Best CBD Oil for Dogs With Joint Pain in 2022

How CBD May Help Dogs With Joint Pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the common types of arthritis in dogs, affecting around a quarter of the population⁽¹⁾. It is a chronic joint illness characterized by loss of joint cartilage, thickening of the joint capsule, and new bone development surrounding the joint (osteophytes). OA leads to chronic pain and limb impairment. 

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical present in cannabis plants⁽²⁾. In most instances, CBD oil does not include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component that gives marijuana its euphoric characteristics. In essence, most CBD products are produced from hemp, not marijuana.

A study evaluated CBD’s therapeutic potential in collagen-induced arthritis in mice (CIA)⁽³⁾. DBA/1 mice were immunized with type II collagen (CII) in Freund’s adjuvant to induce CIA. The CII utilized was either bovine or murine, resulting in either typical acute CIA or chronic relapsing CIA.

In both arthritis models in which CBD was provided after developing clinical signs, the therapy successfully halted the course of arthritis. CBD was just as effective whether supplied subcutaneously or orally. The dose-response curve was bell-shaped, with the optimum impact occurring at 5 mg/kg per day intravenously or 25 mg/kg per day orally.

The findings demonstrate that CBD may have a powerful anti-arthritic impact on CIA due to its putative immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties⁽⁴⁾.

Thus, managing a dog’s arthritic symptoms of joint pain may benefit from these clinical findings.

Benefits of Using CBD for Dogs With Joint Pain

There is no cure for arthritis⁽⁵⁾. However, there are various therapeutic choices available to manage dogs’ pain and inflammation and keep them active.

Some research suggests that dogs that receive CBD may experience a reduction in inflammatory symptoms⁽⁶⁾. 

CBD may interact with receptors in a region of dogs’ bodies known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). These receptors are also known as CB1 and CB2 receptors. 

The ECS is nearly found in all animals, particularly mammals⁽⁷⁾. Scientists noted that the ECS is responsible for maintaining balance within the body, producing hormones, and triggering reactions to modify how organs respond to stimuli from the outside world. 

CBD may affect how the endocannabinoid system (ECS) stimulates pain and inflammatory responses, possibly helping dogs feel less pain and swelling⁽⁸⁾. 

The ECS is also responsible for regulating pain relief and inflammatory signals⁽⁹⁾. Endocannabinoids modify the neural conduction of pain signals by attenuating the nociceptive neural signal of pain and inflammation via the activation of cannabinoid receptors. There is the dual effect of lowering overall pain levels.

Studies on CBD Oil for Dogs With Arthritis

In a study published in 2018, researchers from Cornell University evaluated the effects of CBD given orally to dogs who had osteoarthritis⁽¹⁰⁾.

The use of two different dosages of CBD-enriched oil (2mg/kg and 8mg/kg) and single-dose pharmacokinetics was conducted. A crossover, randomized, placebo-controlled, veterinarian- and an owner-blinded trial was done. 

Each dog got either CBD oil (2 mg/kg) or a placebo oil every 12 hours. Each treatment lasted four weeks, followed by a two-week washout interval.

Before and after treatment, a baseline veterinary assessment was performed, and owner questionnaires were administered. Various physical examinations, as well as serum chemistry and blood samples, were performed at each visit. Mixed model analysis was utilized to analyze the change in enrollment from baseline for all the other time points.

In clinical trials, the reduction in pain inventory and the increase in activity scores were observed with CBD oil. The owners reported no side effects, and serum chemistry also showed an increase in phosphatase.

Meanwhile, another study of cannabidiol-rich hemp oil extract to manage canine osteoarthritis-related pain was conducted⁽¹¹⁾. 

The study’s goal was to determine the effects of a full-spectrum hemp extract and hemp seed oil product on the chronic maladaptive pain conditions of 37 dogs with osteoarthritis.

The dogs were evaluated for their physical condition through a series of procedures that included systematic pain palpation, mapping of pain patterns, and an owner interview. These assessments were performed every two weeks to identify trends and monitor progress.

The metabolic parameters of the 32 dogs that participated in the study were analyzed at the end of the study. After the study, 30 dogs improved their pain support. Ten of the 23 dogs taking the drug known as gabapentin were able to stop taking it, and 11 of them were able to reduce their daily dose of CBD oil.

The study results revealed that the addition of CBD oil to the management of chronic maladaptive pain significantly decreased the severity of the condition and improved the quality of life for the dogs. It is also believed that the reduction in the dose of gabapentin could be due to changes in analgesia.

How to Administer CBD Oil to a Dog for Joint Pain

High-quality CBD oil for dogs is available in numerous forms and administration methods. Here are some basic techniques for administering CBD oil to your furry friend:

• CBD oil may be administered sublingually to dogs by their pet owners.
• CBD-infused dog treats are available in soft chews, bits, and peanut butter flavors.
• CBD topicals may be applied to a dog’s skin for localized pain alleviation from joint soreness, sunburn, and itching.

Dosing

One clinical study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research examined CBD administered orally to healthy dogs⁽¹²⁾.

The researchers administered 1mg to 12mg/kg of cannabidiol to 20 adult beagles for 28 days and observed no clinically significant changes in assessed safety outcomes. Veterinarians also noted no abnormalities.

​​On the CBD product label, you should be able to see how many milligrams of CBD are in each bottle or serving. One dropper is equal to one milliliter for CBD oils and tinctures.

Pet owners may start with the lowest dose and see how their pet does over the next week. If you can tell that things are getting better for your dog’s joint pain, you can keep the dose. If you don’t notice any improvement or if the progress from the low-end dose wears off after a while, move up to the mid-range dose and watch for a week.

CBD will be a strong anti-inflammatory that is ideal for elderly dogs whose movement has been restricted by stiff and unpleasant joints or for pets that suffer from inflammatory bowel conditions⁽¹³⁾.

Remember, there is no standard CBD dosage for dogs because the FDA has not approved cannabis products and their derivatives for any use in animals⁽¹⁴⁾. 

Still, dog owners may initiate a conversation with a veterinarian expert in cannabis use to know what their dog needs⁽¹⁵⁾. State veterinary medical boards in the U.S. regulate the extent to which veterinarians may advise customers on CBD product consumption.

How Long Does CBD Take to Help Dogs With Joint Pain?

Suppose you give your dog CBD oil to address joint pain. You can generally anticipate the compound to start working anywhere after two hours⁽¹⁶⁾. A researcher observed that the experimental concentrations of CBD in dogs administered with oil-based products containing between 2 and 10 mg/kg of CBD reached between 100 and 600 nanograms per milliliter after two hours.

Depending on the amount of CBD and delivery route, CBD oil may provide advantages to your pooch.

CBD tinctures, often used sublingually, enable the substance to skip the digestive system and reach the bloodstream immediately, resulting in a faster onset.

Meanwhile, the liver absorbs CBD treats and chews after passing through the digestive system. This approach may have a delayed onset.

Furthermore, topical CBD solutions, such as lotions and salves, may take action depending on the thickness of the dog’s skin since the bloodstream directly absorbs topicals.

How Long Will CBD Help Dogs With Joint Pain?

When ingested, CBD oil’s effects on humans may last up to eight hours⁽¹⁷⁾. However, although dogs also have ECS, canines are not small humans. 

Hence, CBD’s duration of action may depend on dogs’ metabolism. Various factors, such as their size, age, and health condition, can affect how long CBD’s effects kick in.

Another vital point to consider is pharmacokinetics, which refers to the movement of a particular drug into, through, or out of the body. 

Different dogs have different body functions. It is essential to monitor how long your pet’s CBD effects last before you start giving it to them.

How to Administer CBD Oil to a Dog for Joint Pain

High-quality CBD oil for dogs is available in numerous forms and administration methods. Here are some basic techniques for administering CBD oil to your furry friend:

• CBD oil may be administered sublingually to dogs by their pet owners.
• CBD-infused dog treats are available in soft chews, bits, and peanut butter flavors.
• CBD topicals may be applied to a dog’s skin for localized pain alleviation from joint soreness, sunburn, and itching.

How to Choose Best CBD Oil for Dogs With Joint Pain 

For dog owners, here are some considerations in choosing the best CBD oil for dogs suffering from joint pain:

• Consumers need to avoid CBD oil products designed for humans, which may include flavorings and other substances that are toxic to dogs. 

Additionally, dog owners should be aware that many CBD oils intended for humans may also contain high doses of THC. 

• Consumers may choose organic hemp CBD oil. Dog owners may avoid choosing hemp oil, including additives, pesticides, and herbicides that are often used in industrial hemp. Some organic CBD oil brands offer tasty treats which also contain turmeric root.
• Consumers may consider the extraction process. In general, solvent-free methods such as simple CO2 extraction and cold-press extraction are the most explored extraction⁽¹⁸⁾. However, other CBD firms extract THC from the plant using inexpensive technologies and potentially dangerous solvents, such as propane, hexane, and butane.
• Before purchasing, consumers should confirm the quality and concentration of any hemp oil they consider. Consumers may look for product testing from a third-party lab. 

Testing CBD products is essential to ensure purity and concentration. The mg of CBD should be specified on the label, and the product should be THC-free.

• Consumers may choose full-spectrum CBD oil, containing all the essential compounds present in the whole hemp plant. The entourage effect says that the different parts of cannabis work together to make their impact stronger on the body.
• Consumers may choose MCT coconut oil with no added preservatives. This type of oil may enhance the capacity to metabolize CBD oils. Pet owners may look for a broad-spectrum CBD or full-spectrum CBD oil. This CBD comes with an MCT carrier designed exclusively for dogs to guarantee they are purchasing a high-quality CBD product.

Broad-spectrum CBD products include a wide variety of therapeutic cannabinoids derived from hemp (CBD, CBG, CBC, terpenes (responsible for plant aroma), and other cannabinoids) but no detectable THC. It indicates that the extract does not contain THC.

• Consumers may also choose CBD goods that are cruelty-free, non-GMO, gluten-free, and dairy-free. These organic vegan ingredients are primarily from organically-grown Colorado hemp.
• Consumers may look for CBD brands that offer a money-back guarantee for their CBD pet products.
• Other CBD manufacturers offer CBD products that contain omega-3, 6, and 9 fatty acids. Most hempseed oils contain omega-3. All those fatty acids may help improve brain function and the digestive process⁽¹⁹⁾.

Research from 2018 revealed that CBD administered orally may reduce pain and inflammation in dogs with osteoarthritis⁽²⁰⁾.

However, future research will likely shed light on CBD’s unknowns. Consult with your veterinarian before considering CBD oil as a therapy option.

Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Dogs With Joint Pain

Pet owners may address their dog’s medical conditions such as joint pain, separation anxiety, or dog seizures.

Possible CBD-related side effects in dogs include⁽²¹⁾:

• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Vomiting

Although there are no scientific studies on the adverse effects of CBD use in dogs, there may be possible side effects based on how CBD affects people. To reduce the likelihood of adverse effects, adhere to the prescribed dose.

Research indicates that CBD may reduce saliva production⁽²²⁾. It might appear as increased thirst in dogs. Also, it has been shown that high doses of CBD produce a transient decrease in blood pressure. Even if the CBD drop is small, it may cause a momentary sense of dizziness.

Suppose dog owners have used CBD to address anxiety and drowsiness. In that case, CBD’s soothing impact may also induce mild sleepiness, particularly at larger dosages⁽²³⁾.

Meanwhile, one study determined the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and its pharmacokinetics in healthy dogs⁽²⁴⁾. Thirty healthy dogs were given one of three formulations: oral CBD-infused oil, CBD-infused transdermal cream, or microencapsulated oil beads.

The plasma concentrations of cannabidiol were measured over a period of 12 hours. They were repeated at 2, 4, and 6 weeks. The higher systemic exposure was observed with the formulation of CBD-infused oil. The favorable pharmacokinetic profile of the oil provides the most advantage.

Also, note that static ataxia is a common sign of toxicity in dogs⁽²⁵⁾. You can tell if your dog seems very stiff and has trouble standing. If you think your dog consumed too much THC, you should see a doctor.

Legality of CBD

Numerous veterinarians in the USA are hesitant to recommend CBD because of insufficient studies, or fear of professional or legal penalties⁽²⁶⁾. 

The Food and Drug Administration or FDA has not authorized CBD products for dogs. 

However, the FDA approved popular supplements such as fish oil⁽²⁷⁾. Or the vast majority of human-approved prescription medications are often administered in veterinary practice.

Although vet practices can sell hemp-derived products having less than 0.3% THC, the American Veterinary Medical Association did not previously permit veterinarians to recommend cannabis products⁽²⁸⁾. 

As the number of CBD goods containing marijuana and other cannabinoid-derived compounds continues to increase, the FDA will continue to adopt additional rules to clarify the public health responsibilities associated with these drugs⁽²⁹⁾. Moreover, the agency will continue to examine consumer-sold items.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms in Dogs

Osteoarthritis may be challenging to identify in its early stages, and symptoms generally do not manifest until the afflicted joint has been severely compromised⁽³⁰⁾. 

Some canines may be very stoic and will conceal their suffering until the condition gets severe. Therefore, it is essential to observe middle-aged to elderly dogs and those prone to osteoarthritis for early indicators of joint illness. These indicators include:

• Loss of muscle mass in the limbs and spine
• Weakness in the limbs and spine
• Lethargy
• Inflexibility, lameness, limping, or trouble getting up
  
• Weight increase
• Reluctance to run, jump, or play
• Irritability or behavioral changes
• Pain when touched or petted
• Difficulty urinating or defecating, or accidents at home 

Other Alternative Treatments for Dogs With Joint Pain

Although there is no known cure for osteoarthritis, it can be treated through various methods⁽³¹⁾. One of these is by maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise. 

Pet owners may prevent joint pain like osteoarthritis from developing by using supplements and reducing inflammation. When it gets worse, treatment usually focuses on controlling pain and improving the quality of life.

Pain control is also a vital part of the treatment process. Humans with this condition commonly take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)⁽³²⁾. These drugs can help decrease inflammation in the joints and reduce pain.

Disabled and older dogs with chronic diseases such as arthritis and hip dysplasia experience substantial discomfort due to inflammation⁽³³⁾. These disorders are often treated aggressively with NSAIDs.

Although NSAID therapy can help treat arthritis and other conditions in dogs, it can also cause side effects, such as kidney failure and liver damage⁽³⁴⁾.

Your veterinarian may also suggest various treatment methods such as acupuncture, cold laser, and physiotherapy⁽³⁵⁾. They may perform surgery to remove damaged tissue or even replace the joint entirely in severe cases.

Likewise, maintaining a healthy dog’s weight and regular exercise are the best ways to improve your dog’s joint health and wellness⁽³⁶⁾. Carrying too much weight can cause the cartilage to break down, leading to the development of osteoarthritis. 

Having a healthy body can also help prevent other conditions such as diabetes and arthritis from developing⁽³⁷⁾. If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian may help you create a diet and exercise plan that will help improve the dog’s health.