When a dog won’t eat, most pet owners begin to worry about something wrong. It’s for good reason because let us be honest – dogs love to eat. Dogs that don’t love to eat or don’t feel like eating for some other reason may need help to stimulate their appetite. CBD for dogs to increase appetite is effective.
Why a Dog Doesn’t Eat
A dog may not be eating food for a few reasons. The following are some of the most common reasons a dog may not eat:
- Illness
- Stress
- Medication Side Effects
There are many illnesses that could disrupt a dog’s appetite. Some of these illnesses include:
- Cancer
- Infection
- Pain
- Liver Disease
- Kidney Disease
- Dental Disease
- Dental Problems
Besides illnesses, a dog might not be eating because of anxiety, disliking the food, or age. Older dogs do not eat as much as younger dogs, so consider age if your dog is eating some food, just not as much as before.
CBD for Dogs to Increase Appetite: How It Works
Humans and canines have similar bodily systems. This includes how the bodies use CBD to improve the efficiency of organs.
Researchers in the mid-1980s discovered the endocannabinoid system as they were studying what cannabidiol (CBD) does in the body. They found that CBD binds to cannabinoid receptors, which then help the endocannabinoid system function optimally.
Since the endocannabinoid system has such a big influence in helping organs function efficiently and effectively, the researchers discovered that CBD was a big asset to the body.
Through further studies as it relates to the appetites of dogs, the National Cancer Institute found that CBD increases appetite. Other studies have found that it is highly effective in relieving vomiting and nausea when they are due to toxins or drugs.
Other Benefits of CBD for Dogs
There are many other health benefits of CBD for dogs. Check them out:
- Reduce Anxiety
- Calm Hyperactive Behavior
- Help Separation Anxiety
- Reduce and Prevent Inflammation
- Relieve Arthritis
- Ease Joint Pain and Chronic Pain
- Prevent and Treat Dog Allergies
- Reduce and Prevent Seizures
- Lower the Risk of Cancer
Not only do dog owners gain the benefits of helping their pup eat better for increased nutrition, but they also get all of the above benefits and more.
FAQ About CBD for Dogs to Increase Appetite
The following questions are ones that dog owners often ask when considering CBD for their dog’s appetite.
Can CBD help my dog gain weight?
Yes, CBD can help your dog gain weight. With the increase in appetite from CBD, your dog will likely consume more calories than spent, which results in weight gain.
What are common appetite stimulates for dogs?
Most veterinarians’ first course of action for a dog with a lack of appetite is prescribing medications, such as mirtazapine, meclizine, or ghrelin receptor agonist.
Mirtazapine
This is a common drug prescribed to dogs with a decreased appetite due to kidney disease, cancer, or other medications such as chemotherapy. Mirtazapine acts on the central nervous system and serotonin levels (much like CBD does).
Meclizine
Meclizine is an antihistamine known to reduce nausea. If a dog isn’t eating because of nausea, this medication could help return the dog’s appetite.
Ghrelin Receptor Agonist
Ghrelin is a hormone that makes humans and canines feel hungry. When there isn’t enough of that hormone, that hungry sensation is reduced. A ghrelin receptor agonist can increase the production of the hormone to increase feelings of hunger and then appetite.
What to Expect When You Give CBD as an Appetite Stimulant for Dogs
It can take about an hour for a dog to start to feel the effects of CBD. The effectiveness of the dose peaks around 4-8 hours, so that’s usually when most dog parents see a difference in appetite.
Is CBD Good for Dogs Every Day?
Yes, you can give your dog CBD every day. It is a natural supplement, so it is safe for daily use. Even after your dog’s appetite returns, you can continue to give him a dose every day to benefit from the other amazing effects.
Do not worry about overdosing your dog on CBD. Learn more about that here: Can Too Much CBD Kill a Dog?
How to Give CBD for Dogs to Increase Appetite
One of the most common questions from dog owners who give their pup CBD as an appetite stimulant for dogs is how to administer it. Some dogs are easy because they let their owners drop the oil into their mouths. Other dogs, well, they aren’t as easy.
To help you easily administer CBD oil to your dog, we’ve come up with these tips: How to Give a Dog CBD Oil
The Best CBD Oil for Dog’s Appetite
When shopping for CBD dog products, it’s highly important to choose high-quality ones and the type of CBD you agree with for your pup. CBD oil comes in three types:
Full-Spectrum CBD Oil
This type of CBD is made from the entire hemp plant (flower and buds). Since it includes all the compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids), it also has a small amount of THC. This is a very small amount of THC (just .3%) so it has no psychoactive effects whatsoever. In other words, your pup will not feel “high” on it.
Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil
This CBD is made from the whole hemp plant. It has all of the compounds that full-spectrum CBD has but 0 THC. It’s perfect for pet owners who don’t feel good about giving their pets any THC. The benefits of increasing appetite, and relieving chronic pain and joint pain are all the same.
Isolate CBD Oil
Isolate CBD is pure CBD. It only has CBD in it – no other compounds from the hemp plants.
What is the best CBD oil to increase your dog’s appetite? It depends on the dog, of course. Full-Spectrum CBD has all the compounds, which researchers say may be more effective due to an “entourage effect” but they don’t say it’s a huge difference in effectiveness.
Types of CBD for Dogs to Increase Appetite
Not only do you have options with what type of CBD oil, but you have options when it comes to CBD products.
- CBD Oil – CBD Tinctures
- CBD Dog Treats
- CBD Capsules
Pet owners prefer CBD oil (CBD tinctures) and CBD dog treats over CBD capsules because it’s easier. Most dogs don’t enjoy capsules so unless they are put into a pill pocket or piece of meat, it’s not easy for a dog to get them down.
CBD oil can be placed in peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or even golden paste for dogs. Some people can put CBD oil in food or water.
CBD dog treats are even easier because these pet products come in great flavors like bacon, beef, steak, chicken, and more.
Quality Standards for CBD Products
When shopping for pet products, especially natural supplements, you should always look for organic ones. In this case, organic hemp plants are the best for CBD products. Also, look for non-GMO which means it hasn’t been genetically modified, so it’s pure.
Research the company that produces the supplements. That will help you feel confident in what they sell and what you’re giving your furry friend.
Dog Ownership Guide recommends the following brands of CBD for dog appetite.
You can read about each one by clicking the links above.
CBD for Dogs to Increase Appetite and Many Other Benefits
You can use CBD for dog appetite and many other health benefits. Please speak to your vet before starting any new supplement to ensure it is right for your pup.
Learn more: How to Give a Dog CBD Oil
