Does CBD Help Dogs with Pica? A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

This article deals with the topic that every dog parent worries about when it comes to their furball’s safety: dogs eating things they shouldn’t. Pica, the term for when dogs eat non-food items, isn’t just a quirky habit – it is risky and even life-threatening. Pica behavior leads to intestinal blockages, poisoning, or injuries to a dog’s stomach and digestive system, so it’s a big deal for their health and safety.

A dog’s pica behavior has left many pet parents baffled and concerned. Pet parents everywhere are asking: Does CBD help dogs with pica? While research on CBD’s effects on dogs is still evolving, the calming properties of CBD oil and treats, primarily mediated through modulation of serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, endocannabinoid signaling, and activity in limbic and paralimbic brain areas, are giving owners hope as a natural way to help with their dog’s pica (Crippa, J., et al, 2011; Mandolini, G., et al., 2018) 

This article provides a detailed examination of pica, including its potential causes and the role of CBD in managing this condition. Additionally, it discusses conventional strategies for addressing pica, ensuring that pet owners have a well-rounded approach to support their dog’s health and behavior.

Understanding Pica in Dogs

Before exploring potential solutions, it’s important to comprehend the underlying reasons why some dogs exhibit pica behavior. Dogs with pica often chew, lick, or ingest non-food items such as rocks, socks, sticks, or plastic. While this behavior appears humorous at times, it is frequently associated with more significant underlying issues.

The Possible Causes of Pica in Dogs

Medical Issues: Pica is sometimes a red flag for underlying health problems. Dogs eat inappropriate items due to nutritional deficiencies, intestinal tract pain, or anemia. An animal trial showed that “A protein-deficient diet in dogs can result in mild abnormalities in serum biochemical assays, including serum proteins, urea nitrogen, hepatic enzymes, and bile acids,” (Davenport, D., et al., 1994). Digestive issues, parasites, and even dental pain cause a dog to eat non-food items as a way to self-soothe or address discomfort.

Behavioral Issues: Just like humans, dogs feel bored, anxious, or stressed. A dog who feels lonely or lacks mental and physical stimulation starts eating inappropriate items just to pass the time. An observational study concluded that “Pica in dogs is primarily of a behavioral nature, with anxiety or attachment-related troubles being implicated in 88% of cases,” (Masson, S., et al., 2021). A dog’s pica behavior is also learned over time, especially if they once got their owner’s attention by chewing on things they shouldn’t.

Genetics: Certain breeds are naturally more inclined to engage in pica. Dogs like Labradors, who are always curious are more inclined to develop pica compared to other breeds.

Age: Puppies are notorious for exploring the world with their mouths, which sometimes means chewing on and eating non-food items. While most dogs grow out of this phase, some don’t, leading to pica behavior in adult dogs.

To effectively address pica, it’s essential to figure out the root cause. This means a visit to the veterinarian, where blood tests and a thorough checkup help rule out underlying medical conditions. Sometimes, more specialized care from a veterinary behaviorist is needed to address the issue.

The Role of CBD in Managing Pica Behavior

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis), CBD doesn’t produce a “high.” Instead, it interacts with a dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) – the network responsible for balancing essential functions like mood, pain, and appetite. This system is present in humans and animals, which is why CBD is used to support overall health and alleviate stress. By helping dogs achieve this natural balance, CBD has shown promise as a tool for easing anxiety and, in turn, managing behavioral issues like pica. 

Continue reading to learn how CBD helps with pica behavior in dogs.

Reducing Anxiety and Stress

Anxiety and stress are often significant triggers for pica behavior in dogs. Many pet parents have noticed that when their dogs feel calmer and more relaxed, they’re less likely to eat non-food items or chew on inappropriate things around the house. CBD’s calming effects come from its interaction with the ECS, which helps regulate anxiety and stress responses in the body.

CBD is a valuable tool in preventing stress-induced pica behavior, as dogs often chew and ingest foreign objects when they’re anxious or feeling overwhelmed.

For pet parents dealing with pica-related stress, CBD is a proactive step toward creating a calmer environment, helping their furry friends feel more at ease and less prone to destructive behaviors. By promoting relaxation, CBD is a game-changer for dogs who tend to chew or eat things out of anxiety.

Supporting Overall Well-being

In many cases, dogs with chronic pain, arthritis, or inflammation chew on unusual items as a coping mechanism. Eating non-food items on their way of self-soothing when they feel discomfort or pain. Here, CBD’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties are particularly beneficial. By reducing pain and inflammation, CBD helps dogs feel more comfortable in their skin, reducing the need to self-soothe through inappropriate chewing. Better physical well-being also improves a dog’s mood and helps them get quality sleep – both essential factors for stable behavior and a balanced mindset.

CBD even helps ease symptoms of digestive discomfort, which some experts believe to be linked to pica. Studies suggest that CBD helps ease symptoms of digestive discomfort by reducing inflammation, improving pain and quality of life, and decreasing gut permeability, although results are mixed, and further research is needed (Svendsen, K., Sharkey, K., & Altier, C., 2023; Esposito, G., et al., 2013; ).. So, whether a dog is managing physical pain, intestinal discomfort, or general discomfort, CBD offers additional support that contributes to their overall wellness and makes them less likely to turn to pica as a form of relief.

Managing Compulsive Behavior

Pica isn’t always driven by anxiety or pain; sometimes, it’s a compulsive behavior that dogs develop over time. Compulsive tendencies make dogs act on “automatic” behaviors, like repeatedly eating rocks or socks. CBD’s calming effects help mitigate these compulsions by supporting the ECS, which plays a role in regulating repetitive behaviors.

An animal trial showed that “CBD and paroxetine decrease marble-burying behavior in mice through distinct pharmacological mechanisms, suggesting a potential role of cannabinoid system drugs in modulating compulsive behavior,” (Casarotto, P., et al., 2010). Some pet parents have seen success with CBD in reducing their dog’s obsessive habits, making it a potentially valuable part of a comprehensive approach to managing compulsive pica.

When paired with behavior modification strategies, CBD helps reduce the intensity or frequency of a dog’s compulsive urges, helping them develop healthier habits. This is especially useful for owners who’ve already tried other methods without success. While CBD isn’t a cure for compulsive disorders, its ability to promote calmness could make it easier for dogs to shift away from pica behavior when combined with positive reinforcement and redirection techniques.

In summary, CBD’s versatility in supporting calm, comfort, and behavior regulation makes it a potential ally in managing pica. Always consult the dog’s veterinarian before starting any new treatment to ensure CBD is safe for a pet’s specific health needs. Whether a pet parent is managing anxiety, pain, or compulsive tendencies, CBD offers valuable support as part of a broader strategy to help a dog live a happier, healthier life free from pica-related risks.

Addressing the Underlying Causes of Pica

CBD is just one piece of the puzzle. Most dogs with pica benefit from a well-rounded approach that targets the root cause. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to manage pica in dogs.

Veterinary Care

The first step in managing pica is a trip to the vet. A veterinarian rules out any health issues that are possibly driving a dog to eat non-food items. Blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds help pinpoint medical issues like digestive blockages or nutritional deficiencies that lead to pica.

Behavior Modification Training

Working with a trainer or veterinary behaviorist makes a huge difference. Here are some methods that help.

Positive Reinforcement: Rewarding a dog with treats, toys, or praise when they engage with appropriate items helps shift their focus.

Redirecting Behavior: When a dog is seen going for an inappropriate item, redirect them to a safe chew toy. This gradually builds the habit of choosing dog-safe items over dangerous foreign objects.

Behavior modification takes time and consistency, so be patient. The goal is to create a safe environment where a dog learns to chew on their own toys instead of inappropriate items.

Environmental Management

Creating a dog-safe space is critical for pica-prone pups. Here’s how to make an environment more pica-proof:

• Remove Temptations: Keep non-food items like small objects, socks, and trash out of reach. Consider baby gates or closed doors to limit a dog’s access to high-risk areas.
• Basket Muzzle: For dogs who frequently eat harmful objects outside, a basket muzzle prevents them from picking up inappropriate items during walks without restricting their breathing.

Enrichment and Exercise

A bored dog is more likely to chew on anything within reach. Try the enrichment activities below to keep a dog mentally and physically stimulated.

Interactive Toys: Toys like treat-dispensing puzzles keep a dog busy and provide mental stimulation. They’re a fantastic way to redirect chewing to appropriate outlets.

Regular Exercise: Daily walks and play sessions are essential for managing a dog’s energy levels and reducing pica behavior linked to boredom. Exercise keeps a dog active and helps reduce destructive behaviors.

Stress and Anxiety Management

If stress or anxiety is at the root of a dog’s pica, finding ways to help them relax is essential. Consider the options below.

Desensitization: For stress-inducing events like fireworks, gradual exposure combined with positive reinforcement helps reduce anxiety.

Calming Tools: CBD treats or oil, as well as calming vests and background music, all help create a soothing environment for anxious dogs.

Final Takeaway

Managing pica takes a multifaceted approach and a healthy dose of patience. It is challenging, but with consistency, professional support, and even natural aids like CBD, there are ways to make a difference in a dog’s life. Whether it’s reducing anxiety, finding a vet-approved CBD product, or implementing behavior modification, pet parents have additional tools to help their furry friend stay safe, happy, and pica-free.

References

• Casarotto, P., Gomes, F., Resstel, L., & Guimarães, F. (2010). Cannabidiol inhibitory effect on marble-burying behaviour: involvement of CB1 receptors. Behavioural Pharmacology, 21, 353-358. https://doi.org/10.1097/FBP.0b013e32833b33c5.
• Crippa, J., Derenusson, G., Ferrari, T., Wichert-Ana, L., Duran, F., Martín-Santos, R., Simões, M., Bhattacharyya, S., Fusar-Poli, P., Atakan, Z., Filho, A., Freitas-Ferrari, M., McGuire, P., Zuardi, A., Busatto, G., & Hallak, J. (2011). Neural basis of anxiolytic effects of cannabidiol (CBD) in generalized social anxiety disorder: a preliminary report. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 25, 121 – 130. https://doi.org/10.1177/0269881110379283.
• Davenport, D., Mostardi, R., Richardson, D., Gross, K., Greene, K., & Blair, K. (1994). Protein-deficient diet alters serum alkaline phosphatase, bile acids, proteins, and urea nitrogen in dogs. The Journal of Nutrition, 124 12 Suppl, 2677S-2679S. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/124.suppl_12.2677S.
• Esposito, G., Filippis, D., Cirillo, C., Iuvone, T., Capoccia, E., Scuderi, C., Steardo, A., Cuomo, R., & Steardo, L. (2013). Cannabidiol in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Brief Overview. Phytotherapy Research, 27. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.4781.
• Mandolini, G., Lazzaretti, M., Pigoni, A., Oldani, L., Delvecchio, G., & Brambilla, P. (2018). Pharmacological properties of cannabidiol in the treatment of psychiatric disorders: a critical overview. Epidemiology and Psychiatric Sciences, 27, 327 – 335. https://doi.org/10.1017/S2045796018000239.
• Masson, S., Guitaut, N., Medam, T., & Béata, C. (2021). Link between Foreign Body Ingestion and Behavioural Disorder in Dogs. Journal of Veterinary Behavior. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.JVEB.2021.04.001.
• Svendsen, K., Sharkey, K., & Altier, C. (2023). Non-Intoxicating Cannabinoids in Visceral Pain.. Cannabis and cannabinoid research. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2023.0113.