Just as humans experience a wide range of emotions, dogs, being the social animals they are and the binding they experience with humans and other animals, may feel stress and anxiety. Some dogs exhibit more anxious behaviors when separated from their human companions, or when traveling in vehicles. Despite training methods, medications and other supplements that provide mixed results, veterinarians are taking a more serious look at CBD as an effective anti-anxiety treatment for dogs.
Canine Stress & Anxiety
It is well established in veterinary science and common sense, that dogs experience emotional reactions to circumstances in their environment. Although mild stress is mostly harmless, long-lasting or chronic stress can lead to a number of physical and emotional health problems. When dogs experience isolation, they may exhibit separation anxiety, which occurs in around 50% of dogs. Experiencing auditory and visual stimuli during transportation in vehicles can also lead to stress and anxiety, as well as loud noises produced by storms and fireworks.
CBD Reduces Anxiety in Dogs
Recent studies have shown successful use of CBD as a remedy in reducing canine stress and anxiety. They report positive changes in stress-related measures in serum cortisol, mean ear temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability, whining, panting, trembling and hypersalivating. Dosage depends upon the size and weight of the dog. Such studies also report results including dogs being less sad, tense and uncomfortable and more explorative and relaxed.
Other Benefits of CBD for Dogs
In both preclinical and human studies, CBD has been shown to have a number of health benefits that would also be beneficial for dogs, including its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing effects on canine arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Final Thoughts on CBD and Anxiety in Dogs
Dogs experience many of the same emotions that humans do, including stress, anxiety and sadness. They can become particularly anxious when separated from their companion, go for a car ride, or are exposed to loud noises. Veterinarians and researchers are becoming increasingly more interested in CBD as an all-natural, plant-based treatment for a number of health issues among dogs. The bottom line – CBD appears to be effective for both emotional and physical well-being of our furry little four-legged friends.
References
- Hunt ABG, Flint HE, Logan DW, King T. A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Front Vet Sci. 2023.
- Masataka N. Is cannabidiol (CBD) effective to ease separation anxiety? Heliyon. 2024.