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Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
When night falls and thunder sounds, many dogs go into panic mode. The signs include shaking, heavy panting and destructive hiding.
The nervous system of your pet is in a high state of alertness when this happens.
Unfortunately, many dogs are treated with heavy sedatives from their veterinarian, which could keep your puppy “drugged” for a long period of time.
However, CBD oil is an alternative to combating a dog’s fears without the drowsiness. We have witnessed the difference using CBD correctly can make, so let’s find out more.
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How CBD Oil Calms a Panicked Dog
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant. It works by interacting with your dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for maintaining balance in the body.
1. Modulating the Stress Response
During a thunderstorm, a dog’s brain is flooded with cortisol and adrenaline. CBD helps modulate the receptors in the brain that process fear and anxiety, effectively “lowering the volume” on the panic signals. This allows the dog to remain aware of their surroundings without the overwhelming physical symptoms of terror.
2. Reducing Noise Phobia Sensitivity
Many dogs are hypersensitive to the low-frequency vibrations of thunder. CBD has mild analgesic and calming properties that help stabilize the nervous system, making these external stimuli feel less threatening.
3. Promoting Relaxation Without Sedation
Unlike traditional anti-anxiety medications that often function as muscle relaxants or sedatives, high-quality CBD oil promotes a state of “alert calm.” Your dog will feel relaxed and comfortable but will still be able to interact with you and move normally.
How to Dose CBD Oil for Thunderstorms
For the best results during a storm, timing and quality are everything.
- The “Pre-Storm” Dose: CBD takes about 30 to 45 minutes to enter the bloodstream. Watch the weather report and administer the oil before the first thunder clap.
- Apply Directly to Gums: For the fastest absorption, use a dropper to apply the oil directly to your dog’s gums or under their tongue. This bypasses the digestive tract and gets the CBD into the system much quicker than hiding it in a treat.
- Start Low and Slow: A general starting dose is 1mg to 5mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of body weight. Every dog is different, so start with a small dose and observe their reaction during a mild rain before a major storm hits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will CBD oil make my dog “high”?
No. Quality CBD oil for dogs contains zero (or less than 0.3%) THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana. Your dog will not experience any “high” or altered state of mind beyond feeling relaxed.
What is the difference between Hemp Seed Oil and CBD Oil?
This is a common mistake! Hemp seed oil is great for skin and coat, but it contains zero CBD and will not help with anxiety. Always ensure the label specifies “Full Spectrum CBD” or “Broad Spectrum CBD.”
Can I give my dog CBD every day?
Yes. For dogs with chronic separation anxiety or noise phobia, a daily maintenance dose can help keep their baseline stress levels lower.
Are there any side effects?
The most common side effects are mild lethargy or increased thirst. If your dog seems excessively sleepy, reduce the dose by half next time.
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Wrap Up
Thunderstorms don’t have to be a traumatic experience for your dog. By utilizing high-quality CBD oil to support their endocannabinoid system, you can provide natural, fast-acting relief from noise phobias and panic attacks. Keep a bottle in your canine first-aid kit so you’re always ready for the next storm.
