The relationship between dogs and humans stretches back about 14,000 years.
Dogs protect us, make us laugh, and keep us company during trying times. The least we can do is find a way to make them feel better when they’re ill.
Our furry friends are more sensitive to medications than humans. Many dog owners want to find natural alternatives to high doses of pain medications.
Looking to cannabis for the solution makes sense. When humans consume CBD or its cousin THC, we feel better. Surely it’s the same with dogs, right?
But can dogs get high when you treat their aches and pains with cannabis products? We’ve got all the answers you need.
What is the Difference Between CBD and THC?
Before you buy cannabis products for your dog, you need to know more about this helpful plant.
Legal cannabidiol (CBD) comes from hemp plants. Hemp is classified as any cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% of THC. People use CBD for pain relief because CBD by itself doesn’t make you feel high.
CBD has a similar molecular structure to a dog’s natural endocannabinoids. When ingested, CBD helps balance the dog’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates essential functions such as:
- Metabolism
- Movement
- Mood
- Appetite
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Marijuana plants contain between 5 to 20% THC. The higher the percentage, the higher you feel.
While THC makes us feel good, it does the opposite for our furry companions.
Can Dogs Get High?
Not only can dogs get high, but their brains are also wired to process more cannabinoids than humans. What’s that mean? It means a small dose of THC can make dogs too high.
Dogs don’t do well when their senses are altered. For instance, if they ingest THC-laced chocolate, they may vomit and inhale it. This is called aspiration pneumonia, and it requires hospitalization to treat it.
Dogs who ingest THC may:
- Lose bladder control
- Have low blood pressure
- Fall over
- Startle easily
- Have a slow heart rate
Contact a vet if your dog ingests an edible containing THC. They will walk you through the best way to help your dog.
Are Dog CBD Treats Safe?
When shopping for Fido’s new CBD treats, look for hemp-based CBD products. Because CBD is not psychoactive, dogs don’t have adverse reactions to it.
Dog owners who use CBD for their pets say it helps with:
- Epilepsy
- Nausea
- Arthritis
- Anxiety
- Loss of appetite
To learn more about using CBD for dogs, read this article by Happy Hemp.
Like with any natural supplement, be careful if you plan to give your dog CBD alongside any medications. CBD alters how the liver functions. This changes how fast dogs metabolize pills and could cause an overdose.
Be Safe When Using CBD For Dogs
The government does not regulate CBD products. When you find a CBD brand you want to try, make sure they provide third-party testing. These tests show the CBD potency, as well as any impurities found in the product.
Read the product instructions carefully before administering the CBD to your dog. Start with the lowest dosage.
Can dogs get high from CBD? No. It’s non-toxic and is not psychoactive.
Keep your furry friend safe by learning more about CBD. Our blog has tons of helpful information.