Hemp oil is an all-natural dietary supplement that increases cognitive function, promotes digestive health, and works to keep your dog limber. Today, dog owners are able to find hemp oil in a variety of forms, whether it's in tincture bottles, soft chews, or even hemp dog treats that are tasty and delicious!
Together, the fatty acids and antioxidants offer a number of health benefits such as promoting healthy joints, aiding cognitive function, and even supporting a healthy digestive system. Because of this, many naturally-minded pet parents are incorporating hemp seed oil supplements to help aches and pains, and improve their dog’s digestive upsets.
If you are new to hemp oil, here are a few key facts about this incredible oil for dogs, including where you can find it and the recommended hemp oil dosage for your furry friend!
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp seed oil is nutrient-dense and contains essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Along with its high protein content, hemp oil is also a great source of tocopherols, which are vitamin E antioxidants. Numerous studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids promote natural inflammatory responses, promote heart health, and can help with dry skin and other skin irritations.
How Is It Made?
Hemp oil is made by cold pressing the leaves, stalks, and/or seeds of the hemp plant. Depending on which part of the plant is used determines which variation of hemp oil is produced. For example, hemp oil that is produced using the stalks and leaves of the hemp plant tend to be rich in natural chemicals that can be beneficial for the body.
How Much Should I Give My Dog?
As with any supplement you give to your dog, the dosage of these hemp products will be determined by age, weight, and potentially even by breed, according to SitStay. For example, if you are giving your dog hemp oil as a way of treating anxiety, the breed may determine the dosage. Breeds that tend to be a little more anxiety-prone like Collies and Chihuahuas may need a larger dose than a golden retriever.
When asking yourself, “ how much hemp oil should I give my dog?”, it is important to read carefully and closely follow the directions. Do not purchase hemp oil from an untrusted source and certainly do not administer any hemp oil if there are no directions for use.
According to Innovet, a standard dose of hemp oil for dogs is 1ml for every ten pounds of weight. Typically it is best to try the minimum dose for an extended period, about one or two weeks, to see how your dog is affected by hemp oil. If you don’t notice any difference in your dog’s demeanor after an extended period of use, you can increase the dosage by a small amount.
As with any new supplement, there will be an adjustment period for your dog. Results and reactions will vary, and if you notice any adverse allergic reactions or your dog’s behavior changes, stop administering the oil immediately and seek veterinary help.
Do I Have to Buy Dog-Specific Hemp Oil?
While you do not have to purchase pet-specific hemp products, your veterinarian will highly recommend purchasing at a trusted pet brand. The supplements you are giving your dog should be formulated and developed with him in mind, so it is recommended that you purchase your hemp oil from a source that focuses on the needs of your pet.
Typically hemp oil is best purchased for your pet in a brick and mortar store or from a trusted online source. Dog Dream reminds owners to look at the ingredients of the supplements you purchase to ensure that it contains real 100% hemp oil.
Can My Dog Overdose on Hemp Oil?
No, your dog cannot overdose on hemp oil. Hemp oil, by its nature,does not have any psychoactive effects, meaning there is no mind-altering substance in hemp or hemp seed oil that could lead to an overdose.
Hemp oil is an excellent addition to your dog’s diet and is proven to assist with cognitive, dietary, and physical health. If you have any questions about how hemp oil might interact with your dog specifically, ask your veterinarian. As loving pet owners, it’s safe to say that you want the very best for your dog. With hemp oil at your disposal, you owe it to him to give this superfood a shot!
Sources:https://dogdreamcbd.com/cbd-dosage-chart-for-dogs/
https://www.innovetpet.com/pages/cbd-dosing-calculator
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/cannabis-oil-dogs-everything-you-need-know
https://www.allthebestpetcare.com/pet-nutrition/cbd-dose-dog-cat/
https://sitstay.com/blogs/good-dog-blog/how-much-cbd-oil-should-i-give-my-dog
