Hemp for Dogs - Everything You Need to Know

Hemp for Dogs - Everything You Need to Know
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By now, you've heard of the benefits of hemp for dogs. In fact, that's probably why you're here! Hemp products contain CBD, a compound that interacts with the internal endocannabinoid system (ECS). Since all dogs have endocannabinoid systems just like us, CBD can affect them as well. Hemp products are in pet stores nationwide, but what product is right for your dog? Some contain hemp seed oil, hemp powder, CBD hemp oil, or a combination of these for dogs. Before we get into the possible benefits of hemp, let's discuss what it is, what types there are, and their differences. 

 

What is Hemp?

People often connect hemp to marijuana, but they are very different. Hemp is a strain of cannabis that is grown without psychoactive properties. Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is the cannabinoid in cannabis that gives users a "high." In 2018, the Farm Bill federally legalized hemp that contains up to 0.3% THC. This limit makes it is virtually impossible for users to experience any psychoactive effects from the product. 

 

Hemp is a miracle plant that can be used for several things. Besides being a nutritional powerhouse, hemp can be utilized as a viable eco-friendly source to make a variety of commercial and industrial products. For instance, hemp can be used to create a biodegradable water bottle, replacing plastic products that cause pollution. Hemp can be used to create clothing, textiles, shoes, biofuel, rope, and food as well. 

 

While hemp barely contains any THC, it can be produced with large quantities of Cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid in hemp. When the Farm Bill passed in 2018, the CBD market expanded greatly. Now, consumers can find a variety of human and pet CBD products that are intended to help promote general wellness.

 

hemp plant against white background

 

What Hemp Products Can Benefit Dogs? 

Hemp is full of vitamins, minerals, and more for dogs. You will be amazed by how much your dog can benefit from hemp. To start with, there are several hemp products that can benefit dogs, including hemp protein powder, hemp seed oil, and CBD hemp oil. Each one of these has its own beneficial profile which we will explain.

 

Many pet products already use hemp powder or hemp seed oil as an ingredient because of the nutrition value each contains. CBD hemp oil contains CBD, which is relatively new to pet products, thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill. Much like us humans, dogs can also benefit from the use of CBD. CBD is special because it can interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which keeps many functions in the body balanced. The ECS maintains homeostasis throughout the body by producing its own cannabinoids.

 

All mammals have an ECS and it is integral in regulating several important functions including mood, sleep, soreness, inflammation, the digestive system, and more. CBD may assist the functionality of the ECS. Let's examine what hemp products contain in general and which ones have CBD and which ones don't.  

 

Hemp Protein Powder for Dogs

Hemp protein comes from the seeds of the hemp plant. Although CBD comes from hemp there is no CBD in hemp powder because the seeds do not contain CBD. The seeds do not contain THC either, because the seeds don't produce any cannabinoids. However that doesn't mean hemp powder has nothing beneficial to offer, it's actually quite the opposite.

 

First of all, hemp protein powder is easy to digest and it may help aid digestion because it contains healthy fiber. Plus, did you know that hemp powder is a complete protein because it actually contains all 9 of the essential amino acids? Its true hemp powder also contains the ideal 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids.

 

Omega 3 and Omega 6 are known to fight depression and anxiety, regulate inflammation, reduce the risk of macular degeneration, improve risk factors associated with heart disease, reduce symptoms of metabolic disease, and reduce the risk of some autoimmune disorders.

 

Hemp powder also contains powerful antioxidants to benefit dogs in a number of ways including coat and skin health, strengthened immune system, and increased energy.

 

Hemp Seed Oil for Dogs

As you can guess, hemp seed oil also comes from the seeds of the hemp plant. Like hemp powder, hemp seed oil does not contain any CBD or THC. It does, however, contain many beneficial properties similar to hemp powder. 

 

This oil is known for its skin benefits due to its high concentration of antioxidants and various essential fatty acids.  These components may help alleviate dry skin, some skin irritations, coat deterioration, and more. Hemp seed oil contains nutrients such as linoleic acid that facilitate skin cell generation and repair.

 

One study found that the abundance of oils and fatty acids in hemp seed oil is excellent for nourishing the skin and guarding it against inflammation and oxidation. Many of these same nutrients provide anti-aging properties.

 

hemp oil on wooden table

 

 

CBD Hemp Oil for Dogs

CBD hemp oil for dogs is different than hemp powder or hemp seed oil because it doesn't come from the seeds of the plant. Instead, CBD hemp oil comes from the flowers and leaves of the cannabis plant where cannabinoids form in dense concentrations. CBD hemp oil may help encourage overall homeostasis for your pet because, as we mentioned, CBD interacts with your dog's ECS.

 

CBD hemp oil is the only one of these hemp variations that truly contains all the properties of the hemp plant. Hemp seed powder and hemp seed oil do not contain any cannabinoids. CBD oil, on the other hand, is rich with cannabinoids. Plus it also contains much of the same nutritional value as hemp powder and hemp seed oil.

 

 

How to use Hemp for Dogs

Depending on which product you are using, there are various different methods on how to apply CBD products. Each variation of hemp can offer different benefits, so it all depends on what you as the owner are looking to accomplish.

 

We recommend giving your dog all the benefits that hemp has to offer. The best way to accomplish this is by giving them CBD oil for dogs or a CBD product made for dogs.

 

Remember these products will contain all the properties of the plant. If you give them only hemp seed oil or hemp protein powder they will not receive any beneficial cannabinoids, like CBD, because cannabinoids do not form in the seeds. Here are some examples of products for dogs which contain CBD oil:

 

holistapet cbd oil CBD Oil for Dogs 

CBD hemp oil for dogs should be ingested for the best effect. While topical use is popular as well, ingesting CBD oil so that it can interact directly with your dog's ECS can offer the most benefits.

 

HolistaPet Hemp Oil for Dogs & Cats is made by combining premium hemp seed oil and CBD hemp oil together. With this combination, your dog will get all the plant has to offer from the seeds, flowers, and leaves.

 

Usually, CBD oil for dogs comes in an easy-to-use dropper bottle. Owners can easily drop the oil directly into their pet's mouth, or they can add it to food or water.

 

If you have a picky dog or just want to switch things up here are some other suggestions you can use to entice your dog with CBD oil. 

holistapet cbd capsules CBD Capsules for Dogs

CBD hemp capsules must be ingested. HolistaPet Hemp Capsules for Pets combines CBD and hemp seed powder to give your dog the maximum benefits hemp has to offer. Like CBD oil, the capsules also interact with the ECS.

They’re packed with Omega fats, antioxidants, proteins, and CBD. Owners may choose capsules over the oil because of convenience or personal preference. 

holistapet cbd dog treatsCBD Dog Treats

Dogs love treats, so why not feed them a healthy hemp snack with a dose of CBD? All of our treats include CBD hemp oil, hemp protein powder, and hemp seed oil. Plus, these treats also contain healthy superfoods that are very beneficial for dogs like blueberries, flaxseed, and more.

 

Depending on what owners' intentions are, there are different types of treats available. HolistaPet Hemp Dog Treats come in three varieties: Stress & Anxiety Relief, Joint & Mobility Care, and Heart & Immune Care. 

Heart & Immune Care

Dogs love these blueberry and sweet potato treats. They contain healthy, all-natural ingredients like blueberries, flaxseed, CBD, and sweet potato. Combined, these ingredients provide antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and protein that may help bolster the immune system. 

 

Joint & Mobility Care

Made with real pumpkin these treats also contain Tumeric root, Boswellia, and CBD. Combined, these ingredients may promote joint mobility or ease joint discomfort. 

 

Stress & Anxiety Relief

These delicious treats are made with organic applesauce and organic peanut butter. They contain L-Theanine, chamomile, and CBD. Combined, these ingredients may help to promote relaxation or reduce nervousness and fear.

 

CBD Dosage Guidelines

The dosage size for any of these CBD products listed above can be calculated by determining your dog's body mass and the severity of their condition. Dosing suggestions are clearly labeled on each package. You can find more information regarding CBD dosage on our CBD oil dosage for pets page.

 

Final Thoughts About Hemp for Dogs

Hemp is gaining popularity across the world for good reason. It lacks the psychoactive elements associated with cannabis but provides benefits that are more natural than synthetic drugs. CBD for your dog can come in many forms, including tinctures, topical oils, and edibles. Each has its own benefits, and it's up to the owner to decide how to proceed with giving their pet CBD.

 

Although millions of Americans have found hemp to be useful, please speak with your vet before adding CBD to your pet's diet. Most importantly, since the CBD industry is largely unregulated, owners should make sure they are only purchasing from reputable brands. HolistaPet products are always lab-tested and we have the COAs for anyone to see. We are proud of our products and only use 100% natural ingredients that are organic, vegan, non-GMO, Gluten-free, and Dairy-free! Looking for more guides about dog care? Here are some great resources for you to learn from.

 

Interesting Read: How Drug Sniffing Dogs Are Being Trained To Ignore Marijuana

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