Finding the Best CBD Dog Allergy Relief Options

Written by: Hunter Podell, Subject Matter Expert and Website Founder
Published: March 15, 2024; Last updated: April 6, 2024

Is your dog constantly itching and scratching due to allergies, and you’re wondering if CBD could offer some relief? You’re not alone. Many pet owners are turning to CBD for dogs for allergy relief as a natural approach to soothe their dog’s irritating symptoms. This article dives into how CBD may alleviate the discomfort of allergies in dogs, the science behind it, and the considerations for choosing safe CBD products for your furry friend.

Key Takeaways

• CBD oil, derived from hemp, may alleviate symptoms of dog allergies such as itchy skin, reduce inflammation, and provide systemic relief by interacting with the dog’s endocannabinoid system.

• When choosing a CBD product for your dog, consider the hemp source, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum status, natural ingredients, and third-party lab testing for purity, safety, and efficacy.

• Topical CBD products like balms and shampoos can provide immediate skin relief for dogs, while oral CBD oils and treats support the immune system and provide overall allergy symptom relief.

Understanding Dog Allergies and the Role of CBD

Dogs, like humans, can suffer from different types of allergies. These include food allergies, environmental allergies like pollen or dust, and contact allergies, such as reactions to certain fabrics. Allergy symptoms often manifest as itchy skin, rashes, constant and excessive licking, runny noses, and other signs of discomfort. While it can be challenging to pinpoint the exact allergens, doing so plays a vital role in managing your dog’s allergy symptoms.

Enter CBD oil. Derived from the hemp plant, CBD oil is often utilized as a natural supplement to alleviate various ailments in dogs, including allergic reactions. CBD has been shown to offer relief for dogs with itchy and dry skin attributable to allergies and may help reduce allergy symptoms. Many dog owners report reductions in their dogs’ scratching and licking behaviors after using CBD oil and wonder about the mechanism. Delve into the scientific link between CBD and allergic reactions.

Identifying Common Allergens

Determining what triggers your dog’s allergies sets you on the path to a solution. Common environmental allergens for dogs include:

• Pollen

• Molds

• Grass

• Trees

• Dust mites

These allergens can trigger symptoms like itching and scratching, which can be seasonal or related to specific places. Imagine your pup itching every time you walk in the park during the spring season – that’s a telltale sign of seasonal allergies.

However, environmental allergens are not the only culprits. Contact and food allergies can also cause discomfort. For instance, flea saliva can cause flea allergy dermatitis, a common allergic reaction in dogs. So, if Fido can’t stop scratching after a flea infestation, it may not be just the bite that’s bothering him. Given that food sensitivities can evoke similar symptoms, it becomes even more vital to pinpoint the exact allergen causing the discomfort.

The Science Behind CBD and Allergic Reactions

The science behind CBD’s beneficial effects lies in its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in dogs. The ECS includes receptors, transmitters, and enzymes that help regulate inflammation, immune response, and pain perception. CBD influences the ECS by binding to its receptors, which can moderate the body’s immune response and reduce the inflammation associated with allergic reactions in dogs. ²

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, CBD has the following benefits for dogs with allergies:

• Relieves discomfort caused by skin irritations

• Relieves discomfort caused by gastrointestinal issues

• Reduces stress during allergy flare-ups by decreasing anxiety levels

These benefits contribute to the overall well-being of dogs with allergies.

Furthermore, dogs with allergies may experience the following benefits when CBD is used to soothe irritated skin:

• Improved skin health

• Reduced itching

• CBD’s antibacterial properties can aid in treating infections commonly associated with allergic reactions

• Strengthening the skin’s barrier against allergens

Lastly, CBD can stimulate appetite in dogs with allergies, helping them achieve better nutrition and assisting in the healing process.

Choosing Quality CBD Products for Your Dog

With knowledge of CBD’s potential to soothe your pup’s allergy symptoms, you can select the appropriate CBD product. Selecting a CBD product for dogs entails considering several crucial factors, such as:

• the hemp source

• full-spectrum or broad-spectrum status

• inclusion of natural ingredients

• the presence of third-party lab testing

Full spectrum CBD oil, enriched with natural carrier oils like hemp seed oil, offers comprehensive benefits due to the entourage effect, which can be particularly beneficial for dogs with allergies. Some key features to look for in CBD hemp oil products for dogs include:

• Third-party lab testing to ensure purity, safety, and efficacy

• Veterinarian-formulated products for added trust and suitability for pet health

• CBD products are made from organically grown American hemp, free of pesticides, to meet the highest quality and safety standards.

Still unsure about the difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD? Let’s dissect it further.

Full Spectrum vs. Broad Spectrum: Understanding the Difference

Full-spectrum CBD, also known as full-spectrum hemp extract, contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that naturally occur in hemp, including trace amounts of THC. On the other hand, broad-spectrum CBD, or spectrum hemp extract, has all these compounds but with THC completely removed. Both total and broad-spectrum CBD products can offer the entourage effect, where the combined effect of cannabinoids and terpenes can enhance the medicinal properties of hemp oil.

However, for the complete beneficial profile of cannabinoids, which may be more useful for dogs with allergies, full-spectrum CBD is generally recommended. That said, if you’re concerned about any legal implications or effects of THC, even in negligible amounts, you might opt for broad-spectrum CBD oil. Regardless, it’s imperative to scrutinize product labels and certificates of analysis to verify the safety and efficacy of CBD products for your dog.

Reading Labels and Certificates of Analysis

Certificates of Analysis (COAs) are crucial for confirming the content of CBD products, including exact levels of CBD and THC, and ensuring they are free from contaminants like mold and pesticides. When reading product labels, look for the total CBD content in milligrams, recommended serving sizes based on pet weight or size, and expiration date with storage instructions.

COAs should include detection limit indicators like LOD and LOQ to determine substances’ detectability and measurement reliability. They should show ‘undetected’ for undesired elements such as pesticides and heavy metals. An independent third-party lab should issue the COA to validate transparency and reliability, and companies must make COA readily accessible to consumers.

Having learned how to pick a quality CBD product, we can now investigate how to apply these products topically for skin health.

Topical Relief: CBD Balms and Shampoos for Skin Health

Topical CBD products, such as balms and shampoos, can provide immediate relief for dogs with skin allergies and irritations. These products often include natural carrier oils like MCT or hemp seed oil, essential for maintaining skin hydration and health without harmful artificial additives. CBD balms may contain ingredients beneficial for a dog’s skin health, such as:

• coconut oil

• hemp seed oil

• aloe vera extract

• oatmeal extract

These ingredients help to alleviate itching and soothe sensitive skin, making them beneficial for those prone to skin infections.

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties help with skin conditions like flea allergy dermatitis, aiding in symptom alleviation by activating CB2 receptors in the skin. CBD oil for dogs in the form of balms contributes to skin moisture and protection, easing allergies, redness, and chronic inflammation in dogs. Topical use of CBD can bypass the digestive system, reducing the risk of interactions with Cytochrome P450 enzymes and offering an alternative for pets with restrictions on oral CBD intake. ¹

I was wondering how to utilize these topical products. Let’s dissect that next.

Soothing Balms for Hot Spots and Irritated Skin

CBD salve for dogs can:

• Decrease redness

• Regulate the immunological response

• Alleviate discomfort

• Assist with persistent redness, irritation, and dryness caused by allergies and skin conditions.

CBD salve can relieve hot spots, localized skin inflammation, and infection. Hot spots in dogs can be caused by various issues, including allergies, ear infections, bacterial infections, insect bites, and more, which CBD salve can help address.

CBD salve should be applied 2-3 times daily to affected areas to soothe hot spots and skin irritations. It’s a convenient, natural remedy to easily incorporate into your dog’s dog’s routine. But what about maintaining a clean, allergen-free coat? That’s where CBD-infused pet shampoos come in.

Gentle Cleansing with CBD-Infused Pet Shampoo

Keeping your dog’s coat clean is essential in managing environmental allergies. And what better way to do this than with a CBD-infused pet shampoo? These shampoos are specifically formulated to soothe skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies and support healthy, itch-free skin. They may include purified water, coconut-based cleansers, and organic lavender extract. They are designed to be hypoallergenic, tearless, pet pH-balanced, detergent-free, dye-free, and cruelty-free.

Regular baths with a high-quality CBD-infused shampoo can help manage a dog’s environmental allergies by removing external allergens from the skin and coat, thereby relieving allergies. Just remember to make bath time a calm and positive experience for your dog to minimize stress and resistance.

Let’s switch gears and discuss the internal application of CBD for boosting the immune system.

Internal Support: CBD Oils and Treats for Immune System Strength

While topical products can immediately relieve skin irritations, CBD oils, and treats can support a dog’s immune system and provide systemic relief from allergy symptoms. CBD interacts with the dog’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in maintaining balance in various bodily functions, including the immune system. By stimulating the production of cannabinoids naturally, CBD oil can help reduce inflammation, a common symptom of allergies, through the immune system. Some benefits of using CBD oil for allergies in dogs include ²:

• Reducing itching and scratching

• Relieving inflammation and redness

• Calming irritated skin

• Supporting the immune system

CBD oil’s influence on the body supports various systems and functions, including:

• Nervous system

• Digestive system

• Immune system

• Brain

It helps maintain normal immune system responses and promotes neurological function. CBD also provides systemic relief from itchiness by targeting inflammation and promoting the growth of new healthy skin cells. It is recognized as a natural remedy to alleviate itchiness in dogs, especially for conditions like seasonal allergies, flea bites, or other skin irritations.

Administering CBD Oil for Systemic Relief

Administering CBD oil to your dog requires careful consideration of dosage and method. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• CBD oil dosing for dogs can start at a range of 0.05 to 0.25 mg per pound of body weight twice daily, with adjustments made depending on the dog’s size, product concentration, and the specific problem being addressed.

• CBD oil can be administered to dogs directly by mouth, under or on the tongue, or added to their food.

• Carrier oils in the product help improve cannabinoid absorption.

When integrating CBD into a dog’s routine, begin with lower doses and adjust as necessary, bearing in mind that smaller doses may suffice for anxiety or general health. In comparison, larger doses may be required for pain or immune system issues. Consistent dosing is crucial for efficacy.

Be sure to closely monitor your dog’s reaction to CBD and seek your vet’s advice if any adverse effects become apparent.

The Convenience of CBD Dog Treats

For dogs that dislike oil droppers, CBD treats present a tasty and convenient alternative for allergy relief and overall health support. CBD dog treats are formulated in flavors like bacon and chicken, which are highly palatable to most dogs. CBD soft chews for dogs come in different potencies, including 3mg per chew suitable for small to medium breeds and 6mg for larger breeds or dogs needing more substantial support.

These treats provide a consistent, pre-measured amount of CBD, making it easier for pet owners to manage the dosage. The treats can also serve a dual purpose as training rewards, offering both CBD benefits and behavioral incentives. With CBD dog treats, administering CBD becomes as easy as rewarding your pup for being a good boy or girl. But, like any other medication or supplement, knowing CBD’s safety and potential side effects is essential.

Safety and Side Effects: What Pet Parents Need to Know

As a diligent pet owner, prioritizing your dog’s safety when using CBD is a must. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial before starting a CBD treatment for a dog’s allergies, mainly if the pet is already on other medications. When administering CBD to dogs, pet parents should be aware of possible side effects like diarrhea and make dosage adjustments as needed.

CBD can inhibit enzymes like cytochrome P450, which are responsible for metabolizing many medications, possibly leading to heightened effects and risks of side effects from those drugs. Specific medications known to interact with CBD include blood thinners and seizure medications; such interactions can increase side effects, reinforcing the need for veterinary oversight. Careful monitoring of a dog’s reaction to CBD, especially when other drugs are involved, helps ensure CBD’s safe and effective use for treating allergies.

Recognizing Signs of Too Much CBD

Although CBD is typically safe for dogs, an overdose is possible. Vomiting and diarrhea are common clinical signs of CBD overdose in dogs. Dogs generally have an excellent prognosis for recovery from CBD poisoning, with signs typically resolving within 24 hours.

If a dog is suspected to have THC or CBD poisoning, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately. Dogs with moderate gastrointestinal signs due to CBD poisoning may be treated with anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medications without requiring hospitalization.

Prevention is always better than cure, so monitoring your dog closely and adjusting the dosage as necessary is essential.

Interactions with Other Drugs and Conditions

CBD can both speed up and slow down drug metabolism, depending on the cytochrome involved and the specific medication taken, potentially altering the drug’s potency. Blood thinners like Warfarin and seizure medications like Valproic Acid are examples of drugs known to interact with CBD. Interactions with CBD are not typically life-threatening but can enhance the risk of side effects from medications due to delayed drug metabolism.

Veterinarians can monitor blood plasma levels and adjust medication dosages to use CBD alongside prescription drugs safely. Always consult your vet before starting any new medication or supplement, including CBD, especially if your dog is already taking other medications.

Integrating CBD Into Your Dog’s Everyday Life

Determining the right CBD product and suitable dosage allows you to incorporate CBD into your dog’s daily routine. Broad-spectrum hemp oil can be given directly to your dog by dropping it into their mouth, preferably under the tongue, for fast absorption into the bloodstream. CBD soft chews can be incorporated into a dog’s daily routine as a training reward or treat, which also helps with portion control and establishing a consistent CBD intake.

Hemp oil capsules are another way to include CBD in your dog’s daily routine, allowing for precise dosing, and can be disguised in treats if the dog is reluctant to take pills. Creating a calm and comfortable environment can help reduce any anxiety or stress your dog may experience while administering CBD oil. When distributing CBD oil, preparing your dog and ensuring they are relaxed is essential to facilitate a positive experience.

Establishing a Routine for Consistent Relief

Setting up a routine for administering CBD is pivotal for achieving steady relief. It is recommended to start with a low dose of CBD for your dog and gradually increase as needed while monitoring for any adverse effects. To establish a consistent routine, CBD soft chews can be given as the first reward at the start of the day, sticking to the amount recommended on the packaging.

For a straightforward delivery, full-spectrum hemp oil can be administered directly under a dog’s tongue to achieve quick absorption and consistent relief. CBD supplements in capsule form can be used for an exact dose each time, ensuring a consistent routine when integrating CBD into your dog’s daily life.

Other methods for administering CBD oil to dogs include:

• Placing the oil directly under the dog’s tongue or along the gum line for quick absorption through the mucous membranes

• Mixing CBD oil with a dog’s food or treats

• Applying CBD oil topically for localized issues.

Combining Natural Remedies for Optimal Results

To boost allergy relief, you may want to couple CBD with other natural remedies. Some options include:

• Licorice root: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice root can help relieve allergy symptoms in dogs when used as a low-alcohol extract or tea.

• Frankincense and turmeric: Combined with CBD in oral tinctures, these ingredients can enhance the immune system’s response to allergens.

• Manuka honey and ginger: When combined with CBD in topical salves, these ingredients can target localized skin symptoms.

Feeding dogs colostrum can improve allergy symptoms by modulating the immune system’s response to allergens and reducing histamine production. Medicinal mushrooms, significantly high in beta-glucan, may help modify the immune response in dogs with allergies, preventing inflammation, autoimmunity, and allergic reactions. Probiotics can play a role in reducing inflammation and autoimmune reactions, potentially lessening allergy symptoms in canines. Omega-3 fatty acids from sources like hempseed oil and green-lipped mussel oil are beneficial in decreasing inflammation and allergy symptoms in dogs.

Quercetin, a natural phytonutrient in certain fruits and vegetables, is a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agent to help alleviate allergic reactions in dogs. Some fruits and vegetables that contain quercetin include:

• Apples

• Berries

• Onions

• Kale

• Broccoli

Nettle leaf is advantageous for its natural antihistamine properties and is available as a dry herb, tea, or tincture to manage canine allergies.

Summary

In conclusion, CBD can be a powerful ally in the fight against dog allergies. Whether used topically or orally, CBD offers a range of benefits, from reducing inflammation and itching to supporting the immune system and promoting overall well-being. Choosing the right CBD product and administering it correctly and consistently can significantly affect your dog’s comfort and quality of life.

However, as with any treatment, it’s essential to consult your vet before starting CBD, especially if your dog takes other medications. Always start with a low dose, adjust as necessary, and closely monitor your dog’s reaction. Remember, the goal is to enhance your pet’s health and happiness. With careful consideration and mindful application, CBD can be a game-changer in managing your dog’s allergies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CBD oil replace Apoquel?

CBD oil can effectively treat allergies and their symptoms, with healing properties that produce the opposite effect of Apoquel’s side effects.

Can CBD relieve allergies?

While CBD may function as a natural antihistamine and help manage severe allergy symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a doctor before using it, especially if you have severe allergies or are taking other medications.

What’s the difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD?

The main difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD is the presence of THC; full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC, while broad-spectrum CBD has THC wholly removed. This means that broad-spectrum CBD is THC-free, while full-spectrum CBD has trace amounts of THC.

How can I administer CBD oil to my dog?

You can administer CBD oil to your dog directly by mouth, add it to their food, or apply it topically for localized issues. Consider consulting your vet for the best method based on your dog’s needs.

How much CBD oil should I give my dog?

Start with 0.05 to 0.25 mg of CBD oil per pound of your dog’s body weight, given twice daily, and adjust as needed based on your dog’s size, the product concentration, and the specific issue you’re addressing.

References

Mogi, C., Yoshida, M., Kawano, K., Fukuyama, T., & Arai, T. (2022). Effects of cannabidiol without delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol on canine atopic dermatitis: A retrospective assessment of 8 cases. The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 63(4), 423–426. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8922375/

Di Salvo, A., Conti, M. B., & Della Rocca, G. (2023). Pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of cannabidiol in dogs: an update of current knowledge. Frontiers in veterinary science, 10, 1204526. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1204526

Gamble, L. J., Boesch, J. M., Frye, C. W., Schwark, W. S., Mann, S., Wolfe, L., Brown, H., Berthelsen, E. S., & Wakshlag, J. J. (2018). Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs. Frontiers in veterinary science, 5, 165. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2018.00165

Written by Hunter Podell - Subject Matter Expert and Website Founder

Hunter has 8+ years of experience as a content writer and digital marketer. Earning his chops marketing in the healthcare space for over 5 years, Hunter is extremely familiar with the rules and regulations required to deliver high quality content that answers the user's needs while adhering to strict guidelines.