Does CBD Stimulate Appetite in Dogs? The Complete Guide to Helping Your Pup Eat Again

Has your furry friend suddenly lost interest in their kibble? Is mealtime becoming a struggle rather than the highlight of your dog’s day? As a pet parent, few things are more concerning than watching your pup turn away from food. At Bailey’s CBD, we understand this worry all too well.

I’ve personally seen many dogs go from refusing meals to enthusiastically chowing down after introducing CBD into their routine. Today, I want to share everything we know about how CBD might help stimulate your dog’s appetite and get them eating normally again.

Why Dogs Lose Their Appetite

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand what might be causing your dog’s decreased appetite. Dogs typically love eating, so when they don’t, something’s usually wrong.

Common reasons dogs stop eating include:

• Illness or medical conditions: Kidney failure, infections, or other health issues
• Medication side effects: Many prescriptions, including chemotherapy, can cause nausea
• Stress and anxiety: Moving homes, new family members, boarding kennels, or other changes
• Digestive upset: Eating something they shouldn’t have or eating too fast
• Pain: Dental issues or joint pain can make eating uncomfortable
• Aging: Senior dogs sometimes experience decreased appetite

If your dog refuses to eat for more than 48 hours, it’s definitely time to see a veterinarian. However, for temporary appetite issues or as a complement to veterinary treatment, CBD oil might offer some help.

What is CBD Oil?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (the psychoactive component in marijuana), CBD won’t make your dog high and is considered safe when properly dosed.

CBD oil for dogs is typically derived from hemp plants (not marijuana) and contains less than 0.3% THC or is completely THC-free. Quality products like those from Bailey’s CBD and Cannanine are specifically formulated for pets and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re free from heavy metals and other toxins.

How CBD Works in a Dog’s Body

Both humans and dogs have what’s called an endocannabinoid system (ECS). This biological system helps maintain balance throughout the body and plays a role in regulating:

• Mood
• Pain sensation
• Immune function
• Sleep
• Appetite and digestion

When CBD enters your dog’s system, it interacts with this endocannabinoid system, potentially helping restore balance in areas that have become dysregulated – including appetite

Does CBD Actually Stimulate Appetite in Dogs?

Yes, CBD can stimulate appetite in dogs – and there’s both scientific and anecdotal evidence to support this.

Studies show that the endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in regulating feeding behavior. When appetite is diminished due to illness, stress, or other reasons, CBD oil can essentially “jump start” this system to stimulate hunger.

Research published in 2012 discovered that CBD targets specific receptors that can suppress feelings of nausea. When your dog’s stomach settles, they’re naturally more inclined to eat.

Additionally, CBD appears to be involved in triggering the brain’s motivational or reward-based aspects of eating. In other words, it might help make food appealing again to your pup.

Here at Bailey’s, we’ve received countless testimonials from pet parents who’ve seen remarkable improvements in their dogs’ appetites after starting CBD Take Karen, who shared that her Yorkie with kidney problems started eating again after CBD, or Wendi whose 5-pound Chihuahua regained its appetite with the help of our products

Signs Your Dog Might Benefit from CBD for Appetite

Consider CBD as an appetite stimulant if your dog shows these signs

• Consistently refusing meals
• Weight loss
• Decreased interest in treats they once loved
• Signs of nausea (drooling, licking lips, vomiting)
• Eating grass
• Stomach noises
• Flatulence
• Salivating
• Licking the floor
• Diarrhea

How CBD Helps Dogs Regain Their Appetite

CBD works in several ways to potentially stimulate appetite in dogs:

1. Reduces Nausea and Vomiting

One of the primary ways CBD helps is by settling your dog’s stomach. If they’re feeling nauseous, they naturally won’t want to eat. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain and gut that play a key role in nausea sensation.

2. Decreases Anxiety and Stress

For dogs experiencing appetite loss due to anxiety or stress, CBD’s calming properties can be a game-changer. By promoting a sense of calm, CBD may indirectly improve appetite in stressed pups.

3. Supports the Endocannabinoid System

As mentioned earlier, the endocannabinoid system helps regulate appetite. CBD can support this system’s function, potentially restoring normal hunger signals.

4. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammatory conditions can lead to discomfort and reduced appetite. CBD has natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help address underlying inflammation contributing to appetite loss.

5. Helps with Pain Management

If your dog isn’t eating because of pain (like joint discomfort or dental issues), CBD’s pain-relieving properties might make them comfortable enough to eat again.

How to Give CBD to Your Dog for Appetite Stimulation

If you’re ready to try CBD to help stimulate your dog’s appetite, there are several ways to administer it:

1. CBD Oil Tinctures

For the fastest results, place CBD oil drops directly in your dog’s mouth. Follow immediately with their favorite treat to create a positive association.

2. Mix with Food

If your dog will eat even a little, you can mix CBD oil with their food. This works well with wet food or can be drizzled over dry kibble.

3. CBD Treats

Many companies like Bailey’s offer CBD-infused treats that dogs love. These are especially good for picky eaters who might resist the oil.

4. CBD Balms

While not directly related to appetite, CBD balms can help with specific pain points that might be preventing your dog from eating comfortably.

Proper Dosing of CBD for Appetite Stimulation

The right CBD dosage for your dog depends primarily on their weight. As a general guideline:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Start with 1-5mg CBD daily
• Medium dogs (20-60 lbs): Start with 5-10mg CBD daily
• Large dogs (60+ lbs): Start with 10-20mg CBD daily

Always start with the lower end of the recommended dosage and gradually increase if needed. For appetite stimulation specifically, giving CBD about 30 minutes before mealtime often works best.

It’s also a good idea to use CBD consistently for at least a week or two before determining if it’s helping your dog’s appetite.

Real Success Stories: Dogs Who Got Their Appetite Back with CBD

At Bailey’s CBD, we’ve seen remarkable transformations in dogs’ appetites after starting CBD:

• Rocky stopped eating due to cancer treatments. After starting CBD oil, his appetite returned within days, helping him maintain strength during his treatment.

• Bella, a senior Labrador, gradually lost interest in food due to joint pain. CBD helped manage her discomfort, and she began eating regularly again.

• Max, a anxious rescue dog, wouldn’t eat when his owners left home. CBD helped calm his separation anxiety, and his eating habits normalized.

Choosing the Right CBD Product for Your Dog’s Appetite Issues

Not all CBD products are created equal. When shopping for CBD to help with your dog’s appetite, look for:

• Full or broad spectrum CBD: Contains multiple beneficial cannabinoids for enhanced effectiveness
• Organic hemp: Ensures no pesticides or chemicals were used in growing the plants
• Third-party testing: Confirms potency and purity
• THC-free options: Especially important for pets
• Dog-specific formulations: Created with canine health in mind

Companies like Bailey’s CBD and Cannanine offer high-quality CBD products specifically formulated for dogs, with proper dosing guidelines based on weight.

When to See a Vet vs. When to Try CBD

While CBD can be helpful for appetite stimulation, it’s important to know when veterinary care is needed:

See a vet immediately if:

• Your dog hasn’t eaten for more than 48 hours
• Your dog is also refusing water
• There are additional concerning symptoms (lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.)
• Your dog has a known medical condition
• Your dog seems to be in pain

Consider trying CBD when:

• Your vet has ruled out serious medical issues
• Your dog is experiencing mild, occasional appetite fluctuations
• Appetite loss appears related to stress or anxiety
• Your dog is on medications known to cause nausea
• You’re looking for a complementary approach alongside veterinary treatment

Always consult with your veterinarian before starting CBD, especially if your dog is on other medications.

Potential Side Effects of CBD in Dogs

CBD is generally considered safe for dogs, but some potential side effects include:

• Dry mouth (increased thirst)
• Temporary drowsiness
• Slight drop in blood pressure
• Diarrhea (usually with very high doses)

These effects are typically mild and often diminish as your dog adjusts to CBD. If you notice any concerning reactions, reduce the dosage or discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.

If your furry friend is struggling with appetite loss, CBD might be worth considering as part of their wellness plan. The natural compound works with your dog’s own endocannabinoid system to potentially reduce nausea, decrease stress, and stimulate natural hunger signals.

Remember that every dog is unique, and results can vary. Some pups respond quickly to CBD, while others might need more time or a different approach. The key is working closely with your veterinarian while observing your dog’s response to CBD.

At Bailey’s CBD, we’re passionate about helping dogs live their best lives – and that starts with proper nutrition and a healthy appetite. We’d love to hear about your experiences using CBD for your dog’s appetite issues in the comments below!

FAQs About CBD and Dog Appetite

How long does it take for CBD to stimulate appetite in dogs?
Some dogs show improved appetite within 30-60 minutes of administration, while others might take a few days of consistent use before noticeable changes occur.

Can CBD help with appetite in dogs undergoing chemotherapy?
Many pet parents report CBD helps counter the nausea and appetite suppression associated with chemotherapy. Always consult with your veterinary oncologist before adding any supplements.

Is CBD legal for pets?
Hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is federally legal in the United States. However, regulations vary by state, so check your local laws.

Can my dog overdose on CBD?
CBD has a very wide safety margin for dogs. While extremely high doses might cause side effects like diarrhea or drowsiness, true “overdoses” are not typically a concern with quality products used as directed.

How do I know if CBD is working for my dog’s appetite?
The most obvious sign is increased interest in food and more consistent eating habits. You might also notice less signs of nausea and improved overall energy levels.