Hemp seed oil has gained attention in recent years for its numerous health benefits, not just for humans, but also for our canine companions. In this article, we will explore what hemp oil is, its potential benefits, various uses, safety considerations, and its legal status for dogs.
What is Hemp Seed Oil?
Although cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp seed oil are both derived from the hemp plant, they are different in terms of their composition, uses and legal status. Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant and contains little to no CBD or THC. Instead, it is rich in a number of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6. CBD, on the other hand, is extracted from the leaves, flowers, and stalks of the hemp plant. It is also a non-psychoactive compound, but can contain trace amounts of THC (less than 0.2% to be legal in the UK), the psychoactive compound found in the hemp plant.
In the UK, CBD products made for pets are not legal. However, a veterinarian can prescribe “human” CBD for your pet and suggest a dosage after an assessment. Hemp products for pets, on the other hand, are legal.
While it is thought that CBD oil interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to help regulate various physiological processes, such as pain perception, immune function, mood and inflammation, hemp seed oil does not interact with the endocannabinoid system in the same way. Instead, hemp seed oil is rich in nutrients and compounds that are thought to provide some of the same wellness benefits for dogs.
Benefits of Hemp Oil for Dogs
Hemp seed oil is rich in nutrients and compounds that offer several potential benefits for dogs, including reducing inflammation, boosting immune health, supporting digestive function, and improving skin and coat health.
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an ideal ratio for dogs. The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp oil have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help to alleviate inflammation associated with conditions like allergies and arthritis. Indeed, researchers in the Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatology found that Gamma Linoleic Acid (GLA) found in hemp seeds reduced arthritis symptoms by 25% compared to placebo at 4% in human participants.
2. Immune Health
Hemp oil is rich in antioxidants which are important for immunity, disease prevention, cell renewal and organ function. Thus, it can help to fight harmful free radicals, and support your dog’s overall immune function and response. In one study on dietary supplementation of hemp oil, it was found that hemp oil had a positive impact on nutrient digestibility and blood metabolism, immunity and antioxidant capacity in teddy dogs.
3. Gut & Digestive Health
Hemp seed oil is gentle on the digestive system which makes it ideal for dogs who struggle to extract all the essential nutrients from other parts of their diet. In addition to this, because of its anti-inflammatory properties, hemp seed oil can help with digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
4. Skin & Coat Health
Hemp seed oil is rich in fatty acids which nourish your dog’s skin from within. This reduces itching, flakiness and dryness, and promotes an overall healthier and shinier coat. In fact, many dog shampoos and conditioners contain hemp seed oil for this reason.
The essential fatty acids in the hemp seed oil can also help to prevent uncomfortable skin conditions, such as dermatitis, eczema, dandruff and dry nose.
5. Joint Health
As dogs get older, they might experience joint discomfort, stiffness, and a reduced range of movement. Hemp seed oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce pain and improve joint function, offering your dog greater flexibility and comfort. Although this isn’t a cure for the pain caused by joint issues and arthritis, it can improve your dog’s quality of life.
6. Heart Health
The omega fatty acids in hemp seed oil support cardiovascular health in dogs, such as reducing inflammation and helping to protect against irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia). This can help reduce the risk of heart disease, maintain healthy blood pressure levels, and support proper circulation for your beloved canine.
7. Stress & Anxiety Relief
A 2019 study found that hemp oil has a calming effect on human’s central nervous system. After assessing the effect of hemp oil on 72 people with an anxiety or sleep disorder, researchers found it reduced anxiety in 79.2% of the study participants. Although there is limited research on how this translates to dogs, anecdotal reports suggest that hemp seed oil can help to promote a similar sense of calm and relaxation in dogs.
The potential benefits of hemp oil for dogs mean it can be an effective natural aid for a number of different ailments and conditions.
Is Hemp Oil Safe for Dogs?
While hemp oil is generally considered safe for dogs, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind.
1. Consult Your Veterinarian
Before giving your dog any new supplement, you should consult with your veterinarian .They can provide guidance on the right dose for your dog’s breed, age and size, and ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s specific needs.
2. High-Quality & Reputable Brand
Ensure you purchase high-quality, reputable hemp oil products that are specifically made for dogs. You should look for products that are third-party tested for purity and potency, so you know exactly what your dogs are going to consume.
3. Dosage
Follow the recommended dosage guidelines provided on the product label or as advised by your veterinarian. Research has shown that Cannabidiol (CBD) is not toxic for pets, and that it is generally very unlikely that your pet will overdose on CBD. However, large doses might cause unpleasant side effects, such as nausea or diarrhoea.
4. Potential Side Effects
While rare, some dogs may experience mild side effects after consuming hemp seed oil. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your vet.
How to Use Hemp Oil for Dogs
As well as the oil itself, you can purchase hemp-infused products for pets, such as treats or shampoo, to introduce hemp into your dog’s life.
Before you give your dog hemp oil, make sure you consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage for your dog’s size, age, and specific needs.
By Mouth
Administering hemp oil to your dog orally can be an effective way to incorporate it into their diet. You can mix the recommended dose of hemp oil with a spoonful of their regular food to make it more palatable.
In Their Food
Mixing hemp oil into your dog’s food is a convenient way to deliver their daily dose, in particular if they don’t like to consume the oil directly by mouth.
Use a dropper to measure the recommended dosage of hemp oil, and mix it into your dog’s food. Or, purchase pre-measured hemp dog treats — a simple and tastier way for your dog to enjoy their dose.
In Their Shampoo
If you’re looking to use hemp oil to improve your dog’s skin and coat health, you can add it to their shampoo.
Choose a dog shampoo that is mild, free of harsh chemicals, and suitable for your dog’s specific coat and skin type, and then combine a small amount of the shampoo with a few drops of hemp oil.
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Sources
- Heart Smart, 2022. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation for Dogs and Cats with Heart Disease.
- Zurier, R.B., Rossetti, R.G., Jacobson, E.W., Demarco, D.M., Liu, N.Y., Temming, J.E., White, B.M. and Laposata, M. (1996). Gamma-linolenic acid treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Newman, T. (2022). Central nervous system: Structure, function, and diseases
- Shannon S, Lewis N, Lee H, Hughes S. Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.
- Tobias, M. (2023). CBD Overdose in Dogs: Can CBD Oil Harm My Dog? – Top Dog Tips.
- The Hound Lab. (2021). Hemp Seed Oil for Dogs.
- Xin G, Yang J, Li R, Gao Q, Li R, Wang J, Zhang J, Wang J. 2022. Dietary supplementation of hemp oil in teddy dogs: Effect on apparent nutrient digestibility, blood biochemistry and metabolomics.
