Hemp oil is a remarkable supplement that has become popular in recent years, especially for dogs. Derived from the hemp plant, it is rich in omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids and has high levels of proteins, amino acids, and cannabinoids.
These components offer a range of benefits for dogs, from reducing anxiety to promoting overall health. It is important, however, to differentiate between hemp oil and CBD oil for dogs, as they are not the same.
Onset of Effects
The time it takes for hemp oil to show its full effects depends on the condition being treated.
For instance, when using hemp oil to treat pain, it usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes to see the effects of pain reduction.
However, when used for puppies with anxiety, the oil generally takes, on average, between 20 to 60 minutes to take full effect1.
How Quickly Does Hemp Oil Work for Dogs?
Think of hemp oil as a helpful tool that kicks in at different speeds depending on what job you’re asking it to do. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Time it Takes to Work: Generally, it takes about 30 minutes for hemp oil to start working on your dog.
- Why the Time Varies: Not all dogs are the same! So, the bigger the dog, the more time it might take. Also, different dog breeds might react differently.
- Purpose Matters: If you’re using the oil to help your dog feel less anxious, plan on about 30 to 60 minutes before you see them start to chill out. If it’s for something like joint pain, you could notice changes in as little as 15 to 30 minutes.
- For Best Results: Just like taking a vitamin doesn’t make you instantly healthy, hemp oil is most effective when used regularly. For the biggest improvements, try giving it to your pet every day for 2 to 4 weeks.
In simple terms, hemp oil doesn’t work instantly but it does work fairly quickly. You’ll see different results based on what you’re using it for and what kind of dog you have.
To answer the question:
Hemp oil generally takes between 15 to 60 minutes to exhibit its full effects on dogs, depending on the purpose of use and the dog’s weight and breed. For long-term benefits, daily usage for 2 to 4 weeks is recommended.
Potential Side Effects and Safety
When considering hemp oil as a supplement for dogs, it’s essential to understand both its benefits and drawbacks.
Even though it’s largely considered safe, potential side effects such as extreme sleepiness and diarrhea can occur and should not be overlooked.
List of Potential Side Effects
- Extreme Sleepiness: Hemp oils, particularly those containing CBD, may lead to drowsiness in dogs. Always monitor your pet’s behavior after administering hemp oil.
- Diarrhea: Dietary changes or new supplements can cause diarrhea2. Start with a small dose and see how your dog reacts.
- Cannabidiol (CBD) and Toxicity: CBD is safe for dogs in the right dose. THC is unsafe for dogs to ingest, so be sure the product has less than 0.3 percent3.
- Lethal Overdoses: Lethal overdoses from CBD or hemp oil are virtually unheard of. However, excessive consumption can lead to negative side effects, requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
Ensuring Safe Usage
Hemp oil can benefit your dog, but use it cautiously and prioritize its health. Staying informed and consulting your vet can keep your pet safe and happy.
Hemp Oil vs. CBD Oil for Dogs:
To make an informed pet health decision, you must understand the distinctions between Hemp Oil and CBD Oil for dogs. Both derive from Cannabis sativa but have different effects.
| Attributes | Hemp Oil for Dogs | CBD Oil for Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Cannabis sativa plant | Cannabis sativa plant |
| Primary Benefits | Nutritional | Therapeutic |
| Key Components | Omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids | Cannabinoids |
| High levels of proteins and amino acids | ||
| Mechanism of Action | Nutritional enhancement | Regulates the endocannabinoid system |
| Health Benefits | General health improvement | Targets specific health issues such as separation anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, inflammation, and seizures |
| Combination with MCT Oil | Not commonly used | Increases absorption into the endocannabinoid system |
| Effect on Anxiety | Can provide mild calming effects | More potent in reducing anxiety or distress |
In summary, while hemp oil primarily offers nutritional benefits rich in fatty acids, proteins, and amino acids, CBD oil is more focused on regulating specific physiological systems and addressing specialized health concerns in dogs.
Selecting between the two will depend on the specific health needs of your dog.
Potential Benefits of Hemp Oil
- Relief from Anxiety: Hemp oil aids in reducing anxiety in dogs, thanks to its calming effect.
- Pain Management: It can relieve various types of pain, including neuropathic and osteoarthritis.
- Reduction in Inflammation: Thanks to its high content of omega fatty acids4, hemp oil plays a role in reducing inflammation.
- Appetite and Digestion: Hemp oil can improve appetite in dogs and reduce nausea.
Dosage
A standard dose of hemp oil ranges from 2mg/kg to 3mg/kg, administered once or twice per day5.
The form could be a tincture, soft chews, or other treats like hemp oil dog treats6. Note that the effects can vary by individual dog and potentially even by breed.
Conclusion
Hemp oil is an increasingly popular supplement that aids in calming effects, reducing anxiety, and relieving various types of pain, from neuropathic to osteoarthritis.
Its benefits are broad-ranging and can improve the overall health of your pet with minimal risk of side effects when administered correctly.
Always consult a veterinarian for personalized advice on incorporating hemp oil into your dog’s healthcare regimen
Remember:
No two dogs are alike, and responses can vary. Monitor the effects, adjust dosages as necessary, and ensure a consistent regimen for optimal results.
FAQs
Sources
- “Broad Spectrum Hemp Oil.” IHeartDogs.com, iheartdogs.com/broad-spectrum-hemp-oil/. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
- “Hemp Oil for Dogs: Benefits, Risks, and Dosage.” Can Dogs Eat It, www.candogseatit.com/blog/diet-recipes/hemp-oil-for-dogs. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
- —. “Hemp Oil for Dogs: Benefits and Uses.” Vetstreet, 3 Feb. 2021, www.vetstreet.com/food-and-treats/dog-supplements/hemp-oil-for-dogs. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
- National Institute of Health. “Office of Dietary Supplements – Omega-3 Fatty Acids.” Nih.gov, 2017, ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional/. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
- SitStay. “Hemp Oil Dog Dosage Guide.” SitStay, sitstay.com/blogs/good-dog-blog/hemp-oil-for-dogs-dosage-guide#toc_————Hemp-CBD-Oil-Offers-Analgesic-Effects-for-Dogs-with-Pain. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
- “How Much Hemp Oil Should I Give My Dog?” Pet Honesty, www.pethonesty.com/blogs/blog/how-much-hemp-oil-should-i-give-my-dog. Accessed 12 Sept. 2023. ↩︎
