Dog Ate Marijuana? Here’s What You Need to Know and Do Immediately
As marijuana becomes more accessible in Colorado, cases of dogs accidentally ingesting cannabis are rising. While marijuana is generally safe for humans, it can be toxic to pets, especially when consumed in high doses or as edibles containing harmful ingredients like chocolate or xylitol. If your dog ate marijuana, here’s what you need to know and how you can help your pet recover.
Why Marijuana Can Be Harmful to Dogs
- THC toxicity affects dogs more severely than humans because their brains have more cannabinoid receptors.
- Symptoms can range from mild disorientation to severe medical emergencies.
- Small breeds and puppies are at higher risk due to body weight differences.
How Dogs Get Exposed to Marijuana
Dogs are naturally curious and often eat things they shouldn’t. Marijuana exposure can happen in several ways:
- Edibles – Dogs may eat cannabis-infused treats, which often contain chocolate, xylitol, or artificial sweeteners, making them even more dangerous.
- Raw cannabis – Loose marijuana flower or leaves left out can be ingested, leading to THC toxicity.
- Secondhand smoke – Inhaling marijuana smoke can cause mild symptoms, though ingestion poses a more serious risk.
Because dogs metabolize THC differently, even small amounts can have significant effects.
Is Marijuana Poisoning Fatal for Dogs?
Marijuana toxicity is rarely fatal, but it can lead to severe symptoms requiring emergency care.
Factors that increase risk:
- Small dogs and puppies – More affected due to lower body weight.
- Higher THC consumption – Stronger symptoms with larger doses.
- Edibles with other toxins – Chocolate, xylitol, or artificial sweeteners are all dangerous for pets to consume.
Most dogs recover within 24-48 hours, but without proper care, symptoms like seizures, vomiting, or extreme lethargy can escalate. If your dog shows severe signs, call your veterinarian immediately.
How to Tell if Your Dog Ate Marijuana
Dogs can’t tell you when they feel unwell, so recognizing the signs of marijuana toxicity is crucial. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to 3 hours after ingestion and can range from mild to severe.
If your dog accidentally eats marijuana, you may notice:
- Lethargy – Your dog may seem unusually tired or unresponsive.
- Incoordination – Trouble walking, stumbling, or difficulty standing.
- Dilated pupils – Eyes may appear larger or more sensitive to light.
- Sensitivity to sound or touch – Easily startled or reacting unusually.
- Drooling – Excessive saliva or difficulty swallowing.
These early symptoms can escalate if left untreated, so monitor closely.
Severe Symptoms Requiring Immediate Vet Attention
Some dogs experience dangerous side effects that require urgent medical care:
- Vomiting – Can lead to dehydration or aspiration.
- Seizures – Uncontrolled shaking or convulsions.
- Loss of consciousness – Your dog may appear unresponsive.
- Low blood pressure – Weakness, collapse, or a slow heart rate.
- Body temperature drop – Can lead to life-threatening hypothermia.
If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
How Long Symptoms Last
- Mild cases typically resolve in 24-48 hours as THC leaves the system.
- Severe cases or synthetic marijuana ingestion may last longer and require extended treatment.
Monitoring your dog and providing supportive care can help them recover safely.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Marijuana
If you think your dog has ingested marijuana, acting quickly can prevent serious complications. Follow these three essential steps to ensure your pet gets the care they need.
1. Figure Out What Was Ingested
Before taking action, try to identify the type of cannabis product your dog ate. This helps veterinarians assess the severity of toxicity.
- Edibles – May contain chocolate, xylitol, or artificial sweeteners, which are toxic to dogs.
- Dried cannabis – Less dangerous than edibles but still causes THC toxicity.
- Oils and concentrates – Highly potent and can cause more intense symptoms.
If your dog ate an edible, check the ingredients list for any additional toxic substances.
2. Contact a Vet Immediately
Call your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline as soon as possible. Be ready to provide:
- Your dog’s weight – Smaller dogs are more affected.
- The type and amount of cannabis ingested.
- Any symptoms already present.
Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a vet—this can cause complications, especially if your dog is disoriented.
3. Supportive Care at Home (For Mild Cases)
For mild cases, your vet may recommend monitoring at home:
- Keep your dog in a quiet, dark room to reduce sensory overload.
- Provide plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Watch for worsening symptoms like seizures, excessive vomiting, or unresponsiveness—if these occur, go to an emergency vet immediately.
How Veterinarians Treat Marijuana Toxicity
If your dog has ingested marijuana, a veterinarian will assess the situation and provide appropriate treatment based on the severity of symptoms. Prompt medical intervention can help your pet recover safely.
Veterinarians use a combination of clinical symptoms and diagnostic tests to confirm THC poisoning.
- Urine tests – Can detect THC in a dog’s system.
- Physical examination – Checks for dilated pupils, lethargy, and incoordination.
- Owner report – Be honest about what your dog consumed; vets are there to help, not judge.
Because marijuana toxicity symptoms mimic other medical conditions, quick and accurate diagnosis is essential.
Treatment depends on the amount ingested and the severity of symptoms. Common approaches include:
- IV fluids – Helps flush THC from the system and prevent dehydration.
- Activated charcoal – Binds to THC and limits further absorption in the stomach.
- Anti-nausea or seizure medications – Prescribed if vomiting, tremors, or seizures occur.
Mild cases may resolve with outpatient care, but more severe cases require intensive treatment.
When Hospitalization is Necessary
Some dogs need round-the-clock monitoring in a veterinary hospital, especially if they show severe lethargy or coma, uncontrolled seizures, persistent vomiting, or dangerously low blood pressure and/or body temperature.
In critical cases, hospitalization ensures constant care and a safer recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How common is marijuana poisoning in dogs?
Cases of marijuana toxicity in dogs have been increasing as cannabis becomes more widely available.
Reports show a 300% rise in cases over the past five years, with emergency vets seeing more incidents involving edibles and raw cannabis ingestion.
Can different dog breeds react differently to THC?
Yes. Small dogs and puppies are at a higher risk due to their lower body weight. Even a small amount of THC can lead to severe symptoms in smaller breeds, while larger dogs may require a higher dose to experience toxicity.
What if I’m not sure if my dog ate marijuana?
If you suspect exposure, monitor for symptoms such as lethargy, incoordination, dilated pupils, or excessive drooling. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian—early intervention can prevent more severe complications.
How long does marijuana toxicity last?
Most dogs recover within 24-48 hours, but symptoms can persist longer in cases of high THC doses or synthetic marijuana ingestion.
Recovery time depends on how much was ingested and what supportive care your dog receives.
Can dogs die from eating weed?
While fatalities are rare, marijuana edibles containing chocolate, xylitol, or artificial sweeteners significantly increase the risk.
Dogs that consume large amounts of concentrated THC can also suffer severe complications without treatment.
Can secondhand marijuana smoke affect my dog?
Yes. Inhaling marijuana smoke can cause mild to moderate symptoms like drowsiness, disorientation, or incoordination. Avoid exposing your pet to cannabis smoke, as prolonged inhalation may lead to respiratory issues.
