As cannabis becomes more common in households across the country, so does the risk of accidental exposure to pets. If you’re a dog owner who also keeps weed or THC products at home, you might be wondering: Is THC bad for dogs? The short answer is yes — and here’s what you need to know to keep your furry friend safe.
THC and Dogs: Why It Doesn’t Mix
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that causes the “high” in humans. While it may feel relaxing to you, THC can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.
Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains than humans do. That means they’re much more sensitive to THC, and it doesn’t take much to cause serious problems. Whether it’s from flower, edibles, vapes, or even secondhand smoke — exposure can lead to THC poisoning in dogs.
Common Signs of Weed Toxicity in Dogs
Wondering how to tell if your dog got into your stash? Here are the most common symptoms of cannabis poisoning in dogs:
- Lethargy or extreme sleepiness
- Loss of balance (wobbly walking)
- Dilated pupils or glassy eyes
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Whining or vocalizing
- Tremors or shaking
- Urinary incontinence
- Low heart rate or low body temperature
- In severe cases: seizures or coma
If your dog is showing any of these signs and you suspect THC exposure, don’t wait. Call your vet immediately.
How Do Dogs Get THC Poisoning?
It’s more common than you think. Dogs can be exposed to THC in many ways:
- Eating a weed edible (especially chocolate or gummies)
- Ingesting flower, dabs, or shake
- Getting into vape cartridges or tinctures
- Breathing in secondhand smoke in an unventilated room
- Licking up spilled infused oils or butter
Many edibles also contain chocolate, xylitol, or other ingredients that are already harmful to dogs — which makes the situation worse.
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How Much THC Is Dangerous to Dogs?
There’s no exact “safe” dose of THC for dogs. Every dog reacts differently based on size, age, breed, and general health. Even a tiny amount can be dangerous, especially for small breeds.
Veterinarians report that most THC-related pet emergencies happen when edibles are left unattended. A 10-pound dog eating a single THC gummy can land in the emergency room quickly.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Weed
If you think your dog got into weed or any cannabis product:
- Stay calm, but act fast.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal hospital.
- If needed, contact the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Be honest about what your dog may have eaten or inhaled — it helps your vet treat them faster.
Never try to “wait it out” at home. Some THC symptoms take hours to show up, but the damage could already be happening inside.
Can Dogs Die from THC?
Yes, it’s rare but possible. Most dogs recover with the right treatment, but if the dose is high enough or if treatment is delayed, THC toxicity can become life-threatening. Dogs with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable.
CBD vs. THC: What About Pet CBD Products?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp. It’s often used in pet products — but it must contain 0.3% THC or less to be legally considered hemp-derived and safe. Always choose pet-specific CBD products from reputable brands and check the lab results.
Never give your dog a CBD product meant for humans, especially if you’re unsure of the THC content.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Cannabis
If you use cannabis at home, here are some simple steps to keep your dog safe:
- Store products securely — use locked cabinets or containers.
- Avoid smoking around pets, especially in enclosed spaces.
- Don’t leave edibles or vapes unattended on tables or counters.
- Clean up spills immediately, especially oils or crumbs.
- Label everything clearly, especially if others in the home also use THC.
Being a responsible cannabis user means being a responsible pet owner too.
Final Thoughts
So, is THC bad for dogs? Absolutely. Even a little can lead to serious health problems. As cannabis becomes more accepted, it’s more important than ever to protect our pets from accidental exposure. Keep your weed where your dog can’t reach it, watch for signs of toxicity, and never hesitate to call your vet if you think your pup got into something they shouldn’t have.
Also Read: Tinctures Vs Edibles
