How Long Does CBD Stay in Dogs Systems?

Heard the buzz about CBD and its potential benefits for furry friends? Some paw-rents are even considering trying it for their pup. But one question lingers: just how long does CBD stay in a dog’s system? Let’s dive in and explore this together.

The short answer? On average, CBD hangs around in a dog’s body for about 8 to 18 hours. But, like most things in life, it’s not that simple. Many factors play a role, so let’s dig a little deeper.

CBD and A Canine Companion: A Paw-sitive Connection

First things first, what is CBD? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp. It’s not the stuff that gets “high” – that’s THC’s job. CBD is non-psychoactive and generally safe for dogs. It works its magic by interacting with the dog’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors that helps maintain balance throughout their body. Think of it as their internal chill-out system.

Factors That Influence CBD’s Stay in A Dog’s System

Alright, time to dive deeper into the nitty-gritty. Like any substance, CBD doesn’t just vanish into thin air; it hangs around for a bit. But how long exactly? That’s where things get a bit more complex.

Size and Weight: Big Dog, Little Dog, Different Story

Think of it like this: a Great Dane and a Chihuahua are worlds apart in size. And just like they need different amounts of food, their bodies handle CBD differently too. Larger dogs tend to hold onto CBD for a longer time than smaller pups. It’s all about their metabolism and how quickly their bodies break down substances. “Alterations in metabolism may underlie the different lifespans of small and large breed dogs, with potential therapeutic strategies to improve large dog lifespans,” (Brookes, P., & Jiménez, A., 2021).

Age and Metabolism: The Senior Shuffle

As dogs age, their metabolism tends to slow down a bit. It’s like their internal engine isn’t running at full speed anymore. “Ageing leads to changes in drug metabolism, with some CYP enzymes reduced and frailty affecting metabolism and disposition,” (Kinirons, M., & O’Mahony, M., 2004).) So, in senior dogs, CBD takes a bit longer to process and leave their system compared to a spry young pup.

Overall Health: The Big Picture

Just like in humans, underlying health conditions affect how a dog’s body processes things, including CBD. If a dog has any liver or kidney issues, for example, it takes longer for CBD to clear its system. “Liver disease can alter the pharmacokinetics of many drugs, requiring dosage adjustments, and understanding specific enzymes involved in drug metabolism can help guide dosage adjustments,” (Rodighiero, V., 1999). Always have a chat with the dog’s attending veterinarian if a dog has any health concerns before starting them on CBD.

Frequency of Use: The Build-Up

Imagine filling a bathtub with water. The more is added, the longer it takes to drain. Similarly, if a dog takes CBD regularly, it gradually builds up in their system. “Repeated oral CBD administration in healthy dogs leads to dose-dependent increases in total systemic exposure and 24-hour trough plasma concentrations, with a steady state reached after 2 weeks of administration,” (Vaughn, D., Paulionis, L., & Kulpa, J., 2021). This means that even after a single dose wears off, there is still some CBD lingering from previous doses.

Dosage and Potency: A Little Goes a Long Way

This one’s pretty straightforward. The higher the dose and potency of the CBD product, the longer it’s likely to stay in a dog’s system. “Oral CBD-infused oil has the most favorable pharmacokinetic profile, with a half-life of 127.5 ± 32.2 minutes after a 75-mg dose and 199.7 β 55.9 minutes after a 150-mg dose in healthy dogs.,” (Bartner, L., et al, 2018). It’s like the difference between a sip of coffee and a triple espresso – the stronger the brew, the longer the buzz.

The Average Hang Time: 8-18 Hours

Okay, back to the average duration. Generally, CBD stays in a dog’s system for about 8 to 18 hours (Bartner, L., et al, 2018). But remember those factors we just talked about? They all influence how long it takes for CBD to leave a dog’s body completely.

Also, keep in mind that CBD has a cumulative effect. So, if a dog takes it regularly, it stays in their system for a bit longer each time.

Method of Administration: The Fast Track vs. The Scenic Route

How CBD is given to dogs plays a role. CBD oil administered under the tongue (sublingually) or on the gums is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, leading to faster effects but potentially a shorter duration. On the other hand, CBD treats need to be digested first, so the effects take a bit longer to kick in, but they also last a bit longer.

So, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long CBD stays in a dog’s system. It’s a complex interplay of factors, unique to each dog. But armed with this knowledge, paw-rents work with the dog’s veterinarian to find the right CBD routine for a furry friend.

Signs That CBD Has Left the Building

Alright, so a furry friend has had their dose of CBD. But how to tell when it’s time for the encore? When has the CBD left their system? Let’s play detective and look for some clues.

Back to Baseline: A Return to Normal

For paw-rents who have been using CBD to help manage their dog’s anxiety or pain, the most obvious sign that it’s worn off is a return of those symptoms. Was the dog less anxious during a thunderstorm? Did they seem more comfortable moving around with their arthritis? If those issues start creeping back in, it’s likely the CBD’s effects are fading.

The Second Dose: No Encore Performance?

Another telltale sign is a lack of response to additional CBD. If a pup is given another dose and they don’t seem any different, it’s a good bet that the previous dose has already left their system. It’s like trying to refill a cup that’s already full – it just won’t have the same effect.

Lab Tests: The Science Says…

In some cases, if a paw-rent is curious (or if a vet needs to know), blood or urine tests detect traces of CBD. However, this isn’t something most pet owners need to worry about. Unless a dog is undergoing specific medical procedures or treatments, it’s usually enough to simply observe their behavior and responses.

A Few Other Things to Keep in Mind

• Subtle Shifts: Sometimes the signs are subtle. A dog is a little less playful or a bit more restless than usual.
• Individual Differences: Just like humans, every dog reacts to CBD differently. Some show clear signs when it wears off, while others have more gradual changes.

The key is to pay close attention to a dog’s behavior and overall well-being. Over time, paw-rents get a feel for how long CBD typically lasts for them, and adjust the dosage or schedule accordingly.

And remember, if there are any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to the dog’s veterinarian. They’re a partner in keeping a furry friend happy and healthy!

Why CBD for Dogs? The Buzz Isn’t Just Hype

What’s all the fuss about CBD for dogs? Well, CBD isn’t just a passing trend. It’s showing real promise in supporting canine companions’ well-being. Let’s dig into some of the ways how CBD lends a helping paw.

Anxiety and Stress: A Calming Presence

Anxiety and stress turn even the happiest pup into a nervous wreck. Separation anxiety, loud noises, or new environments trigger a cascade of worry. CBD’s calming properties offer a gentle solution. It helps dogs feel more relaxed and at ease, promoting a sense of peace and contentment.

Pain and Inflammation: A Natural Soother

Whether it’s the aches of aging joints, the discomfort of an injury, or the challenges of a chronic condition, pain and inflammation significantly impact a dog’s quality of life. CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties offer a natural way to manage these discomforts (Gamble, L. J., et al., 2018). This means more mobility, less stiffness, and a happier pup overall.

Seizures: A Potential Aid

For dogs with epilepsy, the fear and uncertainty surrounding seizures are overwhelming for both pets and owners. While traditional medications exist, they often come with side effects. CBD has shown promise in reducing the frequency and severity of seizures in some dogs. “CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract at 2 mg/kg every 12 hours can effectively reduce epileptic seizure frequency in dogs when used in conjunction with other anti-seizure medications,” (García, G., et al., 2022). It’s not a cure-all, but it offers an additional tool for managing this challenging condition.

Skin Problems: A Soothing Solution

Itchy skin, hot spots, and allergies make a dog miserable. CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties offer relief. “CBD/CBDA as an adjunct therapy decreased pruritus in dogs with atopic dermatitis, but not skin lesions,” (Loewinger, M., et al., 2022). This means less scratching, less discomfort, and a happier, healthier coat.

And That’s Not All!

The potential benefits of CBD don’t stop there. 

• Better sleep: Helping a dog get the rest they need for optimal health.
• Improved appetite: Encouraging healthy eating habits, especially in dogs dealing with illness or medication side effects.
• Overall well-being: Promoting a sense of balance and calm in a furry friend.

Remember, every dog is different, and CBD affects them in unique ways. It’s always best to consult a veterinarian before starting any new supplement, including CBD. Veterinarians guide owners to choose the right CBD product, determine the appropriate dosage, and monitor a pet’s progress. However, not all veterinarians welcome the idea of using CBD on pets as research is still ongoing. In this case, consult holistic veterinarians for proper clinical assessment of the pet’s needs. Open discussions with them provide answers to questions, address any concerns, and ensure the pet’s CBD journey is a safe and successful one.

So, is CBD the answer to all dog’s woes? Maybe not. But it’s certainly a promising tool worth exploring with a vet’s guidance.

Safety First: Using CBD Responsibly

CBD is generally safe for dogs, but it’s important to be a responsible pet parent. Some tips are listed below.

• Talk to the Dog’s Vet: Always consult a vet before giving a dog CBD, especially if they have any health conditions or are taking other medications.
• Choose High-Quality Products: Look for pet-specific CBD products from reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing results.
• Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a small dose and gradually increase it if needed, always monitoring a dog’s response.
• Store it Safely: Keep CBD products out of a dog’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

Conclusion: CBD and A Furry Friend

So, there! While CBD generally stays in a dog’s system for 8-18 hours, several factors influence this. By understanding these factors and using CBD responsibly, paw-rents help a furry friend experience its potential benefits safely and effectively.

Remember, the dog’s vet is the best resource for any questions or concerns about CBD and the dog. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for personalized advice.

References

• Bartner, L., McGrath, S., Rao, S., Hyatt, L., & Wittenburg, L. (2018). Pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol administered by 3 delivery methods at 2 different dosages to healthy dogs. Canadian journal of veterinary research = Revue canadienne de recherche veterinaire, 82 3, 178-183 .
• Brookes, P., & Jiménez, A. (2021). Metabolomics of aging in primary fibroblasts from small and large breed dogs. GeroScience, 43, 1683 – 1696. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11357-021-00388-0.
• Cornell University (2024). CBD: What you need to know about its uses and efficacy. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/cbd-what-you-need-know-about-its-uses-and-efficacy. Accessed September 23, 2024. 
• 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
• García, G., Kube, S., Carrera-Justiz, S., Tittle, D., & Wakshlag, J. (2022). Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of refractory epileptic seizures in dogs. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966.
• Kinirons, M., & O’Mahony, M. (2004). Drug metabolism and aging. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 57 5, 540-4. https://doi.org/10.1111/J.1365-2125.2004.02096.X.
• Loewinger, M., Wakshlag, J., Bowden, D., Peters-Kennedy, J., & Rosenberg, A. (2022). The effect of a mixed cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid based oil on client‐owned dogs with atopic dermatitis. Veterinary Dermatology, 33, 329 – e77. https://doi.org/10.1111/vde.13077.
• National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2018). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/  
• Rodighiero, V. (1999). Effects of Liver Disease on Pharmacokinetics. Clinical Pharmacokinetics, 37, 399-431. https://doi.org/10.2165/00003088-199937050-00004.
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD). https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
• Vaughn, D., Paulionis, L., & Kulpa, J. (2021). Randomized, placebo-controlled, 28-day safety and pharmacokinetics evaluation of repeated oral cannabidiol administration in healthy dogs. American journal of veterinary research, 82 5, 405-416. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.82.5.405.