CBD Oil for Mastiffs – How Cannabis Hemp Tincture Can Help
Mastiffs belong to the breeding group of working dogs, and their lifespans typically last from ten to twelve years. This dog is a very dignified breed, and they are fearless, patient, and docile. Although they were originally bred to be guard dogs, they are not overly aggressive, and can be very gentle and loving toward those who are closest to them. They do keep a firm presence while they’re around strangers and are quick to defend. They can carry an air of caution, and are very loyal, as well as aware, keen, and intelligent, as they are constantly on the watch for anything or anyone that could threaten their owners.
There are many stories about Mastiffs protecting children or choosing sides in domestic disputes. As amazing watchdogs, they claim a reputation. However, the dogs ae also very sensitive, both to their environments and to the moods of those around them. Since they are so prideful and competent, they should be treated gently and never handled with aggression.
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Background of the Mastiff Breed
The Mastiff dog is a descendant of one of the oldest dogs in history, the Molosser. Molossers were powerful and athletic canines that were brought to Europe from Asia, and were used as guarding and hunting dogs. Their lineage goes down through multiple breeds, including Rottweilers and Saint Bernards.
Ancient Mastiff-type dogs were everywhere in history, from ancient Egyptians to the beginning of western civilization in Greece. As conquerors sailed the world, Mastiffs went with them, and were crossbred with multiple dogs, which led to different breeds. For five centuries, they were bred throughout Europe as large guard dogs for estates. By the mid 19th century, the Mastiff was finally brought to the US, and the American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1885. Since then, their popularity and presence has continued to grow.
Health Conditions that Commonly Impact Mastiffs
Despite their size, Mastiffs tend to live for a particularly long time. However, they are often prone to joint issues due to their heavy and large frames. Other conditions that may impact the Mastiff breed include:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that occurs as the photoreceptors in the back of the eye begin to fail. The symptom of this condition in its early stages is difficulty seeing at night. This night-blindness then worsens and causes the Mastiff to lose sight during the day as well. It is important to take your Mastiff to the vet and get PRA diagnosed early if you’re suspicious; PRA can lead to complete blindness if left untreated.
Hip Dysplasia
This condition occurs when there is displacement between the thigh bone and the hip join. It causes severe pain, and symptoms include an abnormal gait, lameness in the legs, and immobility. This condition is hereditary, so have your Mastiff screened to see if they may be particularly prone to hip dysplasia. Luckily, there are treatments, and this condition is not life-threatening.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is the number one cause for seizures in dogs. If your Mastiff is running frantically, barking at nothing, or walking with an abnormal gait, these may be signs that they have epilepsy, and could eventually lead to complete collapse. There is medication available, and luckily this condition is not life-threatening.
Cystinuria
This condition impacts the kidney, and it occurs when the kidney has difficulty filtering the amino acid cysteine out of the urine. During this, kidney stones and infections can develop. Symptoms include urinating frequently and blood in the urine. If you see these signs, take your Mastiff to the vet as soon as possible; a simple urine test can diagnose cystinuria so it can be treated, however, this condition can be extremely painful.
How Can CBD Oil Help Mastiffs?
When your loyal and gentle giant Mastiff becomes affected by any of the conditions above, it can be very troubling. Luckily, beyond medication and surgery, there are options that you can turn to, and CBD oil is one of them. There are several ways that CBD may help with some of the conditions that commonly impact Mastiffs.
CBD has powerful pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects; if your Mastiff has hip dysplasia or cystinuria, conditions that are well known to be extremely painful, CBD oil may help soothe their pain and discomfort and help them become the active and playful dog you know and love again.
CBD also blocks serotonin in the brain, and has anti-anxiety effects. This may help your Mastiff deal with the separation anxiety that they can develop when you leave for any period of time. If you give them CBD oil before you leave, you can help soothe their worries.
Things to Keep in Mind as You Treat Your Mastiff with CBD Oil
While CBD is a viable solution for many dogs, including Mastiffs, dogs require a smaller dosage than humans and can be a lot more sensitive to the oil. This can be especially overlooked with large Mastiffs; your dog really doesn’t need very much CBD in order to experience the effects.
The exact amount that you should give your dog will depend on their condition, size, and the strength of the oil. Since CBD is non-toxic and non-psychoactive, there is no danger of causing an overdose, especially in large Mastiffs. However, you should always be careful, and take note of how your dog reacts, before you give them more.
If your gentle and giant Mastiff suffers from many of the conditions that tend to impact dogs, CBD is a viable solution. To be clear, it won’t get your dog “buzzed” or high; CBD is safe and not psychoactive. A lot of research has been conducted involving CBD and its benefits. Not only does it help soothe any separation anxiety that your Mastiff may experience, it can also reduce inflammation throughout the body and help with their pain, especially if they are affected by any of the conditions that tend to impact the loyal and guarding breed. CBD has been widely accepted as a safe and well-tolerated medicine for both humans and dogs.
