CBD for Dogs with Kidney Disease: A Comprehensive Guide

Kidney disease in dogs is a serious condition that disrupts the kidneys’ essential functions: filtering waste, balancing bodily fluids, and regulating blood pressure. This condition, prevalent in older dogs, gradually affects a dog’s overall health, influencing everything from blood pressure control to red blood cell production.

Traditional treatments for kidney disease typically include specialized diets and medications. While these are effective, they also lead to side effects that affect a dog’s quality of life. Recently, more dog owners have begun exploring CBD oil as a natural, holistic option as a part of a balanced approach to providing symptom relief and improving comfort.

The information below shows how CBD oil benefits dogs with kidney disease and supports a variety of symptoms.

Why Kidney Health Matters

A dog’s kidneys do the heavy lifting, filter out waste, balance fluids, regulate blood pressure, and kickstart red blood cell production. But when these kidneys lose function, kidney disease sets in. Kidney disease in dogs is either acute (like a sudden shutdown from toxin exposure) or chronic (a gradual decline over time). While chronic kidney disease is incurable, the right symptom management slows its progression and improves a dog’s quality of life. A systematic review showed that “A multi-dimensional approach is necessary for successful treatment and prevention of canine chronic kidney disease, but evidence of efficacy or effectiveness is often lacking or highly variable,” (Roudebush, P., et al., 2010).

In dogs with kidney disease, the symptoms often include excessive drinking, frequent urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, and even severe symptoms like vomiting and lethargy. Blood and urine tests often reveal high blood urea nitrogen levels and imbalanced urine concentration, clear signs that the kidneys aren’t doing their job. Addressing these symptoms with a balanced diet, traditional medications, and now, CBD oil makes a world of difference.

How CBD Oil Helps Dogs with Kidney Disease

CBD oil is no cure-all, but it is a natural tool for managing kidney disease in dogs. It interacts with the dog’s endocannabinoid system, a complex system in the body that helps balance pain, mood, appetite, immune response, and inflammation. 

Reducing Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a major culprit in kidney disease, leading to further kidney damage and worsening symptoms. CBD oil has anti-inflammatory properties primarily through mechanisms involving the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines, modulation of NF-κB and STAT3 pathways, activation of TRPA1 and CB2 receptors, and inhibition of ROS production (Sunda, F., & Arowolo, A., 2020; Muthumalage, T., & Rahman, I., 2019; dos-Santos-Pereira, M., et al., 2020; Kozela, E., et al., 2009). These anti-inflammatory effects help prevent kidney damage and keep renal function from declining too fast.

Managing Pain

Pain is common in dogs with kidney disease due to inflammation and the buildup of toxins. Traditional medications often handle pain, but CBD oil’s natural pain-relieving properties also make a huge impact on a pet’s comfort. It helps reduce pain levels by reducing inflammation, modulating cytokine production, and interacting with the endocannabinoid system (Silva-Cardoso, G., et al., 2021; Mlost, J., Bryk, M., & Starowicz, K., 2020), so a pup stays active and feels more at ease.

Improving Appetite

Dogs with kidney disease often experience nausea, leading to a lack of appetite and weight loss. CBD oil helps stimulate appetite, encouraging a dog to maintain their body weight and get the nutrition they need. Although there is no specific canine study yet on this aspect, research shows that “Dosage-controlled cannabis capsules with THC and CBD showed improvement in appetite and mood in advanced cancer patients,” (Bar-Sela, G., et al., 2019). Moreover, proper nutrition is key for immune system support and overall health.

Calming Anxiety 

Kidney disease leaves a dog feeling out of sorts, leading to anxiety and stress. CBD oil’s calming effects by affecting brain activity in areas related to emotion regulation, interacting with serotonin and endocannabinoid receptors help manage these mental symptoms, reducing stress and allowing a dog to rest easier (Crippa, J., et al., 2011; Skelley, J., et al., 2019).

Recognizing Kidney Disease Symptoms in Dogs

Symptoms vary depending on the stage and severity of kidney disease. Early signs include thirst, frequent urination, or pale gums, but as it progresses, more serious symptoms emerge such as lethargy, abdominal pain, vomiting, and severe dehydration. While acute kidney disease comes on suddenly (often due to toxins), chronic kidney disease is a slow burn, often due to genetics or underlying health conditions. Noticing these symptoms early and seeking veterinary guidance make all the difference in managing kidney disease effectively.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil for A Dog

If a pet parent is considering Paws & Claws dog CBD oil to support their dog’s kidney health, the quality of the product makes a significant difference. Not all CBD oils are created equal, and selecting the right one maximizes benefits while ensuring a pet’s safety. Let’s look at a few essential features to prioritize when selecting CBD oil for dogs with kidney disease.

Look for Full-Spectrum CBD Oil

Full-spectrum CBD oil is ideal because it contains a range of naturally occurring compounds called cannabinoids and terpenes. These compounds work together to enhance the therapeutic effects through what’s known as the entourage effect, meaning they work better together than alone. Full-spectrum CBD helps support various aspects of a dog’s health, from managing pain and inflammation to improving mood and appetite.

Choose Lab-Tested Products

One of the most important steps in choosing CBD oil is ensuring it’s been tested by a reputable third-party lab. Lab testing verifies that CBD oil is free from harmful contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents that pose additional risks to dogs, especially those with kidney disease. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) on the product label or the brand’s website, this document confirms the product’s potency and purity.

Organic CBD Oil

For dogs with kidney disease, avoiding additional toxins is essential. Organic CBD oil, made from organically grown hemp, is free from pesticides, synthetic compounds, and chemical fertilizers, all of which put stress on already compromised kidneys. Choosing organic ensures a dog isn’t exposed to potentially harmful additives, making it a safer, cleaner option.

Select a Product Specifically for Pets

Stick with CBD oils specially formulated for pets, with added flavors or ingredients to make them more appealing and easier to digest. Pet-specific CBD products also consider dosage levels more suitable for animals, allowing for easier and safer administration. Look for CBD oil brands that clearly indicate their products are made for pets and are dedicated to meeting the specific needs of animal health.

Transparent Ingredients and Dosage Instructions

When selecting CBD oil, look for brands that offer clear ingredient lists and dosage guidelines based on the dog’s size and health needs. Clear dosage information helps ensure pet parents are administering the correct amount without risking side effects. It’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it if necessary, and always consult the dog’s veterinarian for guidance specific to the dog’s condition and needs.

By focusing on these quality indicators—full-spectrum formulation, lab testing, organic sourcing, pet-specific design, and transparent dosing—pet parents select a CBD oil that best supports their dog’s health, giving them a safe and effective way to manage symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.

Pairing CBD Oil with Holistic Kidney Disease Management

CBD oil works best alongside other supportive therapies to boost kidney health. An evidence-based review of therapies for canine chronic kidney disease concluded that “A multi-dimensional approach is necessary for successful treatment and prevention of canine chronic kidney disease, including identifying and eliminating causes and exacerbating factors,” (Roudebush, P., et al., 2010). Some holistic options to consider are listed below. 

Healthy Diet: A low-protein, low-phosphorus diet that’s also moisture-rich takes the pressure off the kidneys. Avoid dry, ultra-processed foods and focus on fresh, moisture-rich meals. Better yet, stick with prescription diets specifically made for dogs with kidney problems, as recommended by the dog’s attending veterinarian.

Hydration: Keep a dog hydrated! Kidney disease causes dehydration, so ensuring adequate water intake helps flush waste and maintain kidney function.

Acupuncture and Herbal Therapy: Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) offers options like acupuncture to boost blood flow to the kidneys and herbal remedies to support kidney health. An animal trial showed that “Oculo-acupuncture therapy (kidney/urinary bladder region plus zhong jiao region) was effective for recovery of renal injury induced by ethylene glycol in dogs,” (Liu, J., et al., 2007).

Homeopathy and Chiropractic Care: These therapies complement kidney disease management by improving nerve function and relieving pain.

Working with The Vet

While CBD oil and holistic approaches are incredibly beneficial, it’s essential to consult the dog’s veterinarian, especially if a dog is on medication. The vet guides pet parents on dosage, checks for interactions, and helps develop a well-rounded plan that supports a dog’s health.

Conclusion

At Paws & Claws CBD, we understand that kidney disease is a serious concern, and managing it requires the right blend of care and attention. With a comprehensive approach that includes CBD oil, a balanced diet, and plenty of hydration, pet parents support their dog’s comfort and help manage the symptoms that come with kidney disease. 

While CBD oil isn’t a cure, its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make a noticeable difference in a dog’s quality of life. Partnering with the dog’s vet is crucial to developing a personalized plan, from selecting the right CBD dosage to ensuring a diet that supports kidney function and overall health. By combining these strategies, pet owners help ease their dog’s discomfort and make day-to-day life more enjoyable, even with kidney challenges. Remember, every small step in symptom management and kidney health counts toward giving a furry friend more joyful moments ahead.

Ready to take a dog on a journey with CBD?

References

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• dos-Santos-Pereira, M., Guimarães, F., Del-Bel, E., Raisman‐Vozari, R., & Michel, P. (2020). Cannabidiol prevents LPS‐induced microglial inflammation by inhibiting ROS/NF‐κB‐dependent signaling and glucose consumption. Glia, 68, 561 – 573. https://doi.org/10.1002/glia.23738.
• Kozela, E., Pietr, M., Juknat, A., Rimmerman, N., Levy, R., & Vogel, Z. (2009). Cannabinoids Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol Differentially Inhibit the Lipopolysaccharide-activated NF-κB and Interferon-β/STAT Proinflammatory Pathways in BV-2 Microglial Cells*. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 285, 1616 – 1626. https://doi.org/10.1074/jbc.M109.069294.
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