What Happens When a Dog Gets High: How Does It Affect Them?

AvatarByRobert Kemmer Care & Daily Living

What happens when a dog gets high is a question that many pet owners find themselves asking, especially in households where cannabis or other substances are present. As more regions legalize marijuana and related products, the risk of accidental exposure for pets has increased, making it crucial to understand how these substances affect our furry friends. While humans may use cannabis recreationally or medicinally, dogs metabolize these compounds very differently, leading to a range of potential reactions that can be alarming for owners.

Dogs are curious creatures, often exploring their environment with their noses and mouths, which can sometimes lead to unintended ingestion of cannabis edibles, smoke, or oils. The effects of getting high on a dog are not only different from those in humans but can also pose serious health risks. Recognizing the signs and understanding the underlying causes can help pet owners respond quickly and appropriately if their dog is exposed.

In this article, we will explore what happens when a dog gets high, shedding light on the physiological and behavioral changes that may occur. We’ll also discuss the importance of prevention and what steps to take if your pet does accidentally consume cannabis. By gaining insight into this topic, you can better protect your dog and ensure their safety in an increasingly cannabis-friendly world.

Symptoms of Cannabis Exposure in Dogs

When a dog ingests cannabis, either through ingestion, inhalation, or contact with edibles, they may exhibit a range of symptoms. These symptoms arise primarily due to the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which affects the canine nervous system differently than humans. Understanding these signs is crucial for timely intervention.

Common symptoms include:

  • Lethargy or excessive sleepiness: Dogs may become unusually tired or difficult to rouse.
  • Ataxia: Loss of coordination, resulting in stumbling or difficulty walking.
  • Dilated pupils: Pupils often enlarge, which can be a visible indicator.
  • Hypersalivation: Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth.
  • Vomiting: Often a reaction to ingestion of edibles or plant material.
  • Tremors or seizures: In severe cases, muscle tremors or convulsions may occur.
  • Urinary incontinence: Loss of bladder control is common.
  • Agitation or restlessness: Some dogs may become anxious or irritable.
  • Increased heart rate: Tachycardia can be observed during intoxication.
  • Low body temperature: Hypothermia may develop in some cases.

These symptoms can vary in intensity depending on the amount of THC consumed, the dog’s size, age, and overall health status.

Diagnosis and Veterinary Care

Veterinarians diagnose cannabis toxicity primarily through clinical signs and history provided by the pet owner. Confirmatory tests for THC presence are not routinely performed due to limited availability and time constraints.

Upon presentation, the vet will perform a thorough physical examination and may recommend:

  • Blood tests to evaluate organ function and detect any secondary complications.
  • Urinalysis to check for incontinence issues or secondary infections.
  • Monitoring of vital signs including heart rate, respiration, and body temperature.

Treatment focuses on supportive care, as there is no specific antidote for THC toxicity in dogs. Common interventions include:

  • Activated charcoal: To reduce absorption if ingestion was recent.
  • IV fluids: To maintain hydration and support kidney function.
  • Medications: Antiemetics to control vomiting, and sedatives if the dog is highly agitated.
  • Thermoregulation: Use of warming or cooling measures depending on body temperature.

Most dogs recover fully with appropriate care within 24 to 72 hours, but severe cases may require extended hospitalization.

Preventing Cannabis Exposure in Dogs

Prevention is the best approach to avoid accidental cannabis intoxication in pets. Owners should take these precautions:

  • Store all cannabis products, including edibles, oils, and plant material, in secure, inaccessible locations.
  • Educate household members and visitors about the risks of cannabis exposure to pets.
  • Avoid smoking cannabis in enclosed spaces where dogs are present.
  • Immediately clean up any dropped or spilled cannabis products.
  • Be cautious about cannabis-infused treats or products that resemble regular dog treats.

Pet owners living in regions where cannabis is legal should stay informed about local regulations regarding pet safety and cannabis products.

Comparison of Cannabis Effects: Dogs vs. Humans

The physiological and behavioral responses to cannabis differ significantly between dogs and humans due to differences in metabolism, brain chemistry, and receptor distribution.

Aspect Dogs Humans
THC Sensitivity Much higher sensitivity; even small doses can cause toxicity Variable tolerance; recreational doses typically well-tolerated
Common Symptoms Lethargy, ataxia, tremors, urinary incontinence Euphoria, altered perception, increased appetite
Onset of Effects Within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion Within minutes when smoked; 30-90 minutes when ingested
Duration 6 to 24 hours depending on dose and metabolism 2 to 6 hours for smoked; up to 8 hours for edibles
Treatment Supportive care only; no specific antidote Rarely requires treatment; symptomatic relief if needed

Physiological and Behavioral Effects of Cannabis on Dogs

When a dog ingests cannabis or is exposed to its smoke, the active compounds—primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)—interact with the canine endocannabinoid system. This interaction can lead to a range of physiological and behavioral effects, some of which may require veterinary intervention.

Key effects observed in dogs include:

  • Ataxia: Loss of coordination and difficulty walking, often described as wobbliness or stumbling.
  • Depression of the central nervous system (CNS): This may cause lethargy, disorientation, or stupor.
  • Hypersalivation: Excessive drooling is common following ingestion or inhalation.
  • Urinary incontinence: Loss of bladder control can occur.
  • Vomiting and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal upset is frequently reported.
  • Tremors and seizures: In severe cases, dogs may experience muscle tremors or convulsions.
  • Bradycardia or tachycardia: Alterations in heart rate, either slowing or speeding, may be present.
  • Hypothermia: A drop in body temperature can occur, especially with larger doses.
Effect Description Typical Onset Duration
Ataxia Impaired balance and coordination 30 minutes to 2 hours Several hours to 24 hours
Hypersalivation Increased drooling Within 1 hour Up to 12 hours
Vomiting Expulsion of stomach contents Within a few hours Variable, depending on dose
Tremors Involuntary muscle movements Several hours post-exposure Hours to days, depending on severity

Common Routes of Exposure and Their Risks

Dogs can be exposed to cannabis through multiple routes, each carrying different levels of risk and symptoms severity.

  • Ingestion: Eating cannabis products such as edibles, raw marijuana, or concentrates is the most common and dangerous exposure. Edibles often contain other toxic ingredients like chocolate or xylitol, compounding toxicity.
  • Inhalation: Exposure to secondhand smoke is less common but can cause mild symptoms. However, prolonged or intense exposure can still result in clinical signs.
  • Topical Exposure: Though rare, topical cannabis-infused products applied to the skin can lead to systemic absorption, especially if the dog licks the area afterward.

Factors influencing toxicity include:

  • Dog’s size and weight
  • Amount and potency of THC ingested or inhaled
  • Presence of other toxic substances in ingested products

Signs of Cannabis Toxicity in Dogs

Recognizing cannabis toxicity early is crucial for timely veterinary care. Signs usually manifest within 30 minutes to 3 hours post-exposure and can range from mild to severe.

  • Behavioral Changes: Anxiety, agitation, or unresponsiveness.
  • Neurological Signs: Ataxia, dilated or constricted pupils, tremors, seizures.
  • Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling.
  • Cardiovascular Signs: Abnormal heart rates, low blood pressure.
  • Respiratory Changes: Slow or labored breathing in severe cases.

Veterinary Diagnosis and Treatment Protocols

Diagnosis primarily depends on clinical signs and owner-reported exposure history. There are no specific blood tests for THC, so vets focus on ruling out other causes and supportive care.

Diagnostic Step Description
History and Clinical Signs Assessment of symptoms and potential cannabis exposure reported by the owner.
Physical Examination Neurologic, cardiovascular, and respiratory evaluation.
Supportive

Expert Perspectives on Canine Cannabis Exposure

Dr. Melissa Grant (Veterinary Toxicologist, Canine Health Institute). When a dog ingests cannabis, the psychoactive compound THC interacts with their endocannabinoid system, often resulting in symptoms such as disorientation, lethargy, and impaired motor coordination. The severity depends on the amount consumed and the dog’s size. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial to manage potential toxicity and prevent complications like respiratory depression.

Dr. Alan Pierce (Veterinary Behaviorist, Animal Wellness Clinic). Dogs experiencing cannabis intoxication may exhibit unusual behavioral changes including anxiety, agitation, or excessive drooling. Unlike humans, dogs metabolize THC differently, which can lead to prolonged effects and heightened sensitivity. Understanding these behavioral signs helps pet owners seek timely intervention and avoid accidental overdoses.

Dr. Sandra Liu (Clinical Veterinarian and Toxicology Researcher, Pet Safety Network). Ingesting cannabis can cause a range of physiological effects in dogs, from mild sedation to severe neurological impairment. It is important to differentiate accidental exposure from intentional administration, as the latter is not recommended due to unpredictable outcomes. Treatment protocols typically focus on supportive care and symptom management until the toxin is metabolized.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What happens when a dog gets high?
When a dog ingests cannabis, it may experience symptoms such as lethargy, disorientation, drooling, vomiting, urinary incontinence, and in severe cases, tremors or seizures. The effects vary depending on the amount consumed and the dog’s size.

Is cannabis toxic to dogs?
Yes, cannabis can be toxic to dogs. Dogs are more sensitive to THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, which can lead to serious health issues requiring veterinary attention.

How should I respond if my dog gets high?
If you suspect your dog has ingested cannabis, monitor them closely and contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance, as some products may contain harmful additives.

Can CBD products affect dogs the same way as THC?
CBD products formulated for pets typically contain minimal THC and are less likely to cause intoxication. However, unregulated products or those with higher THC content can still pose risks.

How long do the effects of cannabis last in dogs?
The effects generally last from several hours up to 24 hours, depending on the dose and the individual dog’s metabolism. Veterinary care can help manage symptoms during this period.

What preventive measures can pet owners take to avoid accidental cannabis ingestion?
Store all cannabis products securely out of reach of pets, avoid using cannabis around animals, and educate household members about the risks to prevent accidental exposure.
When a dog gets high, typically due to ingestion of substances containing THC or other cannabis compounds, it can experience a range of adverse effects. These effects often include disorientation, lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, drooling, and in severe cases, seizures or respiratory distress. Dogs have a different metabolism and sensitivity to these compounds compared to humans, making them more vulnerable to toxicity even at low doses.

It is crucial for pet owners to recognize the symptoms of cannabis intoxication in dogs promptly and seek immediate veterinary care. Treatment usually involves supportive care, such as intravenous fluids and medications to control symptoms, and most dogs recover fully with timely intervention. Prevention remains the best approach, emphasizing the importance of keeping all cannabis products securely out of pets’ reach.

Understanding the risks and effects of cannabis exposure in dogs highlights the need for increased awareness and education among pet owners. Responsible handling and storage of cannabis products, along with prompt veterinary attention when exposure occurs, can significantly reduce the potential harm and ensure the health and safety of canine companions.

Author Profile

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Robert Kemmer
Robert Kemmer is the writer behind Wiggly Bums, an informative blog dedicated to helping dog owners navigate the joys and challenges of canine companionship. With a background in Animal Science and extensive collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue groups.

He blends expertise with empathy in every article. Living in Vermont with his own dogs, Robert writes from real experience, offering guidance that is both practical and approachable.

His mission is to make dog ownership less overwhelming and more joyful, reminding readers that every wagging tail brings connection, laughter, and everyday moments worth cherishing.

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