Americans love their dogs. In 2024, over 65 million households had at least one dog. These pet owners spent an average of $1300 yearly for food, care, treats, toys, beds, and more. Once the family pup reaches eight years, they are 30 to 40 percent more likely to develop chronic stifle osteoarthritis (OA), a painful degenerative joint disease.
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This disease may make dogs feel stiff or experience behavioral changes. Their gait could change, activity might decrease, ascending stairs could be difficult, and other movement-related issues. Owners love their four-legged buddies and may seek supplements to alleviate the pain of OA. Recent research found promise in CBD with krill oil as a treatment option for canine family members.
Dogs that were noticeably lame from OA but not constantly struggling joined the double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Chihuahuas, Corgis, Golden Retrievers, and other breeds tapped in, totaling 30 dogs. The pups halted medications and treatments for two weeks before starting the study.
Owners administered a treat made with chicken liver, whole wheat flour, rice bran oil, and egg. This recipe used ingredients that would inspire even a picky pup to eat. Dogs were randomly separated into three groups to receive either the placebo, a 2.5 percent krill oil treat, or one with 2.5 percent full-spectrum CBD oil and 2.5 percent krill oil.
Researchers measured pain levels using the Canine Brief Pain questionnaire. They also tracked the dogs’ stifled joint temperature which measures joint injury level. During the process, three dogs were omitted due to increased joint pain and worsening lameness. Both krill and krill plus CBD oil treat groups better managed pain compared to the placebo.
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These groups experienced lower pain severity scores (PSS) and pain interference scores (PIS) after two weeks of treatment. Dogs that received CBD showed slightly more promising results, but nothing statistically significant. No dogs experienced adverse reactions, showing these supplements could be safe for these beloved pets.
The family dog is as important as humans in the household. As these pets age, their people often seek any way to make them feel better. Thanks to this clinical research, those who are curious might feel safer seeking relief from CBD.
