Whether it’s for dogs, humans, or other mammals, both hemp and CBD have grown in popularity since the hemp plant was officially recognized as legal with the 2018 Farm Bill (though hemp had a very, very long history before that date). Yet while CBD is found in hemp, not all hemp oil contains CBD. So, what’s the difference between hemp oil vs CBD oil for dogs?
The cannabinoid CBD is found in hemp, so the two are related. Thus, the confusion is understandable. But, they are also very different, not only in labeling and language but in effects and how they’re used.
What Is Hemp Oil for Dogs?
Hemp is another name for a specific type of Cannabis sativa plant. The hemp plant shouldn’t be confused with another strain of the cannabis plant, i.e., marijuana. But for many years, that was often the case. This is why hemp’s legal status remained murky in the U.S., despite the fact that hemp was grown in many other parts of the world, including our neighbors to the North (i.e., Canada).
When the cannabis plant is grown to produce high amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, it’s often referred to as marijuana. THC is the compound that produces the well-known psychoactive high, along with many potential health benefits for humans like relief from pain, nausea, and sleeplessness. (It’s important to note that THC is not recommended for dogs or cats.)
Hemp cannabis, on the other hand, contains only trace amounts of THC (no more than 0.3%), so it lacks the ability to get you (or your dog) high or “stoned.” Hemp should in no way be confused with “drugs” used for recreational purposes.
Hemp seed oil is made by cold-pressing the cleaned seeds from these low-THC strains of the cannabis plant. The oil can then be used nutritionally as it provides high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 essentially fatty acids. It’s especially rich in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), a type of omega-6 fatty acid. 1 The seeds also are rich in protein and amino acids and provide high amounts of antioxidants and vitamins like B and D. However, because hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the cannabis plant—rather than the leaves or flowers—it does not provide any cannabinoids, terpenes, or other compounds.
The hemp seed oil can also be used topically as a massage oil or as a component in skincare products and as a carrier oil for other nutrients.
Hemp seed oil is included in foods, as supplements, and in skincare products. Unfortunately, there’s little in the way of animal, including dog, research at this time.
Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil for Dogs: What’s the Difference?
CBD oil is also made from the Cannabis sativa plant or “industrial hemp.” However, unlike hemp oil, CBD is a component found in strains of hemp that are specifically extracted through various methods from the leaves and flowers of the cannabis plant.
Broad-spectrum CBD oils provide the beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the plant. CBD oil is commonly used by pet owners interested in supporting:
- Skin health
- Joint health
- Digestion
- Sleep
- Appetite
- Mood
- Behavior
CBD not only lacks the psychoactive properties of THC, it is also extracted from the hemp plant, which contains no more than trace (0.3% or less) amounts of THC.
What’s Right for Your Dog: Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil
While both hemp seed oil and CBD come from the cannabis plant, they have very different profiles. If you are looking to support your dog nutritionally and ensure they’re getting enough essential fatty acids, then hemp oil might be the right supplement. Essential fatty acids may help support general health and are a common component of pet nutrition.
On the other hand, CBD oil from the cannabis plant provides a different range of plant-based compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes not found in hemp seed oil.
So, while both hemp oil and CBD oil from the cannabis plant may offer nutritional value for your dog, they differ in their composition and the types of compounds they deliver.
Hemp Oil + CBD Oil: A Winning Combination
If you’re looking for the best of all words, consider searching for a CBD oil that uses hemp oil as a carrier, which then provides the benefits of both hemp oil and CBD oil, so you don’t have to pick one or the other. For example, ABSC Organics uses both CBD and certified hemp seed oil for the highest quality, premium tincture.
The cannabis plant has so many benefits to offer, and the research is only now showing us the benefits of hemp, CBD, terpenes, and other intriguing compounds found in this ancient but often misunderstood plant.
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:
1. Fan YY, Chapkin RS. Importance of dietary γ-linolenic acid in human health and nutrition. The Journal of Nutrition. 1998 Sep 1;128(9):1411-4. https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/128/9/1411/4722487
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.
