Can you get a dog high? Yes, dogs can become intoxicated or “high” if they ingest substances containing psychoactive compounds like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main active chemical in marijuana. This intoxication is not intentional by the dog and is always a dangerous accident that requires immediate attention.
This detailed guide explores the serious risks associated with canine intoxication methods, whether accidental or deliberate, focusing heavily on the dangers of THC exposure in pets. We will cover signs of dog drug overdose, what to do if your dog ate edibles what to do, and the vital steps for treating THC poisoning in pets. Our goal is to provide a clear dog owner guide to accidental pet intoxication.
The Grave Reality of Canine Intoxication
Dogs should never intentionally be given substances that cause intoxication. Unlike humans, a dog’s body processes drugs very differently. Even small amounts of psychoactive compounds can lead to severe illness or death. The primary concern revolves around cannabis products, as they are increasingly common in human households.
The Chemistry of Danger: THC vs. CBD
It is crucial to distinguish between the two main compounds found in the cannabis plant: THC and CBD.
CBD Oil vs THC for Dogs
Many owners look into cannabis products for pets, often confusing the therapeutic potential of CBD with the intoxicating danger of THC.
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): This is the psychoactive part of the plant. It binds strongly to cannabinoid receptors in the dog’s brain and body, leading to severe central nervous system effects. High levels of THC cause true intoxication.
- CBD (Cannabidiol): This compound is generally not intoxicating. Many studies suggest CBD has calming effects without the “high.” However, unregulated CBD products can still pose risks if they contain hidden THC contamination. Always use veterinary-approved products if considering CBD.
| Substance | Psychoactive? | Primary Risk to Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| THC (Marijuana) | Yes | Severe CNS depression, wobbling, seizures. |
| CBD (Hemp-derived) | No (in pure form) | Gastrointestinal upset, potential interaction with other meds. |
Recognizing Marijuana Toxicity in Dogs
Accidental ingestion is common because many edibles smell appealing (like baked goods or candies). Recognizing marijuana toxicity in dogs quickly is the key to a better outcome.
Signs of Dog Drug Overdose
Symptoms usually appear within 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion. They can range from mild distress to life-threatening emergencies.
Neurological Symptoms
The cannabis effects on canine nervous system are pronounced. Dogs often show behaviors that look like they are severely drunk or disoriented.
- Extreme lethargy or sedation.
- Staggering, stumbling, or an inability to walk (ataxia).
- Hypersensitivity to noise or touch.
- Tremors or muscle twitching.
- In severe cases, seizures or coma.
Physical Symptoms
Other clear indicators point toward intoxication.
- Vomiting or drooling excessively.
- Low heart rate (bradycardia) or, sometimes, a very fast heart rate.
- Low body temperature (hypothermia).
- Urinary incontinence (dribbling urine).
- Dilated pupils that do not react well to light.
If you notice any of these signs, assume the worst. Time is critical for effective treatment.
Accidental Ingestion Scenarios
How do these exposures happen? Accidental marijuana ingestion in dogs happens frequently in homes where cannabis is present.
Edibles: The Greatest Threat
Edibles are the most dangerous form of cannabis exposure for pets. They often contain high concentrations of THC baked into products that taste good to dogs, like brownies, cookies, or gummies.
Why Edibles Are So Dangerous:
- High Potency: Edibles often contain concentrated doses of THC oil or butter.
- Hidden Ingredients: Chocolate, xylitol (a sweetener toxic to dogs), macadamia nuts, and high levels of fat found in baked goods add secondary dangers on top of the THC poisoning.
Other Forms of Exposure
Dogs can also encounter THC through:
- Flower or Bud: Ingesting dried marijuana plants or residue.
- Vaporizer Cartridges: Chewing on or licking residue from vaping pens.
- Tinctures or Oils: Lapping up spilled liquid concentrates.
Immediate Action: What To Do If Your Dog Ate Edibles
If you suspect your dog consumed any product containing THC, do not wait for severe symptoms to appear.
Step 1: Safety First
Keep your dog calm. Move them away from any remaining substance so they cannot ingest more. If they are severely sedated or convulsing, secure them in a small, safe area away from stairs or hard objects.
Step 2: Call for Help Immediately
Do not try home remedies first. You need professional guidance.
- Call your primary veterinarian immediately.
- If your regular vet is closed, call the nearest 24-hour emergency animal hospital.
- Contact a pet poison control hotline (e.g., ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or Pet Poison Helpline). These services usually charge a fee but provide expert toxicology advice.
When calling, be ready to provide clear information:
- Your dog’s weight and estimated age.
- What your dog ate (edible, flower, oil).
- How much time has passed since ingestion.
- The approximate amount ingested (if known).
- The THC concentration of the product, if the packaging is available.
Step 3: Follow Veterinary Instructions
The professional will guide you on whether you need to induce vomiting or proceed directly to the clinic. Never induce vomiting without explicit instruction from a veterinarian, as this can be dangerous if done incorrectly or if the dog is already lethargic or convulsing.
Veterinary Care for Intoxicated Dogs
When you arrive at the clinic, the team will focus on stabilization and decontamination. This is what veterinary care for intoxicated dog treatment usually involves.
Decontamination
If ingestion happened very recently (usually within 1-2 hours), vets may try to remove the substance from the stomach.
- Inducing Vomiting (Emesis): A veterinarian uses specific drugs (like apomorphine) to safely make the dog vomit the stomach contents.
- Activated Charcoal: This substance is given orally to bind to the remaining toxins in the digestive tract, preventing further absorption into the bloodstream. Charcoal may be given in multiple doses.
Supportive Care
Since there is no direct “antidote” for THC poisoning, treatment focuses on managing symptoms until the body clears the drug.
- IV Fluids: Intravenous fluids help flush the toxins out of the system via urination. They also help maintain hydration and blood pressure.
- Temperature Regulation: Monitoring and warming the dog if they develop hypothermia is vital.
- Monitoring Vitals: Constant checks on heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure are crucial.
- Medication for Symptoms: Medications might be used to control severe tremors, agitation, or seizures. In some very severe cases, dogs might need short-term hospitalization and close observation until they are fully recovered.
Fathoming the Cannabis Effects on Canine Nervous System
THC acts much more powerfully on dogs than humans. Dogs have a higher density of cannabinoid receptors in their brains. This means a small dose causes a much more profound effect on their coordination, reflexes, and awareness.
The Duration of Intoxication
The length of time a dog stays “high” depends on the dose, the route of ingestion (oils absorb faster than baked goods), and the dog’s metabolism.
- Mild cases might resolve in 12 to 24 hours.
- Severe cases requiring intensive care can last for several days while the dog remains deeply sedated or unstable.
Why Intentional Highs Are Cruel and Dangerous
It is important to state clearly: attempting any of the canine intoxication methods intentionally is abusive and poses severe health risks. Dogs cannot consent, and their physiological response to these drugs is not a pleasant or safe “high.” It is a toxic overdose event.
When owners seek ways to “get a dog high,” they often misunderstand the depth of the toxicity. What might seem like mild sedation to a person is often life-threatening depression of the central nervous system in a dog.
Protecting Your Pet: A Proactive Approach
The best way to manage THC poisoning is to prevent it entirely. This requires vigilance from every person in the household.
Secure Storage is Non-Negotiable
Treat all cannabis products—flower, edibles, oils, tinctures, and even topical creams—like strong medications or poisons.
- Lock it Up: Store all products in high, locked containers or safes that dogs cannot access, even if they can jump high.
- Trash Management: Ensure all waste, including vape cartridges, wrappers, and butts from joints or blunts, are immediately secured in a lidded, outdoor trash receptacle. Dogs frequently scavenge for discarded edibles in low bins.
Educating the Household
Everyone who enters your home must know the rules regarding pet safety around these substances. Guests, babysitters, and roommates must understand that leaving a partially eaten gummy bear on a coffee table can be fatal to a dog.
This information serves as a vital part of a comprehensive dog owner guide to accidental pet intoxication. Prevention is always easier and safer than emergency treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for a dog to show signs after eating marijuana?
Signs usually start within 30 minutes to an hour after eating the substance. The speed depends on whether the stomach is full and what form the substance was in (oils absorb faster than solids).
Can a dog die from eating marijuana edibles?
Yes, a dog can die from THC poisoning, especially from highly concentrated edibles or if the edible contained other toxic ingredients like xylitol or large amounts of chocolate. High doses cause severe respiratory or cardiac depression, leading to death.
Is CBD oil safe if my dog accidentally ate THC edibles?
No. If your dog ate edibles containing THC, you need emergency veterinary care for intoxicated dog. Adding CBD oil will not counteract the THC poisoning and may just add another substance to their system, potentially complicating treatment or diagnosis. Focus solely on getting professional veterinary help.
What are the long-term effects of THC poisoning in dogs?
Most dogs fully recover from acute THC intoxication with proper veterinary care. Long-term effects are rare unless the dog suffered severe secondary complications like prolonged seizures or severe hypothermia. Repeated exposure, however, could potentially lead to neurological issues over time, though this is less studied than acute poisoning.
If my dog ate a tiny amount, do I still need to call the vet?
Yes. Because the potency of products varies wildly, and dogs are so sensitive, even a tiny amount of a concentrated product can cause severe effects. Always call the vet or poison control helpline right away to assess the risk based on the product’s THC concentration and your dog’s weight.