How CBD oil can support canine immune system health?

As a dog owner support your pup’s immune health by supplementing their diet with CBD oil. Keep reading to learn how CBD benefits your dog’s immune system. A dog’s immune system is a network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against infection and disease. 

1. Skin and mucous membranes: These act as physical barriers to keep foreign invaders out. 
2. Inflammatory response: Chemical mediators help kill invading microbes and damaged cells. Inflammation is triggered when the immune system is activated.
3. Lymph nodes: These organs contain infection-fighting white blood cells like lymphocytes and filter out germs.
4. Bone marrow and thymus: These produce white blood cells.
5. Spleen: This organ filters blood and contains disease-fighting white blood cells.

A properly functioning immune system identifies and attacks pathogens like viruses, bacteria, and parasites. It also detects and removes abnormal cancerous cells. When the immune system is weakened, dogs are more prone to illnesses.

Research indicates CBD supports the immune system

Reduces inflammation 

CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The endocannabinoid system helps regulate immune cell activity involving inflammatory responses. CBD binds to endocannabinoid receptors and dampens releases of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and immune signaling proteins. This helps reduce unwanted inflammation, calming overactive immune cells.

Acts as an antioxidant

CBD displays antioxidant effects greater than vitamins C and E. Antioxidants help protect cells against damage from reactive oxygen species that lead to inflammation and disease. By neutralizing free radicals, CBD supports overall cell health, including immune cells.

Alters immune cell migration

Studies indicate CBD inhibits immune cell migration. One way the immune system fights infection is by recruiting immune cells like T cells and macrophages to the site of infection via chemical signals. While this is usually protective, disproportionate immune cell activation and migration lead to unnecessary inflammation in tissues like joints. CBD calms this process.

Promotes immune homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the balance within biological systems. The endocannabinoid system plays a major regulatory role in maintaining homeostasis throughout the body. Research shows cbd oil for dogs interacts with endocannabinoid receptors all over the body to promote homeostasis. This helps keep various processes and reactions, like immune system functioning, stabilized. 

Relieves anxiety and stress

Chronic stress and anxiety weaken the immune system over time. Stress triggers the release of the hormone cortisol, the prolonged elevation of which suppresses immune system activity. Human and animal studies demonstrate CBD reduces anxiety and relieves stress by modulating neurotransmitter signaling involved with emotions. This beneficial impact on stress indirectly supports immune function.

CBD for canine immune health

CBD pet products have skyrocketed in popularity for managing everything from anxiety and pain to seizures and cancer. Though more research is still current evidence indicates CBD provides the following immune benefits for dogs:

1. Reduces excessive inflammatory responses 
2. Protects against damage from reactive oxygen species
3. Alters immune cell migration patterns  
4. Helps maintain immune homeostasis
5. Mitigates effects of chronic stress

CBD dosage for dogs

A typical starting dose is around 0.5-5mg CBD per 10 pounds of body weight twice daily to adjust up or down. Work with your vet to determine the best dosage for your pup. Start low and go slow, monitoring for any side effects. Seek veterinary advice before using CBD if your dog is taking any medications or has a serious medical condition.