For many dogs, a car ride is more than just a trip—it’s a source of stress. Whether it’s whining, lip licking, or increased heart rates, the signs are clear: travel can be overwhelming for our furry friends. A recent study published in Scientific Reports explores the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) to help dogs cope with stress, particularly during car journeys.
Car Travel: A Common but Stressful Event for Dogs
Car travel is a routine part of life for many dogs, whether for vet visits, walks, or training sessions. However, studies show that nearly 30% of pet dogs exhibit stress-related behaviors during car rides. From whining and yawning to elevated cortisol levels, the physiological and behavioral signs of stress are unmistakable. For transport-naïve dogs—those unfamiliar with car travel—this stress can persist even after repeated exposures, as shown by previous research.
Can CBD Make a Difference?
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound derived from hemp, has been gaining popularity for its potential to reduce stress and anxiety. While its benefits for humans are well-documented, research into its effects on dogs is still emerging. This study sought to determine whether daily doses of THC-free CBD could mitigate stress in dogs exposed to repeated car travel over six months.
The Study: Testing CBD’s Effectiveness
Researchers conducted a blinded, parallel design study with 19 dogs, exposing them to car rides at four intervals: week 0, week 8, week 16, and week 24. The dogs were divided into two groups: one receiving daily CBD capsules (4 mg/kg of body weight) and the other a placebo. Key stress indicators, including serum cortisol, heart rate, whining, and lip licking, were measured before, during, and after each car ride.
Findings:
- Immediate Benefits: CBD significantly reduced cortisol levels, whining, and lip licking during the first three test intervals, indicating reduced stress compared to the placebo group.
- Diminished Effects Over Time: By week 24, the effects of CBD had leveled off, possibly due to habituation to either the CBD or the car travel itself.
- Persistent Stress: Despite CBD treatment, car rides remained a stressful event for all dogs, underscoring the need for a multi-faceted approach to stress management.
Why CBD Shows Promise
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate stress responses. This study demonstrated that CBD can attenuate some stress indicators, particularly in the short term. However, it’s clear that CBD alone isn’t a magic fix; it works best when combined with other interventions, such as behavior modification or gradual desensitization.
What Does This Mean for Pet Owners?
If your dog struggles with car travel, CBD might be a helpful tool, but it’s essential to use it wisely:
- Timing is Key: Administer CBD about two hours before stressful events to maximize its effectiveness.
- Use High-Quality Products: Ensure the CBD is THC-free and specifically designed for pets.
- Combine Strategies: Pair CBD with training or other stress-reduction techniques for long-term results.
- Consult Your Vet: Always seek veterinary guidance to ensure the correct dosage and safety for your dog.
Looking Ahead
While this study highlights CBD’s potential to reduce canine stress, its limitations—such as the small sample size and specific testing conditions—call for further research. Future studies should examine:
- The effects of CBD on pet dogs with known travel anxiety.
- Alternative dosages and administration methods.
- Long-term impacts of daily CBD use.
CBD as Part of a Broader Solution
CBD shows promise as a tool for reducing stress in dogs, especially during short-term stressors like car travel. However, it’s not a standalone solution. A comprehensive approach that includes behavioral training and a supportive environment will yield the best results for canine well-being. For pet owners seeking ways to ease their dog’s nerves, CBD might just be the extra tail wag of comfort they’re looking for.
Source: Scientific Reports
Jan loves Wildlife and Animals and is one of the founders of Animals Around The Globe. He holds an MSc in Finance & Economics and is a passionate PADI Open Water Diver. His favorite animals are Mountain Gorillas, Tigers, and Great White Sharks. He lived in South Africa, Germany, the USA, Ireland, Italy, China, and Australia. Before AATG, Jan worked for Google, Axel Springer, BMW and others.
