Some dog owners have reported positive outcomes from using CBD to help their dogs sleep better, but it's best to approach this with caution and proper understanding. As you can over do it can cause your dog discomfort with CBD.
Let’s talk about how CBD works to potentially improve dogs’ sleeping habits.
Does CBD Help Dogs Sleep?
Yes, CBD has demonstrated an ability to support dogs’ sleep.
We may not realize that dogs suffer from sleep disorders, but they can, and it’s important not to ignore the signs of sleep issues.
Poor sleep quality can affect a dog in many ways. Let’s break down how CBD interacts with dogs’ bodies and the potential health benefits that may come from this interaction.
Calming
CBD interacts with a dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) by influencing its receptors (CB1 and CB2). CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system.
By modulating these receptors, CBD might help support physiological functions, including mood, anxiety, and stress responses.
Anxious Behaviors
Anxious behaviors in dogs can manifest themselves in various ways.
It may look like excessive barking, restlessness, pacing, or even withdrawal. These behaviors can interrupt a good night’s rest for a dog. CBD may promote relaxation in a dog, which will indirectly support their anxious behaviors as well.
Barking
Given that CBD may provide calming effects, this may indirectly lead to a reduction in barking.
While you may not be able to control all anxiety triggers, such as loud noises outside the home, you can at least support your furry friend in regulating the phsysiolgoical functions that react to those triggers.
Even though CBD has been shown to be able to support a dog’s sleep cycle, it’s important to know that it is a support and not a treatment.
This means you should address other factors that may be affecting your dog’s sleep negatively. Creating a sleep-friendly sleep environment is really important for your pup. This means reducing noise, light, and triggering environmental elements in their sleep space. It’s also a good idea to keep strict sleep schedule. Dogs can be similar to children and thrive under a consistent routine.
Should Dogs Take CBD or Melatonin?
So should dogs take CBD or melatonin?
We tend to side with recommending CBD due to its multi-purpose nature. Your dog’s sleep cycle can be affected by a variety of factors, such as pain or anxiety.
Melatonin doesn’t offer the wide variety of benefits to target needs outside of potentially improving sleep. CBD’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system allows it to offer a wider net of benefits that support each other to promote general wellness improvement.
Best CBD Products for Dogs
- Best Sleep Dog Chews: Neurogan CBN Dog Chews
- Best CBD for Restless Dogs: CBDDog Health Calm CBD Oil
- Best CBD for Puppies Sleep: Suzie’s CBD Bites
Neurogan Calming CBN Dog Chews
We are the first CBD company to make CBN chews for dogs, making these dog treats one of a kind. While maybe less known or popular than CBD, CBN is another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It's particularly gaining attention for its potential sedative effects when used in a full spectrum formula[1].
Give your dog one of our CBN Calming Dog Treats before you want them to wind down or fall asleep, and watch 25 mg of CBN work its magic.
Plus, with a natural vegan bacon flavor and premium ingredients, such as apple butter, apple sauce, and coconut oil, you’re canine friend will look forward to treat time with these chews.
CBDDog Health Calm CBD Oil
Creating a calm environment is the first step to helping your dog sleep. The second step to support a good night’s sleep for your pup is to give them CBDDog Health’s Calm CBD Oil. CBD oil for dogs interacts with dogs’ endocannabinoid system to provide some calming effects to your restless dog.
Many restless dogs need a certain amount of exercise and stimulation in order to be able to wind down, but some days, you’re not able to achieve that.
With a full spectrum formulation and the option to buy an extra-strength dosage, this oil is a great addition to your dog’s bedtime tookit.
Suzie’s CBD Bites
Suzie’s CBD Bites for Little Dogs are our go-to pick for puppies who are establishing a bedtime routine.
With only 2 mg of full spectrum CBD per bite, these perfect for dogs and puppies with small bodies. Pet wellness often starts with the habits and lifestyle choices you make for your dog when they are puppies. CBD treats with a low dose can be a great choice for puppies, as you probably already include treats in your training routine.
The Takeaway: CBD for Dog Sleep
Research into CBD’s interaction with a dog’s endocannabinoid system and its relationship to dog insomnia and sleep disorders is still developing.
While more research is needed, dog owners are still turning to CBD products to support their dogs’ sleep. Sleep quality can make a big difference in your dog’s health, and addressing sleep issues can be a game changer for their overall wellness.
References:
- Gannon, W., Bronfein, W., Jackson, D., Holshouser, K., Artman, B. E., Schestepol, M., ... & Rudnic, E. M. (2021). Novel formulation of THC and CBN in a repeat-action tablet improves objective and subjective measurements of sleep. Am. J. Endocannabinoid Med, 3(1), 12-18.
