CBD Oil for Pets

The Canine Endocannabinoid System: What Happens When You Give Your Dog CBD?

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Have you ever wondered why CBD is beloved by pet owners? Why so many report seeing positive results when they give it to their pets?

Or how it can work in both humans and animals?

It’s because of that intricate system in their bodies — the same one we have in ours.

The Canine Endocannabinoid System

Just like humans, dogs have a complex system that runs throughout the body. This system is called the endocannabinoid system (ES), and it’s actually found in almost all animals.

Scientists first discovered the endocannabinoid system in the mid-1990s. With increased focus on CBD in recent years, research into this fascinating system is advancing rapidly.

The canine endocannabinoid system (and the ES in general) is made up of different cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are classified into two main categories — CB1 and CB2 — and they are found throughout a dog’s body: in the brain, major organs, bones, skin, and immune system.

The main goal of the ES is to bring about homeostasis (balance) in the body. These receptors play a role in various functions, including:

  • digestion
  • immune system function
  • pain management
  • mood and well-being
  • reproduction
  • emotional reactivity
  • neurogenesis (creation of new nerve cells)
  • brain development
  • sleep

Cannabinoids like CBD can interact with the ES. When you give your dog CBD, those receptors are affected, producing a response.

For example, with pain: CB1 receptors exist on nerve fibers outside the central nervous system and communicate with the brain. Cannabinoids stimulate CB1 receptors on sensory neurons, which can influence how your dog perceives pain.

The Endocannabinoid System and Inflammation

A lot of research has looked at the links between the endocannabinoid system and inflammation. The ES helps regulate immune system function and maintain balance.

Immune system cells have CB2 receptors on their surfaces. Research suggests that CB2 receptors support healthy responses to inflammation by influencing various pathways, including the modulation of certain immune cell activity.

So, if your dog isn’t at their best, it could be related to their ES being out of balance. Supporting these cannabinoid receptors may help promote overall well-being.

How to Support Your Dog’s ES Naturally

While CBD can interact with the ES, there are many other ways to naturally support its health:

  • Exercise – toss the ball, do some agility, or go for a walk.
  • Probiotics – certain strains, like Lactobacillus acidophilus, may influence CB2 receptor activity.
  • Reduce Stress – creating a calm and secure environment supports the ES.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids – essential for dogs, these support overall cellular health.
  • Sunlight – UVA exposure helps promote nitric oxide activity, which can influence CB1 receptor expression.

The canine endocannabinoid system is an incredible part of your dog’s biology. Keeping it healthy can support overall wellness and vitality!