How to make your dog feel comfortable on your next travel journey using CBD.
Dogs have been known as man’s best friend since the mid-1800s, and the phrasing has held true for many pet owners around the world. From their fierce loyalty to their eager-to-please personalities and always ever so happy to see you energy, there’s nothing quite like the companionship of a dog. Taking care of your furry family member can be a fun and exciting experience, but it can also be something that you need a little assistance with sometimes. Just like humans, dogs get anxious, and some can get particularly anxious during car rides.
Why Do Dogs Get Anxious?
Many pet owners claim that their dogs are spoiled and naturally splurge on providing them with toys, treats, and more. The majority of the time, most dogs are happy and easily excitable and don’t show signs of anxiety. However, your dog could feel a little anxious for a variety of reasons.
Common reasons dogs experience anxiety include but are not limited to:
- Loud noises
- Fear of being alone or separation anxiety
- Changes in their routine
- Strangers or small children
- Travel
Do All Dogs Get Anxious in the Car?
The short answer is no. Many dogs are excited to get in a vehicle and go for a ride. In fact, most dogs make incredible travel companions, and many love curling up in the passenger seat to take a nap while you drive, much like children. Unfortunately, some dogs experience anxiety or get car sick. This is especially common in puppies or dogs that aren’t used to being in a moving vehicle.
Signs that your dog might be experiencing some anxiety include:
- Fidgeting or restlessness
- Panting
- Barking, whining, or whimpering
- Vomiting
- Accidental urination or diarrhea
Some dogs will even refuse to enter a car if they feel nervous or have had anxiety in vehicles in the past. So, what can you do to improve your dog’s traveling experience, and are there any ways to ease their anxiety? Let’s discuss some options.
How Can I Make My Dog More Comfortable in the Car?
There are plenty plays of ways to teach your dog to love the car and help them get more comfortable riding as a passenger. As with a small child, routine is important, and making your vehicle feel like a safe space can be beneficial. The first step to getting your furry friend acclimated to the car is introducing them to it slowly and calmly.
Vehicles are much larger than dogs and humans, and that can be scary. Think about it — your vehicle is this large looming shape that moves. It makes loud noises and can’t coddle or express affection to make your pet feel safe. Therefore, it’s up to you to help your pup get used to the big clunky box in baby steps.
You can do this by:
- Putting treats and toys in the back seat to encourage them to enter the vehicle
- Sitting in the driver’s seat or any of the seats in the vehicle
- Opening and closing the doors
While these things might seem small in theory, they help show your dog that you’re safe and comfortable, which can make them feel that they can be too.
How CBD Treats Can Ease Your Dog’s Anxiety
Another great option for treating car anxiety in a dog is trying out cannabidiol (CBD) treats. While overall, studies surrounding the usage of CBD and pets are still relatively new, recent research suggests that the compound could decrease canine behavioral disorders such as anxiety.
What Is CBD?
You’ve more than likely heard of the term CBD in some fashion. Most people associate it with marijuana and THC, and while it is part of the compound that’s found in many products known for getting people “high,” it is not the ingredient that directly leads to that high.
CBD is a chemical derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. It’s sometimes referred to as hemp and is not intoxicating, nor does it have addictive properties.
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
While there is a limited amount of evidence backing up the long-term impact of using CBD with pets, anecdotal evidence shows promising results. In 2018, a study reported that CBD oil led to great improvement in dogs with osteoarthritis. The study reported that 80% of the dogs monitored showed improvement in pain and mobility thanks to the anti-inflammatory and anti-pain properties of the oil.
There’s still a need for much more research before we can adequately understand both the short- and long-term effects of CBD usage for pets, but as testing continues, the compound is showing drastic improvements for symptoms such as:
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Restlessness
- Chronic pain
- And much more
CBD Treats for Dogs
Just like with people, every dog’s body and needs are unique. Before giving your dog CBD chews or CBD oil, it’s important to understand that there’s no set scientific information on dosage. Potential side effects could include drowsiness or panting, and if this occurs, it’s important that you consult with your vet following prolonged symptoms.
Options for CBD treats come in various forms, including soft chews and tinctures. Understanding which products could be best for your pup can help you when browsing various options. A tincture is a type of CBD oil that allows active ingredients to reach the bloodstream faster. If your dog isn’t a fan of gummies or chews, you can mix the tincture with food or water, which can prolong the release for a smoother impact.
For dogs that are fans of treats and always excited for snack time, CBD chews are a great alternative to trying to put tincture on their tongue or dealing with getting your pup to eat right before a car ride. With all CBD options, it’s recommended that you start your dog off with lower dosages and work your way up as needed.