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Will CBD Oil Calm Down a Hyper Dog? Important Facts to Know

Samantha Reed

By Samantha Reed

CBD Oil for dogs

Every dog has their own personality. Some are active, some prefer to lounge around the house with you, and some may be more active than we can handle. If you can’t calm your dog down with routine walks or exercise, a little more help may be needed to get the job done. Some dog breeds have naturally lower energy levels, and some dogs, like herding dogs, have so much energy that they rarely tire out. Finding a way to balance the energy of a hyperactive dog can be a struggle.

While all dogs need exercise and playtime no matter their age, if they still seem stressed, hyperactive, or wound up after their physical activity, an extra helping hand may be in order. CBD can be a great way to help lower your furry friend’s stress levels and help them manage their day-to-day a bit easier. Your dog will still require walks and their standard physical activities but including CBD will help relax your dog from its high-stress state.

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The Use of CBD

Using CBD oil on your dog will not cause your dog to be sedated or high. CBD will help them relax and may even cause your dogs to sleep more restfully after use. CBD won’t treat your dog’s hyperactivity, but it will help them maintain a calm state even if they hear booming thunder.

Lab taking CBD
Image Credit: Erin_Hinterland, Pixabay

What is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol is a natural and non-toxic concentrate made from hemp, not marijuana. CBD is non-psychoactive and does not change perceptions or behavior or affect the user’s mind or mental processes. CBD is currently being studied as a treatment for various physical and mental conditions in people, including Parkinson’s, Schizophrenia, Diabetes, Multiple Sclerosis, Anxiety, and Depression.

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Why Is My Dog Hyperactive?

True hyperactivity in dogs is rare but having a dog with high energy is not rare. Chronic hyperactivity typically presents itself as a general distractedness and high-energy bursts, most often seen in hyper dogs. Hyperkinesis is different from a training or psychological issue and typically is not the cause of more hyper behaviors. Talk to any dog owner, and you’ll discover plenty of dogs with insane amounts of energy that are not diagnosed as hyperkinetic. Most dog owners have experience with their own dogs being in the stages of over-distractedness, impulsiveness, fidgeting, or an inability to listen and respond to commands. Let’s take a look at some common factors leading to displays of hyperactive behaviors in our furry friends.

1. Breed

Breeds like Pointers and Retrievers are notorious for having high energy levels, but knowing the difference between your breed’s normal activity levels and the limits of excess excitement and energy can be a fine line. Certain breeds thrive on constant stimulation, and high-end activity levels are normal. Before you determine if your dog’s breed is the cause of any hyperactive behaviors, it is always worth increasing your dog’s daily exercise or play time to see if it helps their behavior.


2. Lack of Stimulation or Socialization

Keeping dogs entertained allows them safe channels of expressing their excess energy. Include play dates, change the games you play, and switch up walking routes to keep their minds and noses actively engaged in the current activity. When your dog encounters something new, it may react with energy and enthusiasm. After your dog gets used to the particular stimulus, the animal may barely register it and get bored. Having an outlet for your dog to channel that excitement is a great step in ensuring they stay actively engaged and not hyperactive during downtime.


3. Anxiety

Dogs experience anxiety just as much as we do: some even more so. Many dogs express their nervousness or show signs of anxiety in ways that mimic symptoms and reactions common in hyperactivity. Anxious dogs are likely to bark excessively, pant, destroy things, or even be aggressive. Without lots of exercise, stable routines and habits, and social contact, your dog may become anxious and show symptoms of their anxiety through hyperactive behaviors.

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What Are the Benefits of CBD for Hyper Dogs?

CBD use encourages a natural sleep cycle, can calm an upset stomach, maintains a sense of calmness, and can improve the dog’s mood. These are just some benefits that CBD can provide to your hyperactive pup. CBD is safe, and its ability to provide calming measures and other general wellness benefits have convinced several dog owners to try it on their pets.

Dog and CBD
Image Credit: Erin_Hinterland, Pixabay

How To Choose CBD Oil for Hyper Dogs

There is a lot to consider when searching for CBD oil for your dog. Let’s look at some vital factors to look for when choosing CBD.

  • Natural ingredients: Hemp shouldn’t be, and doesn’t need to be, dressed up or enhanced to provide the soothing qualities your dog needs. In fact, additives are not suitable for your pets and should be generally avoided as much as possible. You should only purchase CBD oil that comes from vetted or organic sources.
  • Broad spectrum CDD oil: Raw CBD has all its cannabinoids and is then turned into two separate extract types. Full spectrum CBD has cannabinoids and minute levels of TCH. However, broad-spectrum CBD includes no TCH. The broad spectrum oil is ideal for treating hyperactive dogs because it has fewer side effects.
  • Lab-tested products: Trustworthy companies test their products to ensure they are safe. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) certifying the product’s potency and whether it is broad of full spectrum CBD.

CBD Is Good for Hyper Dogs in Small Doses

Dealing with hyperactivity can strain your relationship with your pet and make you exhausted. Using CBD is a great way to calm down your dog. Nothing quite beats behavioral training, playtime, and patience, but CBD can help fill the gaps and relax your wild beast.

 

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Featured Image Credit: Erin_Hinterland, Pixabay

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