Does CBD Help Dogs With Fireworks?

[Updated March 3, 2023]

Independence Day is just around the corner. And while for many people, it means gatherings with loved ones, barbeques, and colorful, loud fireworks, not all dogs will feel so thrilled about this noisy holiday.

There’s no question that fireworks can be very distressing for many dogs due to the loud noises, flashing lights, and strong smells. After all, your pup doesn’t have any context for why these sudden, loud sounds start occurring so repeatedly - all they know is the fear amplified by each next bang.

This, in turn, can pose a serious threat, as the fear of fireworks frequently leads to some of our furry friends fleeing to escape these loud bangs. Unfortunately, as a result, more pets are lost on July 4th than on any other day of the year. 

It's only natural that dog owners want to help their pups manage their reactions when fireworks begin. If you've been using CBD for your personal stress support, you now may be wondering if CBD can help agitated dogs with fireworks, too. After all, it's always better to come prepared.

Let’s look at how CBD can be incorporated into a pet anxiety relief plan to keep your pet relaxed and safe!

 

How CBD Can Help Your Pet

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the hemp plant that has been used to help manage stress and discomfort in both humans and animals. While more research in this field is needed, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence to back up the potential of CBD to help anxious dogs with fireworks and other loud noises. 

Just take a look at some of the reviews for our CBD dog chews, where users describe CBD helping their dogs cope with the loud sound of storms and rain. Some users also state that our CBD products for pets worked wonders in terms of helping their dogs cope with separation anxiety.

CBD can help promote relaxation by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in regulating various physiological processes, including stress response as well as appetite and mood changes, and maintaining overall balance in the body. Considering that some dogs may experience a loss of appetite during or after times of stress, CBD can prove helpful in this regard.

CBD has also been shown to produce calming effects, which may help your dog feel at peace and less agitated during fireworks.

 

What to Know Before Giving CBD Oil to Your Pup

While every pet has its own quirks and unique needs, there are some best practices to ensure that CBD really helps your pet feel better. 

If you have the time, start giving your dog CBD oil daily for at least a week prior to the event. This way, you’ll be able to build some CBD up in its system, which can help manage its stress levels more effectively. When the 4th of July comes, you can increase the portion size to ensure your pup gets adequate relief.

Although CBD is considered safe and well-tolerated by pets, it's still important to give your dog the correct amount of CBD, as too much CBD can cause mild side effects, such as drowsiness, lethargy, or dry mouth.

Because dogs come in so many breeds, you will need to experiment a little before you find an optimal portion size that works for your dog's size. Always monitor each new serving you give your pet. Observe for any allergic or adverse reactions, and be sure to contact your veterinarian if you notice some.

Giving your pup traditional CBD oil can be challenging, so you might try to mix it with food or look into more convenient options, such as CBD treats for dogs. For instance, our beef-flavored dog chews contain pre-measured servings of CBD oil, meaning you can easily provide your pet with its daily CBD intake while also satisfying its taste buds. It's a win-win!

It's important to note that not all CBD products are created equal, and it's important to choose a high-quality product that is specifically formulated for pets.

As a responsible dog owner, you should also consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog CBD. The substance can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions.

Want to Learn More? Find out more about giving pets CBD.

Full-Spectrum vs. Broad-Spectrum CBD Oil

When it comes to choosing between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD for your dog, it's important to understand the differences between the two.

Full-spectrum CBD contains all of the natural compounds found in the hemp plant, including other cannabinoids like THC - the compound that produces the "high" associated with marijuana. However, the amount of THC in full-spectrum CBD is typically very low (less than 0.3%), so such a product shouldn't produce any intoxicating effect.

Broad-spectrum CBD, on the other hand, also contains all of the natural compounds found in the hemp plant except for THC, which has been removed. This makes it a better choice for dog owners who don't want any THC in their pet's system.

Ultimately, the decision between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD for your dog may come down to personal preference and your dog's individual needs. Some people believe that full-spectrum CBD provides a more effective "entourage effect" due to the presence of all of the natural compounds, while others prefer the peace of mind that comes with using broad-spectrum CBD that has had the THC removed.

Use in Combination with Other Methods

Overall, CBD may be one tool to help your dog cope with fireworks, but it should be used in combination with other strategies.  Here are some tips to help your dog cope with fireworks better:

• Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Find a quiet room in your home where your dog feels safe and secure. Put some familiar and comforting items in the room, such as their bed, toys, and weighted blankets.

• Keep your dog distracted. Play calming music or white noise to help drown out the sound of the fireworks. Give your dog interactive toys or treats to keep them occupied and focused on something positive.

• Consider using a calming aid. There are a variety of calming aids available, such as calming collars, sprays, and supplements. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which option may be best for your dog.

• Stay with your dog. Your presence can be comforting to your dog during fireworks. Stay with them and offer them comforting words and physical touch.

• Be proactive. Try to anticipate when fireworks will occur and plan accordingly. For example, take your dog for a long walk or playtime earlier in the day, so they are already tired and more relaxed when the fireworks begin.

• Consider desensitization training. Over time, you can help your dog become less afraid of fireworks by exposing them to the sounds and sights in a controlled and gradual manner. This should be done under the guidance of a professional dog trainer or behaviorist.

Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. It's important to be patient and understanding with your dog during this time. If your pet's anxiety is severe or persists, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for individual advice.

Final Thoughts

While CBD may help to keep your pet calm and collected on Independence Day, don’t forget to take other steps to keep them happy and safe. Be sure your yard is enclosed and escape-proof in case your furry friend is spooked and wants to make a run for it.

If you do plan to attend a fireworks show, leave your dog at home. The risk of it running away during the show is too high to gamble. Leave the lights on, and a TV or radio running, and prepare a comfortable environment for your pup to stay in. 

Of course, only choose reputable, high-quality pet CBD products. You don’t want to give your furry friend CBD filled with contaminants, so be sure to look for a brand that tests its CBD at a third-party laboratory to verify its purity.

At Thryv Organics, all of our CBD is organically farmed and manufactured in Colorado, as well as third-party lab tested. Stock up with our CBD Pet Collection today!