Can CBD Oil Help Dogs With Separation Anxiety?
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Separation anxiety in dogs can be hard to deal with. Dogs that are stressed out, unhappy or even destructive when their owners leave them may need some extra help to get through it.
What Causes Separation Anxiety In A Dog?
Separation anxiety can be caused by many things. Some dogs may have had a bad experience in a shelter or with a previous owner. For others, a change in routine or schedule can be the cause. A dog who has lost a family member may also experience separation anxiety. It could be a result of how the dog was treated during his early years or it could even be genetic.
If your dog shows signs of separation anxiety, make sure to let his veterinarian know so he can help you come up with an effective treatment plan .
What Behaviors Do Dogs With Separation Anxiety Exhibit?
One thing you should keep in mind is that most cases of canine separation anxiety are not always severe, or even visible to owners.
When a dog is separated from his family, he can experience physical symptoms as well as emotional anxiety. If your dog has separation anxiety, it’s important to help him break the habit and learn that being left alone is not the end of the world.
Some of these behaviors may include:
- Non-stop whining, howling or barking
- Panting
- Pacing
- Digging
- Destruction of property, from chewing shoes, pillows or rugs, to gnawing on furniture
- Some dogs may also vomit or even defecate in the house.
Some dogs with separation anxiety may even engage in destructive behaviors when their owners are home, but out of sight.
If your dog has separation anxiety, there is no need to feel embarrassed…it is quite common.
So, What Are CBD’s Effects on Separation Anxiety in Dogs?
CBD is a natural supplement derived from the hemp plant and it has been known to ease several ailments, including seizures and pain. More and more research studies are also proving that CBD may also help treat behavioral problems like anxiety and insomnia.
This popular cannabinoid might do the same for your dog. It may also help with other medical conditions your dog suffers from, including arthritis pain or hip dysplasia. However, it’s important to remember that while there’s some anecdotal evidence suggesting it can be effective for treating separation anxiety, we need more research to say anything definitive .
What we do know is that CBD oil has been shown to have many benefits for dogs including reducing reactivity and fear. This is because CBD oil activates certain receptors in the brain that help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calmness.
What Other Training Strategies Should Be Used To Manage This Condition?
It is important to work with a veterinarian to create an effective treatment plan. You should also employ other training and behavior modification strategies to help manage your dog’s condition on a daily basis.
Some training strategies you may want to consider include:
- Don’t act sad when you are leaving the house, just go.
- When you return at the end of the day, don’t over stimulate your dog.
Leave your dog with a stuffed animal or toy that smells like you - Creating a routine for your dog and following it closely
- Training your dog to stay in a designated area or room when you’re not home
- Make sure your pup gets a lot of exercise
Other training strategies that may be helpful include gradually increasing the time spent away from the dog and providing plenty of positive reinforcement when the dog is calm and relaxed.
Be sure to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog CBD oil, and be sure to use a reputable brand like The Anxious Pet. Know the benefits and the side effects so you can treat her successfully.