In some cases, phobias can be a serious problem for dogs – and their owners – to deal with. For both of these reasons, it is important to find different ways to reduce the anxiety your dog feels when faced with a phobia-inducing situation. While there are a number of strategies available that will help your dog overcome his fear, CBD may be an especially effective approach when dealing with noise phobias.
Whilst it is still early days when it comes to scientific studies of the use of CBD in treating mental health issues in dogs, there are promising signs that this cannabinoid could benefit dogs who experience fear or anxiety during loud noises. Here we look into what makes CBD such a promising option, as well as the factors that might affect its success when it comes to treating dogs with noise phobias.
CBD and noise phobia in dogs
In recent years there have been many studies conducted on the effects of CBD – and other cannabinoids – on mental health conditions in humans. However, we are only just beginning to understand the potential benefits this compound could have for dogs.
A 2011 study tested CBD on lab mice to see what effects it had on their stress levels when confronted with loud noises. The results demonstrated that CBD increased the rodents’ “emotional coping mechanisms”, which resulted in reduced fear of the noise itself. These findings were supported by a 2016 analysis of previous research, which showed that CBD does indeed affect the regions of the brain which control fear and anxiety. This included situations such as loud noises, conflict with other dogs, and separation from loved ones – all things that can trigger stress or fear in dogs.
How does CBD Oil Work?
It is important to understand what you are treating when giving your dog CBD oil, and the right doses. As repeatedly emphasized on www.sanjuanjournal.com , CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, which means it will not make your dog feel high or stoned in any way. It works by connecting with receptors in your dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Your ECS is responsible for regulating a variety of functions in your dog’s body. It is composed of a network of cell receptors and corresponding molecules, which exist to receive chemical signals. This system responds to CBD oil by producing “hormones that may reduce anxiety (such as serotonin and dopamine), regulate pain, and decrease inflammation (such as cytokines and chemokines)”.
How to administer CBD oil to your dog
It is important to remember that you should start with a low dose and gradually build up the dosage until you find the level that works for your dog. The best way to administer CBD oil is by placing a few drops on your dog’s food or directly into their mouth. You can sprinkle it onto a treat, or mix it in with a small amount of wet food.
You should give your dog their first dose before you begin exposing them to the noise that they find stressful. For example, if your dog is frightened by fireworks or thunder, give them their first dose of CBD oil before you take them outside to see the display. At this point it is important not to expect immediate results – you need to make sure your dog has time to feel the effects of the oil.
CBD oil should be given daily for at least two weeks, then you can begin reducing the dosage to find out what works for your dog. It may take a few days for them to feel the full effects, so continue to dose daily until you are sure that CBD is helping your dog’s anxiety.
Conclusion
There are a number of ways that CBD can help dogs who struggle with loud noises. The oil is available in different doses to suit your dog’s needs, and it works by reducing their stress rather than masking the symptoms of their fear, meaning it could be an effective way to treat noise phobias for dogs.