Topical CBD for Dogs: How it Works & How to Use It

November 9, 2023

Written By: Earth Buddy Team

Great Dane having Earth Buddy’s Paw & Skin balm applied to her paws. CBD balms for dogs provides targeted relief from cracked paws or skin irritation.

Topical CBD products are typically formulated as balms, salves, or lotions tailored for external application. These formulations stand in contrast to full-spectrum CBD tinctures, which are liquid-based and intended for internal consumption. Instead of administering orally, a topical CBD for dogs is designed to be applied directly onto their skin or fur. This method targets specific areas of concern on the body’s exterior, providing localized assistance for occasional discomfort, rather than delivering the compound systemically as liquid dosing would.

When and Why to Use Topical CBD for Dogs

A topical CBD balm or salve for dogs isn’t the best option for every situation. For example, if you’re trying to help your dog maintain normal emotional balance, a full spectrum CBD oil tincture is recommended. That being said, there are situations where a balm or salve containing full spectrum hemp extract can be helpful.

Many pet owners might wonder why they should opt for a full-spectrum topical CBD salve for their dog instead of conventional creams available at local pet retailers. A significant consideration is the emphasis on natural constituents in full-spectrum CBD products.

Instead of applying products with a complex array of unfamiliar ingredients to your dog’s skin or nose—some of which could pose potential risks—you have the option of selecting a full-spectrum topical CBD product formulated with natural components like shea butter, natural waxes, or coconut oil. This approach minimizes the exposure of your dog’s skin to potentially harmful chemicals.

Stimulating the Endocannabinoid System

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is an intricate network present within the body, comprising a multitude of receptors and transmitters that permeate various systems, including the skin. When CBD is applied topically, it interacts with these ECS receptors located within the skin’s layers. This interaction can lead to a host of potential benefits.

Specifically, topical CBD has the potential to help maintain normal moisture content of skin, soothe skin-related issues associated with seasonal allergies, support normal inflammatory processes, and help achieve a soft, silky, shiny and healthy coat. As the skin is the body’s first line of defense against external factors like bug bites, optimizing its function through interventions like topical CBD application can have wide-reaching implications for supporting skin health.

Black coated dog having Earth Buddy’s Skin & Paw balm applied to paw pads to provide targeted relief from dry or cracked paws.

Supporting Coat Health with CBD for Dogs with External Irritation

Tinctures undeniably play a key role in promoting a healthy coat. However, when precision is needed for addressing specific affected areas or issues, balms rise as the preferred choice. They can be adeptly applied to a distinct affected area, ensuring the components are delivered right where they’re needed. By spreading a thin, even layer of the salve, it will absorb into the canine’s skin without any undesirable or greasy aftermath.

Most companies that offer CBD-based balms often keep a dog’s safety in mind, which is one of the reasons many only utilize completely natural ingredients. Thus, if a dog, in their natural curiosity, happens to lick the spot you just applied salve to, it won’t lead to any harmful consequences.

To ensure the full efficacy of the topical CBD, it’s important to keep the dog occupied for around 15 minutes after application, granting the product ample time for absorption.

CBD Salves and Antioxidants for Pets

Similar to full-spectrum CBD tinctures, full-spectrum topical CBD salves provide antioxidants. Antioxidants have been shown to aid in the elimination of unstable oxygen molecules called

free radicals which helps decrease oxidative damage.

Incorporating full-spectrum CBD, whether through tinctures or topical salves, provides the benefits of a range of cannabinoids and terpenes that work synergistically. Additionally, the presence of antioxidants in topical salves not only supports normal cell function but also provides nutrients for a healthy body.

Brown coated dog having a CBD balm rubbed on paws to help with cracked paws. Topical cbd for dogs can also relieve itching and hot spots.

CBD for Dogs Can Help With Dog Paws

Topical CBD formulations are gaining recognition for their prospective advantages in providing support for seasonal skin allergies, especially for dog paws. Special attention is paid to topical CBD’s ability to maintain normal moisture content of skin while supporting the immune system.

CBD, renowned for promoting normal inflammatory pathways, can support pets with seasonal allergies. Regular application of CBD-infused products, when combined with other agents, can help dogs with occasional discomfort, providing help for restless animals.

Bypass the Digestive System in Pets

When administered orally, such as via a tincture, CBD must navigate the complexities of the digestive system. While direct application to a dog’s gums can facilitate quicker absorption through the capillaries present there, any unabsorbed portion subsequently undergoes digestion. As it progresses through the various stages of the digestive process, there’s potential for diminution of the compound’s potency due to breakdown or loss.

Conversely, topical CBD formulations are designed for direct skin absorption, effectively circumventing the digestive tract. This method of direct dermal absorption not only preserves the compound’s efficacy but also helps it work faster, as the need for digestive processing is eliminated.

Earth Buddy’s Paw and Skin Balm for Pets

Yellow lab sniffing an Earth Buddy Trial size Paw & Balm for dogs and cats with dry noses. Topical cbd can help with irritated skin and dry noses.

Earth Buddy’s Paw and Skin Balm is an awesome product with all organic vegan ingredients to keep your dogs safe and happy. The blend of ingredients is purposefully blended to ensure optimal benefit to your pet. Here are the ingredients:

The active ingredient in the balm is Whole Plant Hemp Extract containing CBD, cannabinoids and terpenes. The benefits outlined above are among the benefits of topical CBD for dogs.

The other ingredients in the balm possess benefits of their own adding even more benefits to your dog’s health and wellness routine.

  • Organic coconut oil: Coconut oil, when incorporated into CBD salve for dogs, offers a range of benefits. It provides essential fatty acids for a healthy coat and nutritional support for healthy immune function.
  • Organic mango butter: Organic mango butter, when integrated into CBD salve for dogs, is renowned for promoting the body’s innate resistance to pathogens. Packed with essential fatty acids and antioxidants, mango butter may help protect body cells and tissues, helping keep dogs in peak condition. When combined with CBD, the natural qualities of mango butter can work synergistically with the compounds in the salve, helping with occasional discomfort.
  • Organic beeswax: Beeswax is a natural wax that’s free from parabens. Rich in vitamin A, beeswax promotes cellular reproduction to support skin health.

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