not mean a dog on other medications or supplements cannot have CBD oil. You may only need to make some adjustments. CBD may change the metabolism of other substances for the better.

Safety and Legality

CBD isn’t legally approved in some states and countries. Such places prohibit buying or selling CBD oil legally. Therefore, check with your laws before going for such products.

Extraction from the Flower

Although you can extract CBD from the hemp stalks and hemp seed oil from the seeds, the plant’s most effective and potent part is the flower. The stalks usually have very little CBD.

Customer Reviews

It is good practice to look at the reviews on the CBD product you want to buy. A peek at the review section gives you an insight into the product quality and the success stories. You can find the reviews on the company website or any other platform.

A Clean Formula

The label of the CBD product lists all ingredients used. Ensure the list is as short as possible and the non-CBD ingredients present are safe and high-quality.

Flavor or No Flavor

Some CBD oils are flavored, while others aren't. If you have a preference, it is essential to check whether the oil is flavored. While at it, note that broad and full spectrum CBD oil tastes like hemp, so unflavoured doesn’t necessarily mean flavorless.

Long Shelf Life

Generally, CBD oils last for around two years. Beyond this period, their chemical compounds start breaking down. As a result, they become ineffective. Pay attention to the expiration date on the label if you will use the product for a long time.

CBD Dosage for Pets

Regardless of the method, you use to administer CBD oil to your dog, always consider the dosage. The manufacturing and selling processes of CBD products aren't regulated, so there is no universal dosage. So, the following factors will help you establish the proper dosage for your little friend:

• Weight
• Health condition
• Other factors like digestion and previous meals

But most people usually use the dog's weight as a guide. As a general rule of thumb, 1 to 3 mg of CBD per 10 lbs. of dogs daily is ideal. Therefore, a 40 lb. dog can begin at 4 mg of CBD and gravitate to 12 mg with time.

Where to Buy CBD Oil for Dogs

The FDA doesn’t regulate the CBD industry. Therefore, it is upon the pet owner to look for quality CBD products. To ensure you aren't scammed by dishonest sellers, ensure the product has passed through third-party lab tests and has a COA.

If you buy from an online retailer, they usually will give you a COA and lab results. You can also get your products from larger health food stores which should equally five you COAs. Avoid manufacturers that are secretive about their products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Pet Get "High" on CBD Oil?

No, CBD oil does not make your pet high. There is a difference between cannabis and the hemp plant from which CBD oil is extracted. THC is a compound in marijuana with intoxicating properties. Conversely, hemp has high CBD levels and very low THC levels. Therefore, it does not possess psychoactive effects.

How Does CBD Work in Pets?

Digs have an endocannabinoid system (ECS)–a regulatory framework in the body. It regulates essential physiological processes like mood, appetite, pain, and sleep to maintain a state of balance in the mood. When introduced into the body, cannabinoids such as CBD interact with the ECS, enabling them to control essential bodily functions.

What Are the Different Types of CBD Products for Dogs?

They include:

- CBD Oils/Tinctures

They come with a dropper that lets you control the amount of CBD you administer to your dog. The best way to give your dog CBD oils is sublingually.

This method allows the CBD to infiltrate the tissues beneath the dog’s tongue into the blood system. Alternatively, you can add them to your dog’s food.

- CBD Bites and Chews

Every canine member loves a good treat, and what better way to spice up snack time than giving CBD treats for dogs. They are available in various sizes and shapes and have delicious flavors like turmeric, coconut, and peanut butter.

- CBD Topicals

Your dog does not have to ingest CBD oil for its health benefits. Topical application is also viable. Because CBD helps promote healthy skin, CBD-infused oils will be efficient in moisturizing dry skin in pets.

It isn’t hard to see why CBD oil is taking the holistic world by storm. From pain relief to stress and anxiety management, there is no limit to what CBD products can do for your furry friend.

Because the CBD waters are still murky, finding safe and high-quality products is tricky. However, the above tips to buy the CBD oil for dogs can offer much-needed guidance. At Honest Paws, our oils are full-spectrum and have been thoroughly tested in third-party labs.

Our products are organic, human-grade, non-GMO, and free of soy, dairy, gluten, and corn. We welcome you to sample our collection that spans four unique condition-specific lines: mobility, wellness, relief, and calm.

How can we assist?

Call or Text us now: 1-844-729-7790

Email: ask@honestpaws.com