Dog Ate Weed or Marijuana?

THC is toxic to dogs. Marijuana edibles are especially dangerous because they often contain both THC and chocolate or xylitol. Get veterinary help quickly.

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Emergency

THC is toxic to dogs — edibles are especially dangerous

Dogs are much more sensitive to THC than humans. Marijuana toxicity in dogs has increased dramatically with the rise of high-potency edibles. Edibles are doubly dangerous because they may also contain chocolate, xylitol (artificial sweetener), or butter — all harmful to dogs.

Get emergency help

How urgent is this?

Emergency

Go to the ER now

  • Dog ate a marijuana edible (gummy, brownie, cookie, etc.)
  • Severe incoordination, inability to stand, or seizures
  • Loss of consciousness or extreme lethargy
  • Vomiting, dribbling urine, or low body temperature
Urgent

See a vet within 24 hours

  • Dog ate a small amount of dried marijuana flower
  • Dilated pupils, dazed behavior, or excessive drooling
  • Startling easily at sounds or touch
  • Uncertain what or how much was eaten
Monitor

Watch at home, call if it worsens

  • Dog briefly sniffed marijuana but did not eat any
  • Possible secondhand smoke exposure only (mild risk)
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What to Do Right Now

Be honest with your vet — they're there to help your dog, not to judge. Accurate information saves time and lives.

  • Call your vet or emergency clinic immediately
  • Tell the vet exactly what your dog ate — the form, amount, and when
  • If it was an edible, check the label for chocolate, xylitol, or other toxic ingredients
  • Do NOT induce vomiting unless specifically directed by the vet
  • Keep your dog in a quiet, safe space — they may be disoriented and frightened
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30-90 min
Symptom Onset

Symptoms from edibles can appear within 30-90 minutes of ingestion

12-24 hrs
Duration

THC effects in dogs typically last 12-24 hours with supportive care

448%
Case Increase

Marijuana toxicity cases in dogs have surged with edible legalization

Common Questions

Can marijuana kill a dog?
Death from marijuana toxicity alone is rare but possible, especially with high-potency edibles or in small dogs. The bigger risk is from additional toxic ingredients in edibles (chocolate, xylitol) or from complications like aspiration pneumonia if a dog vomits while sedated. With prompt veterinary treatment, most dogs recover fully.
Will my vet report me for marijuana exposure?
No. Veterinarians are bound by professional ethics to treat your pet, not to report you. They need accurate information to provide the best treatment. Being honest about what your dog ate — including THC products — is critical for your dog's care.
Is CBD oil safe for dogs?
CBD products specifically formulated for pets with minimal THC (less than 0.3%) are generally considered low-risk, though research is still limited. However, human CBD products may contain THC levels that are harmful to dogs. Always consult your vet before giving any cannabis-derived product to your dog.

Sources

  1. Marijuana Toxicosis in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual
  2. Marijuana Intoxication in Dogs and Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals
  3. A retrospective study of cannabis toxicosis in dogs — The Canadian Veterinary Journal

Did your dog already eat weed?

If your dog has already eaten weed and you're worried, our emergency guide has step-by-step instructions for what to do right now.

My Dog Ate Weed — What to Do →

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary medical advice. Reading this content does not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Every pet is different — always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet's health, diet, or care. If you'd like personalized guidance, you can talk to one of our vets. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local emergency animal hospital immediately.

Dog got into marijuana or edibles?

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Looking for cat info?

We also have a guide for cats.

Can Cats Eat Dog Ate Weed or Marijuana?