Dogs become anxious for many reasons. They may not be getting enough exercise, stimulation, or interaction, so they become bored and potentially destructive. They may be rescued and are having a difficult time adjusting to their new environment. Or they may feel anxious due to weather changes (such as heavy rains, strong winds, or booming thunder) or when left alone. Many pet owners explore a variety of supplements, including CBD products, as part of their overall wellness routine for their dog.
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Anxious
Your dog may not be able to tell you with words that they’re feeling anxious, stressed, or fearful, but they’re likely providing a lot of signs. Some common symptoms include:
- Pacing
- Trembling or shaking
- Whimpering
- Hypervigilance (ears up, eyes scanning and dilated)
- Licking lips
- Yawning frequently
- Decreased appetite (even avoiding the distraction of treats)
- Drooling
- Panting and increased heart rate
- Overgrooming (sometimes even inflicting injury)
- Aggression
Supporting Your Dog’s Wellbeing
While it’s easy to get frustrated with an anxious dog, it’s important to stay calm, supportive, and patient. After all, isn’t that what helps most of us when we’re feeling unsettled?
Take a look around the environment. Is there anything you can do to remove the triggers that lead to anxiety? Of course, some triggers can’t be removed. No one can stop thunderstorms or prevent people from celebrating with fireworks. And most of us can’t move to get away from a busy street or noisy neighbor.
Animal behaviorists can also help, especially if the problems become more concerning. They may help you better determine why your dog is getting stressed and work with you to remove triggers. For example, a behaviorist may be able to:
- Help you determine triggers like other dogs, people, or overstimulation, and provide calming solutions.
- Provide ideas for quiet places to walk and games you can play at home instead of heading to a stressful dog park.
- Help you create a calming sanctuary room or space for your dog where they can relax and unwind when it’s loud (e.g., fireworks and thunderstorms) or you have visitors.
- Provide training or games to help you modify behavior.
Working with your vet, you may be able to help get to the bottom of any medical issues that could be contributing to changes in your dog’s demeanor. Some vets even prescribe medications for behavioral concerns. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplement for your pet.
About CBD for Dogs
CBD is a compound found in oils extracted from the hemp plant, specifically the leaves, stems, and flower (bud).
One concern many people have is that CBD can “get the dog high.” Fortunately, CBD products for dogs come from the hemp plant, which contains negligible levels of THC (0.3% or less). Because it lacks the psychoactive component, it will not make your dog feel high, stoned, or act “funny.”
CBD Oil Serving Size for Dogs
Serving size guidelines depend on the size of the dog as well as the concentration of CBD within the product. For ABSC Organics, you can find the serving size guidelines here.
Serving sizes are guided by a dog’s size and metabolism, which is why we publish clear mg-per-mL servings on every bottle. Monitor your dog after introducing any new supplement and consult your veterinarian with any questions.
Choosing Quality CBD for Dogs
There are a lot of CBD products available for pets. Unfortunately, not all of them are created equal. For example, some research has found large discrepancies between what’s on the label and what’s actually in the product.
High-quality CBD for dogs is transparent about its ingredients, organic, free from GMOs, pesticides, and herbicides, and provides information on how much CBD is in the product as well as third-party testing to show the information is accurate.
Explore ABSC Organics USDA Organic, third-party lab tested CBD products for pets. Get started here.
Related Information:
- CBD Oil for Small Dogs
- CBD Oil for Medium Pets
- CBD Oil for Large Dogs
- CBD Oil for Dogs
- CBD FAQs for Pets
- Pure CBD Oil Dosage for Dogs
References:
Lofgren SE, Wiener P, Blott SC, Sanchez-Molano E, Woolliams JA, Clements DN, Haskell MJ. Management and personality in Labrador Retriever dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2014 Jul 1;156:44-53. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159114001099
Dreschel NA. The effects of fear and anxiety on health and lifespan in pet dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 2010 Jul 1;125(3-4):157-62. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168159110001243
Bonn-Miller MO, Loflin MJ, Thomas BF, Marcu JP, Hyke T, Vandrey R. Labeling accuracy of cannabidiol extracts sold online. JAMA. 2017 Nov 7;318(17):1708-9. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2661569
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen for your pet. Individual results may vary. ABSC Organics CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
