With continuing the continuing progress occurring with hemp and cannabinoid laws and medical treatments, you might be wondering if delta-8 for dogs is a good idea. While delta-8 is technically legal on the federal level (with some states still outlawing the product), it doesn’t mean it’s the right cannabinoid to use for any health conditions your dog experiences.
What Is Delta-8?
Delta-8 is a cannabinoid that very closely resembles delta-9, the primary psychoactive THC component in cannabis that produces the “high” that humans experience after consuming cannabis products. Humans that use delta-8 THC products may feel more relaxed, less anxious, or even a temporary reduction in pain.
You might want to share these generally positive experiences with your favorite pet. If you feel good after using delta-8 or other THC products, you might think delta-8 for your pet could be a great idea. You’re probably reading this because you are wondering, “Can dogs take delta-8?”
We’re sorry, but just because humans can have favorable reactions to delta-8 doesn’t mean that your dog can enjoy the same experience. In human biology, the body processes delta-8, CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids using natural cannabinoid receptors in the brain.
Dogs have a higher number of cannabinoid receptors than humans, which makes these animals have a higher sensitivity to the psychoactive cannabinoid components.[1] Since delta-8 is so similar to delta-9, researchers feel that both of these cannabinoids are likely to be toxic to all pets.
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Can I Give My Dog Delta-8 Products?
If you are asking yourself, “Can I give my dog delta-8,” you’re in the right place. The short answer to “Can dogs have delta-8?” is simply no. Keep in mind that professional researchers and veterinarians do not recommend delta-8 for pets of any age or breed.
Even with the best of intentions in mind, you should never use delta-8 dog treats or delta-8 gummies for dogs. There are better alternatives for animal anxiety, stress, and pain available. Keep reading to learn more about the effects of delta-8 on dogs.
Can Dogs Take Delta-8, or Does Delta-8 Hurt Dogs?
Is Delta-8 safe for dogs?
Even if you see social media supporting delta-8 dogs, you need to know that it is not scientifically beneficial for your dog or other pets. Specific cannabinoid research details aren’t available yet, but based on the similarities between delta-8 and delta-9, scientists and veterinarians do not recommend delta-8 to dogs for any reason.[2]
Can Dogs Have Delta-8? Signs, Symptoms, and Side Effects Your Dog Might Experience
The main reason scientists don’t recommend delta-8 for animals is that it is a compound that is too similar to delta-9 THC. Current information regarding questions like “Can dogs have delta-8?” or “Can dogs take delta-8?” relies on data from animal interactions with delta-9.[3]
The side effects and signs of animal THC intoxication include the following symptoms.
Increased Anxiety or Lethargy
While most humans enjoy reduced anxiety while intoxicated on THC, animals (and some humans) experience the opposite. If your dog consumes delta-8, you might notice increased whining, trembling, or pacing activity.
In some cases, your dog might experience increased fatigue that extends to not getting up to eat or drink at their regular times.
Changes in Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Animals like dogs can experience heart arrhythmias, erratic heartbeats, or a drop in blood pressure while under the influence of delta-8 and other psychoactive cannabinoids.
Dizziness, Drooling, and Dehydration
Consuming delta-8 THC can contribute to dehydration, leading to signs of dizziness or a loss of balance as they sit, stand, or walk. You might also note excessive drool, indicating that your pet is in pain or distress.
Unexpected Incontinence
Some dogs may lose control of their bladder while under the influence of delta-8 and other THC compounds. This incontinence may increase the animal’s stress level or make them feel shameful, in addition to the other symptoms they are experiencing.
What You Should Do If Your Dog Ate Delta-8
While you know that the professionals don’t recommend delta-8 for pets, sometimes accidents happen. Pets are intensely curious creatures and capable of incredible feats when they set their minds to getting into something that catches their attention.
If your dog consumes a delta-8 product or any other consumable containing THC compounds, you must observe your pet carefully. In most cases, low doses will only require a bit of rest and recovery. Contact your veterinarian for assistance to be proactive and safe.
Increase your vigilance with edible delta-8 products like brownies or sweets that may contain ingredients like chocolate or xylitol. These ingredients are toxic and potentially lethal to dogs. You should only keep delta-8 products in pet-safe containers and store them in areas your dog can’t access.
If your pet consumes a hefty dose of delta-8 or a delta-8 product with other toxic ingredients, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to pump the animal’s stomach, use enemas, and administer other treatments as necessary to protect your dog’s health.
A Pet Safe Alternative to Delta-8 Is CBD
Now that you know how unsafe delta-8 is for dogs and other animals, you might want to know if there is a safe alternative to help your pet’s health. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that most pets can safely consume in small doses.
CBD can provide a calming effect for humans and dogs without unwanted side effects or a sensation of being high. Your dog might find CBD useful for stressful appointments like grooming day or when the neighbors start lighting fireworks during celebrations.
Feeling calmer isn’t the only benefit of using CBD. Many CBD users and CBD-friendly pet owners report pain relief, reduced arthritis and joint inflammation, and improved digestion. Your pet can experience the benefits of CBD safely and healthily without feeling dizzy, distressed, or sick.[4]
The recommended dosage for most pets is around one milligram per five pounds of the animal’s weight. Be sure to note the potency and purity of the CBD product you use for your pet. You should always monitor your dog for any potential adverse side effects.
While we don’t recommend delta-8 for dogs, you can still explore the benefits of pet-friendly CBD products. Request a quote from CBD Nationwide for safe, high-quality CBD products by dialing 1-844-442-2369 today.
