CBD For Dog PTSD: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD in dogs is a relatively recent discovery. Scientists were not aware dogs could experience symptoms of PTSD and many veterinarians remain hesitant to diagnose dog PTSD due to the lack of research and information available currently. There is also a misconception that only people can experience PTSD. But, that doesn’t make much sense, does it? Dogs have negative experiences just as we do. There are dogs who are believed to have PTSD due to past experiences like dogs who have served in the military or in the police force. So how can we help PTSD in dogs?

What is PTSD in Dogs?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in dogs mirrors its human counterpart in many ways, despite differences in how they experience and express trauma. Just like humans, dogs can develop PTSD after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events can include natural disasters, severe accidents, physical abuse, military or police work, and more. Dogs affected by PTSD may have encountered threats of death, injury, or other forms of violence that leave a lasting psychological impact.

PTSD in dogs is characterized by various symptoms that may manifest differently compared to humans. Dogs with PTSD can exhibit behaviors such as intense fear, avoidance of specific places or objects, hypervigilance, and sudden, extreme responses to triggers resembling the traumatic event. While they may not experience flashbacks or articulate their distress verbally like humans, their behavioral changes and emotional responses indicate deep-seated trauma.

Estimates suggest that approximately 5 to 17% of dogs may experience canine PTSD, although precise figures remain challenging due to the recent recognition of this condition in veterinary medicine. Notably, about 5% of working dogs returning from war zones exhibit symptoms of PTSD, highlighting the profound impact of traumatic experiences on these dedicated animals.

Understanding the causes of PTSD in dogs is crucial yet often complex. Potential triggers include exposure to combat zones, abusive environments such as puppy mills, being involved in dogfighting, severe neglect or abandonment, and trauma from natural disasters. Recognizing the signs of PTSD in dogs and providing appropriate support, including therapeutic interventions like CBD, can significantly improve their quality of life and emotional well-being.

Signs of PTSD in Dogs

PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a debilitating, chronic anxiety disorder following any sort of traumatic event.

According to Janice Huntingford, DVM, “The symptoms of PTSD in dogs are similar to those seen in separation anxiety or other forms of canine anxiety disorders. Elimination, vocalization and destruction are the most commonly reported signs of separation anxiety and of PTSD. Sudden, intense responses to thunderstorms or other noises may manifest as extreme escape behavior in these dogs.” 

PTSD Evident in Military Dogs

The clearest evidence of PTSD can be found by studying military dogs. In 2010, there were dogs sent home from war with symptoms that would resemble PTSD. In 2012, dogs were found to be experiencing symptoms including irritability, depression, and avoidance of people, places, and certain objects. The dogs who were experiencing these symptoms had not displayed any type of PTSD-related signs prior to deployment. Dogs who have experienced symptoms of PTSD have often been sent home due to their refusal to complete the job at hand; the jobs they were trained to do.

According to Dr. Sara Rose Knox, a Veterinarian in the military, “most people know that post-traumatic stress disorder can afflict service men and women, but it can also be apparent in military dogs. As dogs are becoming more and more involved in our war fighting experience—whether they are patrol dogs, working dogs or bomb dogs—they experience the same things we do and they get nervous as well. She continued to state “It’s a new area we are studying. We’ve dedicated a lot of time and education on it. We get constant reminders of what to look for, how to start preliminary treatment and then where to send them if [they need help]. These dogs are considered just like military members, and they get the same care that we do.”

Luckily, there has been some research conducted circling around how the endocannabinoid system, or ECS, can help when it comes to PTSD.

Can Dogs Develop PTSD From Fireworks?

Loud fireworks often serve as triggers for panic disorder (PD) and canine post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). These conditions extend beyond mere fear reactions, often causing unexpected urination, defecation, vocalization, salivation, trembling or shaking, increased or unfocused motor activity, decreased motor activity or freezing, random destruction, and escape behaviors in pets.

Moreover, human anxiety triggered by fireworks can initiate a chain reaction, further exacerbating anxiety in pets. Veterans and survivors of traumatic events, such as shootings, are particularly prone to experiencing PTSD episodes during fireworks holidays. Additionally, children’s fear of fireworks sounds can trigger anxiety in both cats and dogs.

These panic responses stem from the body’s fight-or-flight reaction to acute stress and external stressors. When responding to such stressors, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, prompting a sudden release of hormones. These hormones stimulate the adrenal glands, resulting in the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline, which elevate heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration. Even after the threat subsides, it can take up to an hour for the body to return to its normal state, which explains why many dogs continue to exhibit panting and panic long after the fireworks have ceased.

Thunder and fireworks are among the primary triggers of fear that can lead to trauma, anxiety, and perhaps even PTSD in dogs. The loud noises and suddenness of these events can induce significant fear and stress in your canine companion. Using Full Spectrum Hemp Extract CBD has shown promise in alleviating symptoms of PTSD and fireworks anxiety in dogs. Offering a natural solution to help pets cope during stressful situations.

Supporting Dogs with PTSD Naturally

• Establish a Safe Space for your dog with PTSD
  Witnessing your dog in a traumatized state can be heartbreaking. Establish safe spaces in your home where your dog can retreat to feel secure. Whether it’s a cozy corner with a soft bed or a secluded area shielded from noise and activity, ensure it’s a sanctuary where nothing distressing occurs. By supervising your dog in these spaces, you can help them associate their space with calmness and safety.
• Establish a Consistent Routine
  Dogs thrive on routines, and this holds especially true for dogs dealing with PTSD. Structuring your dog’s day with predictable activities like walks, meals, playtime, and relaxation periods can provide a sense of security. When your dog knows what to expect and when, it reduces anxiety triggered by unpredictability.
• Natural Calming Supplements like CBD for PTSD in Dogs
  Opt for natural calming supplements to alleviate anxiety rather than relying on pharmaceuticals. Try natural remedies like CBD for dog fear, stress and anxiety. Our Calm CBD oil for dogs is formulated with CBD-rich Full Spectrum Hemp Extract, and Lavender essential oil, to help your dog stay calm. These natural compounds support overall health and can help soothe symptoms of PTSD and anxiety in dogs.

By implementing these strategies with compassion and consistency, you can provide valuable support to your dog as they navigate the challenges of canine PTSD.

CBD For Dog PTSD

Research suggests endocannabinoids, like anandamide and 2-AG, play a role in the development, response, and progression of PTSD. These endocannabinoids are particularly important in regulating stress responses. These two endocannabinoids work with both endocannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). 

CB1 receptors have been found to be more critical in this circuit thus far. The CB1 receptors are abundant in the nervous system and are often found within the PTSD circuit of the system. CB1 receptors are also responsible for removing negative memories and fear-based emotions. 

In a study published by the British Journal of Pharmacology, preclinical studies found CBD reduces fear in mice by facilitating the extinction of memories. According to this recent research, CBD was found to disrupt negative memories up to one hour following a fear stimulus. This study found anandamide, CB1, and CB2 receptors responsive during this process.

Despite a lack of research in PTSD, and dog PTSD in particular, there has been a significant amount of research in relation to CBD and anxiety that could prove helpful. An article in Neuropharmacology stated, “in addition to modulating basal anxiety states, recent studies suggest an important role for the endocannabinoid (eCB) and glucocorticoid systems in the modulation of emotional states and extinction of aversive memories in animals.” This leads us to believe CBD can aid in the elimination of aversive memories to treat severe anxiety disorders like PTSD. 

Related: CBD for Anxiety in Dogs

Calming CBD for Dogs

CBD Dog Health’s CALM: CBD Oil for dogs is recommended for dogs struggling with fear-based emotions and reactions. Our CALM CBD oil for dog anxiety, stress and fear is formulated with Full Spectrum Hemp Extract and Lavender essential oil, to help your dog stay calm. 

The cannabinoids within the tincture bind to the CB1 receptor, as discussed above, mimicking a ‘happy compound’ known as serotonin by binding and activating the body’s serotonin receptors. Serotonin receptors (along with serotonin) are responsible for emotional balance and well-being resulting in a potential therapeutic effect for dogs experiencing PTSD. 

One dose of our CALM CBD oil for dogs contains approximately 9mg of CBD. This is our standard recommended dosage for anxiety in dogs. However every dog is different and may need more or less CBD for optimal results. We always recommend starting low and slowly increasing the dosage until you find their optimal CBD dosage for dog fear and anxiety.

Related: CBD Dosage for Dogs

Final Thoughts

Further research is necessary regarding PTSD in dogs, so we are able to better understand and support our beloved pets. While we are waiting for research to catch up, we can use what we know. We know CBD has been shown to help with anxiety and fear based emotions, as well as negative memories, which may benefit dogs with PTSD. With the proper support and supplements, like calming CBD oil for dogs, we can help our dogs live their best life.