Introduction

If your dog is experiencing vomiting or gastrointestinal problems, there could be various causes behind these digestive disturbances. While some of these issues may be resolved with medication, others might require comprehensive veterinary treatment.

CBD is known to often aid in soothing your dog's stomach and reducing their nausea. Digestive problems can impact your beloved dog at any time, leading to symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, shock, diarrhea, vomiting, or regurgitation. These digestive disorders are often a primary reason for visits to the veterinarian.

Currently, CBD, known as a nutraceutical, might offer some relief for your dog's digestive troubles, including diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation.

It's usually straightforward to identify digestive disorders in dogs, with common symptoms being diarrhea and vomiting. Being aware of the prevalent digestive issues in dogs and the potential effectiveness of CBD can be useful when your pet faces such challenges.

Common Dog’s Digestive Issues

Bloat (Gastro Dilation and Volvulus - GDV)

Common in large, deep-chested breeds.
Occurs when the stomach flips and expands, often after rapid eating followed by intense activity.

Symptoms: Vomiting, difficulty breathing, and restlessness.
This is a critical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention to save the dog's life.

Kidney Failure

More common in older dogs.
Kidneys fail to function effectively, leading to symptoms like increased thirst and urination, vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite.

Diagnosis involves bloodwork, and treatment may include medications and supplements to support kidney function.

Liver Failure

Can occur due to age or ingestion of toxic substances.
Symptoms: Vomiting, yellowish discoloration of the skin, ears, and gums (jaundice).

Immediate veterinary care is necessary to address liver issues.

Heat Stroke

Caused by excessive exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms include vomiting, panting, and lethargy.

Urgent veterinary treatment is required to prevent long-term damage or fatality.

Diet Change

Sudden changes in diet can upset a dog's stomach, leading to temporary vomiting. Gradually introducing new food can help mitigate this issue.

Parasites

Motion Sickness

Dogs may experience nausea and vomiting during car rides.
Symptoms include drooling and vomiting.
Medications can be prescribed by a vet to manage this condition.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, often triggered by overeating or consuming fatty foods.

Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, and lethargy.
Blood tests can diagnose pancreatitis, and treatment typically includes a bland diet and medication.

Foreign Object Ingestion

Dogs may ingest inappropriate items (like socks, underwear), causing obstruction. Symptoms include vomiting, inability to eat, and abdominal pain.

Radiographs are used for diagnosis, and surgery may be needed to remove the object.

Toxic Ingestion

Ingestion of toxic substances (plants, bugs, medications) can lead to vomiting and other severe symptoms.

Immediate veterinary attention is crucial for treatment and recovery.
In all these scenarios, prompt veterinary consultation is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment, ensuring the health and wellbeing of your dog.

Signs that Your Dog Might Have Digestive Problems

There are several symptoms that can suggest your dog is experiencing digestive issues. These common indicators often necessitate a visit to the veterinarian:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite
• Lethargy and general weakness
• Signs of dehydration, such as darker urine and increased thirst
• Excessive drooling and dry heaving

If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it's important to consult with your vet. They can prescribe medications to alleviate vomiting and nausea, and address any underlying digestive problems your dog might be facing.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD oil, short for cannabidiol oil, is derived from hemp plants.
It's important to note that CBD is distinct from THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound in marijuana that causes a euphoric state.

Unlike THC, CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects. Instead, CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which plays a crucial role in regulating a variety of bodily functions and responses.

The endocannabinoid system is a complex cell-signaling system identified in the early 1990s by researchers exploring THC. It's involved in regulating a range of functions and processes, including sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and reproduction and fertility.

CBD's interaction with this system produces various effects on the body, both mental and physical, and has been used to treat a wide array of health issues.

When selecting CBD products for dogs, it’s recommended to look for products that utilize CO2 extraction methods. This method is known for producing the highest quality oils, as it effectively extracts CBD in a way that preserves its purity and potency. This is particularly important for ensuring that the CBD product is safe and effective for your pet.

The potential benefits of CBD for dogs are vast and include:

Reducing Joint Inflammation: CBD may help alleviate the symptoms of conditions like arthritis, improving mobility and comfort.

Decreasing Anxiety and Depression: CBD is known for its calming effects, which can be beneficial for dogs with anxiety, phobias, or stress-related disorders.

Increasing Appetite: CBD might stimulate appetite, which can be particularly useful for dogs suffering from certain health conditions or those undergoing treatments that affect their eating habits.

Relieving Itching from Allergic Reactions: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce skin irritation and itching caused by allergies.

Potential Cancer Treatment: There is ongoing research into CBD’s effectiveness in treating cancer or alleviating cancer treatment symptoms in dogs.

It's crucial, however, to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new supplement or treatment, including CBD, especially to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure it won't interact with any existing medications or health conditions your dog may have.

Can CBD Oil Help with Dog Digestive Issues?

CBD oil, with its various therapeutic properties, can indeed be beneficial for dogs experiencing digestive issues. Here's a more detailed look at how CBD oil can aid in this context:

Pain and Inflammation Reduction in the Intestines

CBD has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs suffering from conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other forms of intestinal inflammation. By reducing inflammation, CBD can alleviate pain and discomfort in the digestive tract.

Anxiety and Stress Relief

Many dogs experience stress-related digestive issues, such as stress diarrhea. CBD is known for its calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs. By promoting a more relaxed state, CBD can indirectly aid in improving digestive function.

Muscle Relaxation and Improved Digestion

As a muscle relaxant, CBD can help in easing the movement of the digestive tract, thereby aiding in the digestion process. This can be particularly helpful for dogs that may have spasms or discomfort in their gastrointestinal tract.

Stimulation of Appetite

CBD is known to stimulate appetite, which can be a significant benefit for dogs that are experiencing reduced appetite due to digestive discomfort or other underlying health issues.

Holistic Benefits

Beyond aiding digestion, CBD oil offers a range of other potential health benefits for dogs. These include pain relief (particularly in cases of arthritis or joint pain), seizure control, and general wellness support.

However, it’s important to note that while CBD can be a helpful supplement for managing digestive issues and other health concerns, it should not replace professional veterinary care. If your dog is experiencing persistent or severe digestive problems, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

Additionally, when choosing CBD products for your dog, it’s essential to opt for high-quality products specifically formulated for pets, with proper dosing instructions and certification (such as a Certificate of Analysis).

2018 Study Demonstrating CBD Oil for
Nausea & Loss of Appetite

A 2018 research study highlighted the effectiveness of cannabidiol (CBD) in countering nausea. According to EurekAlert, the study found an increase in serotonin levels in the rat interoceptive insular cortex (IIC) — a brain region associated with nausea in humans — after administering lithium chloride, a compound known to induce nausea.

This rise in serotonin and the associated gaping behavior in rodents (a response to flavors linked with nausea-inducing treatments) was inhibited by CBD, which lacks the psychoactive component of recreational marijuana.

Further, the study indicated that treating with a drug that boosts the endogenous cannabinoid, 2-AG, also blocked the increase of serotonin in the IIC by activating the cannabinoid type 1 receptor.

This points to the role of the endocannabinoid system and the release of serotonin in the IIC in the sensation of nausea, suggesting new areas for therapeutic research.

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates endocrine processes in the body. By activating receptors in the brain and body, CBD influences the endocrine system, a network of tissues that releases hormones into the bloodstream to affect various parts of the dog's body.

CBD Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a complex system in dogs where certain hormones impact specific tissues, while others have a more widespread effect on the body.

In dogs with decreased appetite, CBD can stimulate the ECS, effectively boosting their appetite. By acting on endocannabinoid receptors, CBD regulates neural transmissions without the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana.

Hemp-derived CBD for pets includes phyto-cannabinoids, terpenes, and fatty acids, which are beneficial for a variety of conditions such as phobias, anxiety, joint pain, inflammation, digestive issues, mobility challenges, seizures, and anxiety.

Current research suggests that CBD for pets offers several potential benefits that may surpass those of traditional medications in some cases.

CBD & Seizures 

In a 2019 clinical trial conducted by Dr. Stephanie McGrath and published on PubMed, it was found that dogs receiving CBD experienced a notable median reduction of 33% in seizure frequency compared to those given a placebo.

However, the number of dogs experiencing a significant decrease in seizures (50% or more) was comparable in both the CBD and placebo groups. The study also observed that higher levels of CBD in the blood were linked to reduced seizure activity.

Additionally, dogs in the CBD group showed an increase in serum alkaline phosphatase activity, a liver enzyme. No negative behavioral effects were reported by the owners.

The research suggests the need for further studies to explore if higher doses of CBD could more effectively reduce seizure occurrences in dogs by at least 50%.

It's crucial to first seek advice from your veterinarian if your dog displays symptoms of illness. Certain digestive problems in dogs, such as poisoning, bloat, pancreatitis, liver or kidney failure, or obstructions in the gut or stomach, can be severe and require professional medical attention. Remember that CBD is not a substitute for veterinary care or treatment.

Gut Health & The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in dogs consists of a network of receptors, specialized proteins, and neurotransmitters that collectively regulate various bodily functions.

This system plays a key role in controlling gastrointestinal motility in dogs. Moreover, studies have shown that cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in enhancing gastrointestinal motility by reducing inflammation and facilitating the normal functioning of the digestive tract.

CBD as an Antibiotic 

A 2019 study by the University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience, conducted by Dr. Blaskovich and his team in collaboration with Botanix Pharmaceuticals LTD and published in the American Society of Microbiology, revealed that cannabidiol (CBD) is effective against gram-positive bacteria.

This includes bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, exhibiting effectiveness comparable to established antibiotics like vancomycin or daptomycin. As a result, CBD is currently being explored for its potential use as an antibiotic.

This includes bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, exhibiting effectiveness comparable to established antibiotics like vancomycin or daptomycin. As a result, CBD is currently being explored for its potential use as an antibiotic.

CBD for Inflammation Reduction in Dogs 

Conclusion

CBD oil, in tandem with the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), is beneficial for maintaining gut health in dogs. When selecting a CBD tincture as a digestive aid for your canine companion, ensure that it is organic, specifically tailored for pets, and provides clear dosing guidelines along with a certificate of analysis (COA).

CBD is known to aid in conditions like Irritable Bowel Disease, gastritis, food allergies, and other stomach-related issues, and may also be effective against parasites and infections, although research is ongoing.

High-quality CBD oil can potentially lessen the side effects of traditional veterinary medications, making your dog more comfortable during treatment.

CBD can help stimulate appetite and bolster a weakened immune system in dogs. It's also useful for alleviating stress and pain associated with an upset stomach, whether through tinctures or treats.

However, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment options. Given the wide range of health benefits attributed to CBD pet products, from anxiety and pain relief to seizure control and possibly even cancer support, choosing the right product can be overwhelming.

It’s advisable to speak with a holistic veterinarian about using hemp-derived pet products and to determine the appropriate dosage and potency for your dog's specific health concerns.