Many dogs experience stress during separation from their caregivers or while traveling in cars. Pet owners often try various approaches to manage these issues, including training, medication, and supplements, with mixed success.

Can CBD Help Dogs Manage Stress?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is known to alleviate stress and anxiety in humans, but its effects on canine stress are less studied. A recent study aimed to examine the impact of separation and car travel on stress levels in dogs and to determine whether a single dose of THC-free CBD distillate could positively influence stress-related measures.

Stressful Situations for Dogs

Separation Stress

When dogs are socially isolated or separated from bonded individuals, they can develop separation-related behaviors. Separation anxiety is one of the most common stress-related issues in pet dogs, accounting for up to 50% of referrals to behavior specialists.

Stress During Car Rides

Traveling in a car is another frequent source of stress for dogs, potentially leading to negative emotional states. Most dogs will experience car travel during their lives, with frequency influenced by their owner’s lifestyle, demographics, and proximity to parks, vets, or groomers.

CBD as a Stress Intervention

CBD, a natural compound derived from the cannabis plant, is gaining popularity as an intervention for stress. Through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain and inflammation, CBD has shown promising benefits for both humans and animals.

Study Findings

The study revealed significant changes in stress-related measures during separation and car travel, with car rides eliciting a more pronounced overall stress response. The effect of CBD varied across measures, but there were indications of a significant reduction in stress for dogs in the CBD-treated group compared to the placebo group.

Conclusion

While more research is needed to fully understand CBD’s effects on canine well-being, this study provides valuable insights into how separation and car travel impact stress levels in dogs. It also highlights the potential of CBD as a tool to support dogs in stressful situations. By further exploring these mechanisms, we can better care for our four-legged companions and enhance their quality of life.

Read more about the study: National Library of Medicine