What is the best oil for dogs with allergies

Types of Dog Allergies and How to Treat Them

Have you heard someone tell you that their dog has allergies? Has your veterinarian suggested that allergies could be a problem for your dog? Do you suspect that your dog has allergies? If so, then youve probably realized that allergies in dogs are not quite as simple as we might wish. For starters, there are several different types of allergies that could be causing your dogs symptoms.

Allergies are a misguided reaction to foreign substances by the bodys immune system, which, of course, people and pets can suffer from. There are quite a few different types of allergies in dogs. Skin allergies, food allergies, and environmental allergens all pose challenges for dogs and their owners, and to make things more complicated, the symptoms of all these different types of allergies can overlap.

Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs

The symptoms of allergies in dogs may vary depending on the cause. A dog that goes into anaphylactic shock, for instance, will have a drop in blood pressure followed by shock, which is very different from a skin condition.

In general, however, the following symptoms could be a sign of an allergic reaction.

• Itchiness
• Hives
• Swelling of the face, ears, lips, eyelids, or earflaps
• Red, inflamed skin
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Sneezing
• Itchy ears
• Chronic ear infections
• Itchy, runny eyes
• Constant licking

Some of these symptoms could also be a sign of another condition. Make an appointment with your veterinarian if you notice changes in their behavior to get an accurate diagnosis.

Types of Allergic Reactions in Dogs

Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs

Skin allergies in dogs, known as allergic dermatitis, is the most common type of allergic reaction in dogs. Skin allergies in dogs are mainly caused by one of three things: fleas, food allergies, and atopicor environmentalallergies.Flea allergy dermatitis is an allergic reaction to fleabites, and some dogs are allergic to flea saliva, which can cause their skin to become red, inflamed, or scabbed because their skin will feel extremely itchy. Its the easiest type of allergic dermatitis to treat, since you can apply flea medication for dogs to help heal their skin.

Another cause of skin allergy in dogs is from food allergies and sensitivities. Just like humans can be allergic to certain foods or ingredients, dogs can be allergic, which can cause itchy skin. Dogs with food allergies usually have itchy ears or paws, sometimes along with gastrointestinal symptoms. Dr. Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the AKC, says that food allergies are not as common as you might think. True food allergies result in an immune response, which can range in symptoms from hives, facial swelling, and itchiness to gastrointestinal signs like vomiting and diarrhea or a combination of both.

Environmental allergens can also affect the skin and be the cause of allergic dermatitis. Things like dust, pollen, fungus, and mold can cause these reactions, but in most cases, these allergies are seasonal. As with food allergies that affect the skin, the most commonly affected areas are the paws and ears (but also include the wrists, ankles, muzzle, underarms, groin, around the eyes, and in between the toes).

All skin allergies pose the risk of secondary infection. As your dog scratches, bites, and licks at his skin, he risks opening up his skin to yeast and bacterial infections that may require treatment.

Urticaria, or Hives, in Dogs

Also known as urticaria, hives on dogs are very itchy but are not life-threatening. Hives appear as a reaction anywhere from 6 to 24 hours after exposure to allergens. This consists of itchy, swelled skin, that usually looks like a red rash. Its easiest to spot hives on dogs that are hairless or have short coats. Dogs with longer hair can get them too, but its more likely that youd be able to fee the hives rather than see them. Your vet will prescribe an antihistamine in order to treat urticaria in dogs.

Edema of Face or Throat

Swelling of the throat or face looks severe, but its actually almost never fatal. This area of swelling, which can also include swelling of the eyelids or ear flaps, is known as angioneurotic edema. Its actually pretty easily treated, and despite how it looks, its a good sign in terms of allergic reactions.

If your dog has edema of any of these areas, the time for a fatal allergic reaction has most likely passed, and they arent in as much danger. Angioneurotic edema occurs anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours after exposure to an allergen, and can also come with hives.A veterinarian will often give dogs with this reaction an antihistamine injection. Untreated, it may take a day or two for the swelling to subside.

Anaphylactic Shock

Perhaps the most alarming of all the types of allergic reactions in dogs is anaphylactic shock. Like people, dogs can go into anaphylactic shock if they have a severe reaction to an allergen. This happens when antibodies produced by the host react negatively to the allergen, dropping your dogs blood pressure rapidly and sending them into shock. This can be fatal if not treated, but luckily, anaphylactic reactions are rare in dogs.

This can be a response to any allergen, most commonly bee or wasp stings, or vaccine reactions. Because of this, your vet will always recommend keeping a close eye on your dog after theyve been given any new vaccine, drug, or food item, as they might be allergic.

If a dog has had a past incident and survived, the owner may carry an epipen, but sometimes the first occurrence can lead to death. Fortunately these reactions are very rare in dogs.

In some rare cases, a severe food allergy reaction resulting in anaphylaxis can occur, similar to severe peanut allergies in humans. The best way to diagnose and treat a food allergy is to work with your veterinarian to manage your dogs symptoms and discover the ingredient causing the reaction.

Diagnosing Allergies in Dogs

Flea allergy dermatitis is typically the easiest allergy to diagnose. It is usually diagnosed by identifying fleas on your dogs body and applying a product that kills fleas before they can bite to see if that solves the issues.

The first thing your veterinarian will do in allergy testing is rule out any other condition that could be causing your dogs symptoms. If your veterinarian feels that an allergy is a likely cause, they may propose allergy testing to try and determine the cause of the allergen that is causing the reaction. However, keep in mind it may not always be possible to determine the cause of an allergy with testing.

If you have ever undergone allergy testing, then you know that diagnosing allergies is often complicated. Its the same for dogs, but its worth it to understand what to stay away from when it comes to your dog.Food allergies are often diagnosed using an elimination diet. A food trial consists of feeding a dog one source of protein and carbohydrate for 12 weeks.

Treating Allergies in Dogs

The best way to treat an allergy is avoidance of the cause and allergen, which may not always be possible. They type of treatment depends on the type of allergy your dog has. For example, the best way to treat flea allergy dermatitis is to kill the fleas, whereas the best way to treat a food allergy or food intolerance is a change in diet.

Depending on the cause and severity of your dogs allergic reaction, your veterinarian will prescribe different things. For hives, they might suggest antihistamines, cortisones, medicated shampoos, whereas with food allergies they might suggest fish oil or other Omega-3 fatty acid supplements. For skin allergies, they might prescribe dog-safe anti-inflammatory wipes or shampoo on skin to provide irritation relief.

In addition to any lifestyle changes that might be necessary, your veterinarian may also prescribe an allergy relief medication for your dog that will help control the signs associated with the allergic reaction, such as itching and any secondary skin infections that might have developed as a result of the irritant.

If your dog has a severe allergic reaction, your best course of action is to get them to an emergency veterinary hospital as quickly as possible.

Compare the Best CBD Oil for Dog Allergies in 2022

How CBD Helps With Dog Allergies

CBD (cannabidiol) is among over one hundred compounds known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant⁽¹⁾.

The purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of CBD⁽²⁾ may help relieve dog allergy symptoms such as itchiness⁽³⁾.

CBD may increase a dogs inflammatory response⁽⁴⁾ by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The cannabinoids anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve symptoms produced by allergen triggers.

Researchers have historically conducted a significant percentage of endocannabinoid system studies on the human ECS.

However, researchers have recently also investigated the possible effects of CBD on animals ECS to target health conditions and their contributing factors, including inflammation, pain, and anxiety⁽⁵⁾.

A canines ECS consists of endogenous ligands, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes⁽⁶⁾. Endogenous ligands are naturally occurring small molecules.

The two primary receptors in a dogs ECS include CB1 and CB2 receptors. These ECS receptors combine with plant-based phytocannabinoids, including CBD.

CB1 and CB2 receptors are involved in various essential biological processes, including inflammation, pain, anxiety, immune function, and metabolic regulation.

CB1 receptors are present in salivary glands, hair follicles, skin, and the hippocampus in dogs. These receptors are believed to be able to control pain.

Meanwhile, CB2 receptors up-regulate numerous anti-inflammatory pathways, including inhibiting pro-inflammatory activity within T lymphocytes (T-cells)⁽⁷⁾.

T-cells are stem cell-derived cells in the immune system that help protect a dogs body from infection.

The purported anti-inflammatory properties of CBD result from its interaction with the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the ECS.

Meanwhile, arachidonic acid is a significant precursor in the manufacturing of anti-inflammatory endocannabinoids within the canines body⁽⁸⁾. Arachidonic acid is a fatty acid in animal fats closely connected to metabolism.

The process involving arachidonic acid helps combat the degradation of anandamide, leading to pain and inflammation⁽⁹⁾. Anandamide is a fatty acid neurotransmitter contained in humans, animals, and plants.

The ECS regulates several bodily functions in mammals, including the central nervous system (CNS) and immune system.

Allergens can affect the ECS proper function by triggering the immune systems response to a perceived threat, such as fleas, pollen, or dog food ingredients⁽¹⁰⁾.

Cannabis-derived phytocannabinoids interact with an animals ECS as ligand molecules⁽¹¹⁾. Researchers continue to investigate the mechanisms of this process.

Phytocannabinoids may also bolster the ECS protective function. A 2019 study published in the Antioxidants journal reported that CBD may produce antioxidant effects in humans by reducing oxidative stress⁽¹²⁾.

Meanwhile, a 2021 meta-analysis published in the Antioxidants journal evaluated animal and clinical studies to determine the potential therapeutic benefits of dietary antioxidants for allergic rhinitis⁽¹³⁾.

Allergic rhinitis is an allergy-induced inflammation of the nasal septum.

Additional research is warranted to determine whether CBD produces similar antioxidant effects in other mammals, such as dogs. This effect may potentially help relieve and reduce the symptoms of allergies in dogs.

Benefits and Uses of CBD for Dog Allergies

Human and animal research suggests that CBD may provide anti-inflammatory⁽¹⁴⁾, antioxidative⁽¹⁵⁾, and analgesic⁽¹⁶⁾ properties. Such purported biological effects of CBD may help relieve symptoms of canine allergies.

The following can trigger a dogs skin itchiness⁽¹⁷⁾:

• Allergens, including those that cause skin allergies like flea allergy dermatitis
• Food allergies and sensitivities, such as gluten intolerance
• Environmental allergens such as dust, pollen, and mold

Allergy triggers can produce cutaneous allergic reactions such as atopic dermatitis⁽¹⁸⁾, inducing red, dry, inflamed, flaky, and itchy skin symptoms.

Additionally, all skin allergies among dogs include a risk of secondary infection⁽¹⁹⁾. Bacterial or yeast infection may consequently occur after the dog licks, scratches, or bites its skin.

A 2012 dog study investigated how CBD may relieve symptoms of atopic dermatitis⁽²⁰⁾.

The researchers reported that CBD oil seemed to improve skin health and reduce itchiness. They also hypothesized that CBDs anti-inflammatory properties may help relieve symptoms of allergic skin diseases.

Meanwhile, an earlier human study led by Meliha Karsak showed that the ECS plays a protective role in allergic contact dermatitis⁽²¹⁾.

The researchers suggested that particular cannabinoids can combat allergic reactions⁽²²⁾. They also hypothesized that the compounds may provide therapeutic effects for contact skin allergies.

The study mentioned was conducted on human subjects. Further studies are required to show whether CBD for dogs may provide similar therapeutic effects due to the mammals having analogous ECS structures.

Dog allergies may also produce watery discharges in the nose or eyes. Allergens such as pollen, mites, foods, drugs, and chemicals may trigger nasal discharges⁽²³⁾.

Allergic rhinitis may produce symptoms such as runny noses when the body overreacts to stimuli⁽²⁴⁾.

An animal study published in Veterinary Sciences suggested that CBD may help strengthen a dogs immune system⁽²⁵⁾. Thus, CBD may help relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis in dogs by bolstering their biological defense mechanisms.

Still, more research is needed to substantiate CBDs effects on canine immunity as a possible method to help relieve allergy symptoms such as nasal or ocular discharge.

Meanwhile, a 2014 animal study on animal models examined the effects of cannabis-sourced terpenes on rats with allergies⁽²⁶⁾.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds contained in plants such as hemp plants.

In the study, the terpenes seemed to reduce allergy symptoms in rats. However, more research is needed to determine whether CBD-derived terpenes produce similar effects in dogs.

Dog allergies may trigger asthmatic symptoms. A dogs immune system can become overactive as a response to allergens.

Allergen inhalation tightens a canines airways, resulting in a breathing condition called allergic asthma.

Asthma symptoms in dogs include⁽²⁷⁾:

• Heavy, long-term, or wide-mouth panting
• Coughing or wheezing
• Seeming out of breath
• Pale or blue gums
• Loss of appetite

A 2018 human study suggested that CBD may reduce airway inflammation in allergic asthma⁽²⁸⁾.

The researchers hypothesized that the mechanisms of action included CB1 and CB2 signaling, although more research is needed regarding their effects on lung inflammation.

Results of research and clinical trials on the potential use of CBD to help relieve asthmatic symptoms in dogs are inconclusive⁽²⁹⁾. One reason is the need for Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approval and compliance to conduct such studies.

What Are Dog Allergies?

Canine allergies develop as the immune systems misguided reaction to various foreign substances, such as fleas, some types of food, and environmental allergens⁽³⁰⁾.

Allergy symptoms among dogs may include hives, itchiness, inflamed skin, swelling of the face, sneezing, vomiting, runny eyes, and itchy ears⁽³¹⁾.

Dogs may also experience seasonal allergies due to high pollen counts in the springtime, for instance.

Consulting your dogs veterinarian before administering CBD products is advisable. They can guide you on proper usage, dosage, and possible drug interactions.

How Dogs With Allergies Can Take CBD Oil

When searching for products such as the best CBD oil for dogs, several options are available, including:

• CBD oil and CBD tinctures
• Oral CBD (CBD capsules, CBD softgels, CBD tablets)
• Topical CBD (CBD lotions, CBD creams, CBD salves, CBD balms)
• CBD dog treats

Here are some main options for administering CBD to dogs:

Oral Administration

This option allows you to administer the recommended CBD dose. Adhering to the products label for the number of drops of CBD oil is critical. Dosages may be determined by factors such as your dogs weight, size, and health condition.

Research shows that oral administration of CBD to dogs may produce high efficacy related to absorption⁽³²⁾. CBD oil tinctures are one option.

CBD and Dog Food Blend

One noteworthy benefit of this option is the dog consumes the entire dosage of hemp extract if it consumes its entire meal. The food may conceal the taste and texture of the CBD product, such as CBDs natural, earthy flavor.

A caveat to consider is that wet foods may not blend thoroughly with hemp CBD, significantly altering the foods taste and appearance.

Commence with a small CBD dosage when combined with food, gradually increasing the dosage if it is well tolerated.

CBD and Dog Treat Mixture

Treats like peanut butter with a creamy consistency blend better with CBDs chemical compounds than those with a firmer texture like biscuits.

Ensure you use a dropper to add the recommended dosage of CBD oil for safety and efficacy.

It is also advisable to use organic CBD treats with natural ingredients and minimal additives and preservatives. These options help optimize the health benefits of CBD for your furry friend.

CBD Oil as a Treat

This option allows the dog to perceive CBD in a positive way. CBD dog biscuits and CBD dog cookies are some CBD treats with natural extracts from hemp plants.

Apply the CBD dosage to the treat, and then allow the treat to absorb the oil for one or two minutes.

A recent study showed that CBD-infused soft chews served twice daily to dogs produced a 96.7% average acceptance rate⁽³³⁾.

It is advisable to consult your dogs veterinarian before supplying it with any CBD product.

These general guidelines for administering CBD to dogs may help achieve optimum results:

• Select CBD products produced specifically for dogs
• Provide CBD to your dog, combining it with its breakfast or dinner
• Consider full-spectrum CBD oil with a full range of hemp-sourced compounds
• Follow the dosage indicated on the product label

CBD Oil Dosage for Dogs With Allergies

In the 2019 study mentioned above, researchers examined how dogs reacted to a 12-week regimen of CBD-infused soft chews fed twice daily⁽³⁴⁾.

In the study, the researchers fed each dog 2mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight. Thus, a 13.6kg (30-pound) dog would receive approximately 27mg of CBD.

Begin with a low dosage, and then gradually increase if it remains well tolerated.

How Long CBD Takes to Help With Dog Allergies

No studies have been conducted on the duration of time required for the efficacy of CBD for dog allergies to commence.

According to one study, CBD produced a 13% to 19% bioavailability in three of six dog subjects following oral administration⁽³⁵⁾.

Bioavailability is the extent that a particular substance or drug becomes entirely available for an intended biological destination.

However, additional research is needed on larger sample sizes and different application forms, such as topical.

How Long CBD Will Help With Dog Allergies

No research has been conducted regarding the efficacy duration of CBD for dog allergies.

However, a medical study published in the Frontiers in Veterinary Science investigated CBDs efficacy in dogs with osteoarthritis⁽³⁶⁾. Symptoms of osteoarthritis among dogs include joint pain and stiffness.

Researchers reported the CBD dosages produced an elimination half-life of 4.2 hours. Half-life refers to the time required for a substance to reduce to one half its quantity.

Various factors may impact the efficacy duration of CBD in dogs. For instance, senior dogs are more likely than younger dogs to experience digestive illnesses.

Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Dog Allergies

A 2019 study evaluated the effects of single-dose, high-CBD hemp products on cats and dogs over 12 weeks⁽³⁷⁾.

Two milligrams of CBD per kilogram of body weight administered orally seemed to produce no detrimental medical issues in healthy canines⁽³⁸⁾.

Meanwhile, in a randomized study published in 2021, researchers conducted a safety evaluation of CBD administered orally in healthy dogs⁽³⁹⁾.

Researchers administered a daily dosage of CBD isolate in MCT oil ranging from 1mg to 12mg per kg of body weight,

The CBD dosages were well tolerated among healthy adult dogs. However, the researchers observed no significant alterations in measured safety outcomes throughout the study⁽⁴⁰⁾.

No scientific studies exist on the potential side effects of CBD on canines. Still, based on research conducted on human subjects, dogs may experience similar side effects as humans, including⁽⁴¹⁾:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Lower blood pressure

Pet owners should consult their dogs veterinarian before starting to use CBD products. Dog owners, upon the advice of their veterinarians, should also follow the prescribed dosage for particular CBD products.

Careful monitoring should follow CBD administration to monitor how well tolerated the CBD product is for the dogs.

How to Choose the Best Pet CBD Oil for Dog Allergies

Due to the numerous CBD products on the market, dog owners may struggle to locate the best CBD for pets.

Here are some features to consider when choosing the best CBD oil for your dogs allergies.

• Overall quality: High-quality CBD oils use only organic hemp with no genetically modified organisms (non-GMO).
• Hemp source: Local hemp is an excellent source. States that permit legal hemp cultivation include Colorado, Oregon, and Kentucky⁽⁴²⁾.
• Type of CBD: Full-spectrum CBD contains a full range of cannabis-derived compounds.

Broad-spectrum CBD oil consists of a wide range of compounds, although it typically contains no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

CBD isolates are pure CBD.

• Carrier oil: Versatile carrier oils like hemp-seed oil and coconut oil help dilute essential oils.
• Customer service: Some options include free or discounted shipping and a money-back guarantee.
• Third-party lab testing: A certificate of analysis (COA) should include CBD concentration, CBD potency, all ingredients, and the potential presence of pesticides, heavy metals, and mycotoxins.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by particular molds.

• National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Seal of Quality Assurance: The Quality Seal program is the focus of NASCs efforts to help standardize and elevate the animal health supplement industry⁽⁴³⁾.

NASC awards the Quality Seal to companies that utilize rigorous standards in proving the quality and safety of their products⁽⁴⁴⁾.

Legality of CBD

Some veterinarians in the USA are hesitant to recommend CBD because they believe additional research is required to ensure its efficacy and safety⁽⁴⁵⁾.

CBD for dogs is not approved by the FDA⁽⁴⁶⁾. However, the FDA has also not approved common dietary supplements for pets, such as fish oil. Neither has FDA approved most human-approved prescription drugs that veterinarians frequently prescribe for animals.

Before purchasing CBD products for pets, research any state restrictions imposed on cannabis products for veterinary practices⁽⁴⁷⁾.

You can check the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)s February 2021 State Legislative Update for the latest on legislations concerning cannabis (marijuana and hemp) use in some states⁽⁴⁸⁾.