Just as it does for you, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a vital role in regulating a range of processes in your dog – including sleep, appetite, mood, and maintaining a stable internal environment, known as homeostasis.
The ECS has three core elements:
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Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds that are crucial to the ECS and maintaining balance;
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Receptors that the endocannabinoid compounds bind to like a lock-and-key;
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Enzymes that regulate the endocannabinoid levels by generating the production of crucial endocannabinoid compounds, or breaking the compounds down.
If a dog's ECS is out of balance, they may display negative behaviors, including signs of stress. When your dog meets someone new at the park, for instance, maybe their heart begins to beat rapidly and they start to tremble. Once the perceived danger passes, their body produces increased levels of endocannabinoids to help calm them back down. When this system is not working properly, your dog may exhibit persistent anxious behavior.