As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend eat nutritious food, and get plenty of exercise and affection. But even with the best care, some dogs suffer from skin and coat issues like itching, hot spots, excessive shedding, dull coats, and more. The reasons range from allergies and irritation to more serious conditions like mange. Whatever the cause, watching your dog constantly scratch or lick themselves is heart-breaking. This is where CBD oil comes in. An increasing number of dog owners are discovering the benefits of CBD for their pets.
- Boosting skin and coat health
Diet contributes to skin and coat health. But cbd oil for dogs also plays a role from within by supporting overall wellness. Its antioxidant properties help remove damage-causing free radicals. CBD promotes skin cell turnover and oil production for smoother, shinier fur. A healthier coat means less dandruff and shedding.
- Fighting infection and microbes
Hot spots and skin infections cause major irritation and discomfort in dogs. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, CBD may help reduce infection-causing bacteria, yeasts, and fungi on the skin. Research shows CBD has potent activity against antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA. It makes CBD potentially useful in treating recurring skin infections caused by bacteria or fungi.
- Calming anxiety and stress
Anxiety takes a major toll on your dog’s health and behavior. It even worsens skin conditions like acral lick dermatitis and alopecia. By interacting with serotonin receptors, CBD helps reduce anxiety levels and compulsive behaviors like excessive licking, biting, and scratching. It gives hot spots and irritated skin a chance to heal. In one study, CBD was effective in decreasing stress and discomfort during car rides for dogs with anxiety.
- Supporting the immune system
A weakened immune system makes your dog more prone to allergens, infections, and skin conditions like eczema. The antioxidants and nutrients in CBD support the immune system to help keep minor skin issues from escalating. CBD may also regulate immune system activity to reduce overreactions to allergens.
- CBD oil to dogs for skin and coat health
CBD oil comes in bottles with a dropper built into the lid. This allows you to control the dose you give your dog. It’s important to talk to your vet about an appropriate dosage based on your dog’s weight, age, and health status. Start with the lowest recommended dose and gradually increase over a week if needed.
- Place drops directly into the mouth past the teeth and gums.
- Mix drops into your dog’s food or treats. Make sure they eat all the food to get the full dose.
- For picky eaters, try rubbing CBD oil into the inside flap of the ear. Do not get it in the ear canal.
- You also mix CBD oil into a small amount of cream cheese, peanut butter, broth, or other food your dog loves.
- CBD pet sprays make it easy to spray directly onto your dog’s food or mouth.
Monitor your dog after giving CBD oil. Look for any changes in their behavior, appetite, or bowel movements. Keep an eye on the skin and coat condition and adjust the dose as needed. It may take a few weeks to see noticeable improvement. Be patient and stick with the regimen.
