According to experts, it’s believed that approximately 20% of all dogs older than a year suffer from arthritis (osteoarthritis). [1] Although older dogs are more likely to develop arthritis and inflammation associated with the condition, younger dogs can still develop this disease.
Unfortunately, canine osteoarthritis is an inflammatory condition often marked by loss of mobility, stiffness, and pain. That’s why dogs with this condition can feel reluctant to play, lethargic, and irritable.
Fortunately, in recent years there have been a few new remedies that help dogs with this condition, one of them being the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD). According to new studies like the one published in the journal PAIN, CBD is proving to help dogs suffering from arthritis and inflammation. [2]
Of course, dosages and delivery methods are currently varied, but there is a correlation between CBD and a reduction in pain and inflammation felt by dogs suffering from arthritis. In our article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about helping your pet.
Can CBD For Dogs Cure Inflammation And Arthritis?
Ultimately, CBD cannot cure canine inflammation and arthritis. As is the case with humans, there is no cure for the disease in dogs. Yet, there are different treatment options, with CBD being one of the natural approaches pet owners can choose for their dogs.
Some pet owners and researchers have found that certain CBD products and dosages – depending on the dog and the severity of the condition – help a dog with its joint pain. This means that arthritic dogs treated with CBD are more likely to manage their pain and inflammation while keeping active and mobile.
Yet, it’s crucial to note that CBD only treats the symptoms. As mentioned, it won’t cure arthritis. Some studies suggest there is lasting symptom management after CBD treatment is stopped, but more evidence is needed.
Since most major types of canine arthritis are inflammatory conditions, CBD oils, tinctures, and supplements help reduce associated mobility issues, swelling, and pain. Yet, it’s true that studies are limited to CBDs’ ability to effectively treat symptoms in the long run.
However, a Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine study concluded that arthritic dogs given CBD at a rate of 4.4mg per pound twice a day for a month showed drastic improvement in quality of life and pain relief. [3]
Some of the arthritic dogs involved in the study were incredibly frail, with their owners even considering euthanasia. Yet, after being on CBD treatment, many decrepit dogs were moving around and climbing stairs within a few days of treatments. Moreover, a Baylor University study showed similar results but with CBD delivered in a liposomal formulation.
As more and more veterinarians are treating dogs with CBD, The American Veterinary Medical Association is advocating for more controlled clinical studies and for the FDA to approve manufacturers before products are sold. In extreme cases, some CBD products marketed as good for arthritis and inflammation can worsen a dog’s condition if they include toxic substances like fungicides, pesticides, and heavy metals.
That’s why before treating your dog with CBD, you should speak with a veterinarian first. A veterinarian can evaluate the severity of your dog’s condition and tell you how CBD may benefit its pain management, inflammation, and mobility. They can also tell you which CBD products you should use and the dosages you should administer.
Is CBD Anti-Inflammatory? Can It Help Dogs Suffering From Inflammation
As we briefly discussed above, CBD has been proven to help reduce inflammation in canines, as well as humans and probably all mammals. According to a few studies, CBD treatment can significantly help reduce inflammation with minimal risk to your pet when dosages are correct.
This is because cannabinoids have been proven to possess potent anti-inflammatory effects when administered orally and when applied directly to the skin. In fact, CBD is becoming more popular than NSAID treatments because it has far fewer side effects.
It’s important to note that cannabidiol is not the only molecule in the cannabis plant that has demonstrates anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. This, along with the entourage effect (the hypothesis that cannabis compounds when given together have a greater effect by acting synergistically), is the reason why full or broad spectrum CBD products will be more beneficial than isolates.
The Bottom Line
CBD is a viable treatment option for canines suffering from arthritis and inflammation. With minimal adverse effects and a significant chance of improving your pet’s quality of life, it’s an excellent treatment option. Yet, remember to consult a veterinarian first to ensure you purchase the right CBD medicine and have the correct dosages for your dog.
