CBD Oil for Dogs with Itchy Skin—Does it Work? [2022 Update]

So, Max the Collie is scratching so energetically that his hair flies all over the place. And you're sitting hands in the hair because nothing seems to alleviate your poor canine companion's itchy skin, which is causing his frantic scratching. Fret not, because, with cannabidiol (CBD) oil, dogs' itchy skin is most often easily soothed.

RELATED: What is CBD Oil?

Table of Contents:

1. CBD Oil—Dogs' Itchy Skin Solution: What Does Research Say?
2. Finding and Dosing CBD Oil for Dogs with Itchy Skin
    2.1 How to Find a High Quality CBD Oil for Your Dog
    2.2 CBD for Dogs: Dosage Guidelines
    2.3 CBD for Dogs: Administration Guidelines
    2.4 Don't Give CBD to Dogs on Medicine

 

1. CBD Oil—Dogs' Itchy Skin Solution: What Does Research Say?

 

Research is making headway and indicates cannabidiol's medicinal utility and safety in humans. Veterinary research is a different story, though, and there still exist large gaps in our knowledge regarding exactly how CBD works, its toxicity, and its long-term efficacy in animals.

However, CBD has been shown to be very safe in humans, and this seems to be the case for animals too, even though their physiology differs from ours. Many pet owners swear by CBD for their animals. (Click to tweet)

Yet, there are no formal, medical guidelines regarding dosage, administration, etc. at the moment, which can be problematic when experimenting. Simply giving Max a hefty dose of high-CBD cannabis oil the neighbor swears by for his own eczema might not be a good idea. 

On the topic of cannabis oil—often this oil contains high doses of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cousin of CBD. This is typically found in full-spectrum oils, as trace amounts of THC and other cannabinoids are desirable for the synergy they create. Federally legal full-spectrum oils must contain no more than 0.3% THC.

The THC molecule may have many healthful properties for humans, but it is also known to cause toxic reactions in some animals. It can even be lethal in high doses. Researchers believe that this has mostly to do with the difference between the human and the animal endocannabinoid system, the latter of which the receptors express differently.

Therefore, it's very important to be sure of what you're giving your dog for its itchy skin, even if it says "CBD oil" on the label. The bottom line is that you’ll want to ensure that the product you are buying is intended for pets and does not contain THC.

RELATED: Liposomal CBD for Dogs - This is How it Helps Them Chill Out

CBD products designed for dogs will provide the best results and will ensure you’re not giving your pet something harmful. Cannabidiol has been a miracle worker when it comes to controlling inflammation. [1] (Click to tweet)

This is something that is incredibly helpful for dogs with allergies, as itching and chewing constantly can cause serious inflammation. Using CBD oil can ease the swelling and inflammation caused by scratching or chewing, help heal the natural skin barrier, and soothe the skin. (Click to tweet)

RELATED: A Guide to Using CBD Oil for Pets

 

2. Finding and Dosing CBD Oil for Dogs with Itchy Skin

 

Since CBD is generally considered safe, you can experiment with doses until you find a dose that is perfect for your pup's needs. Fortunately, there are tons of different cannabidiol-infused pet products on the market today. However, having access to so many different products and brands can be a major headache.

One great option would be to find a high quality, effective and trusted CBD oil for dogs, like SOL Liposomal CBD for Dogs & Cats. Take a look at this positive testimonial from a pet owner just like you:

Itchy skin and dogs’ skin allergy are common ailments that can turn serious if not seen to appropriately. Dogs can develop sores and even serious infections if their relentless scratching breaks the skin. CBD oil is perfectly poised to not only soothe the itch but also see to any underlying inflammatory condition. [2]

When it comes to especially severe skin conditions, it’s probably a good idea to chat with your vet before starting CBD as you’ll want to be sure it does not interact with any medications your dog is already on.

 

2.1 How to Find a High Quality CBD Oil for Your Dog

 

As the owner of a dog in pain, you are probably on a mission to find the most effective CBD product. If you’re reading this article, you might have already turned over a few rocks in search of something that will help your dog live healthily and happily. Look no further!

If you’re looking for CBD oil that is going to be highly effective even in small doses, you’ll want to focus on liposomal CBD. (Click to tweet)

Liposomal cannabidiol products are significantly more bioavailable and absorbable than traditional CBD options. In liposomal CBD products the CBD molecules are protected by a layer of fat bubbles called liposomes and can be transported safely and directly to the cells that need help.

RELATED: 7 Ways a High-Quality CBD Oil Can Help Your Aging Dog

Why are liposomes important? Well, they serve as tiny bodyguards for the cannabidiol. Keeping it encased in this layer of fat prevents it from degrading or breaking down in the body, packing a bigger punch of CBD as a result. On the other hand, CBD dog treats must be digested before any of the magic of CBD works its way into the bloodstream. Unfortunately, you will be losing some CBD when opting for this route of administration. 

Even regular CBD oils aren’t as bioavailable as liposomal formulas. CBD molecules repel water naturally, and bind to fat sources. Liposomes keep the majority of the CBD molecules intact while transporting them where they need to be, making it a more effective and powerful choice.

In short, look for the following on the label or in the marketing material of the manufacturer.

RELATED: How To Choose A High Quality CBD Oil

 

2.2 CBD for Dogs: Dosage Guidelines

 

The first place to start would be to follow the product’s dosage recommendations found on its label. However, do not be surprised if you have to do some experimenting with dosage before you find the results you’re searching for. 

Generally, you will want to offer liposomal CBD for pets twice a day at doses around 0.25ml per 20lbs. This is a great starting point for most dogs. Give yourself 2-4 weeks before increasing your dose, this will allow you to see first-hand whether or not the dose is effective for your pup.

You may need to up your dose over time, so starting with 0.25ml may very well turn into 2ml twice a day. It’s crucial that you pay close attention to your dog's body language and behavior when testing out your dose for the first couple of weeks, as this gives you insight as to whether or not an increase is necessary.

Keep in mind that CBD is not a miracle cure, and it doesn’t work immediately. It takes time to see results, so be patient and don’t be discouraged if your dog doesn’t respond like you had hoped initially. Administering CBD oil to your dog is a process of trial and error, you will have to find the sweet spot yourself.

 

2.3 CBD for Dogs: Administration Guidelines

 

The best thing about liposomal CBD is that it can easily be combined with food or water. This ensures that your dog will get his dose no matter what. Dry kibble and wet food are both fine as well. 

Sure, some dogs are more tolerant of having their mouths touched but most won't even let you think about it. If your dog is okay with having his mouth touched or manipulated, feel free to give the dose orally on the tongue.

RELATED: Pet CBD FAQ

 

2.4 Don't Give CBD to Dogs on Medicine

 

Finally, a cautionary note. CBD is metabolized via the liver, which can cause interaction between the cannabinoid and drugs. This is not a common problem, and CBD is often prescribed together with other medication without any issues. Yet in some cases, concomitant use can affect the efficacy and toxicity of the prescription drug. 

Therefore, don't give CBD to Max if he's already on other meds without consulting with your vet first. The same goes for replacing the medicine with CBD—rather, talk to the vet and find out about the wisdom of such a move. Also, ask whether the medicine administration can be terminated abruptly or over a period of time (to avoid withdrawal symptoms).

So, as stated, with CBD oil, dogs' itchy skin could soon be a thing of the past if administered correctly and in the right dosage. (Click to tweet)

Sources:

1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1094553921000596 
2. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/cbd-for-dogs-how-it-can-help-these-5-common-conditions/