Why are dogs so affected by THC?
Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brain, making them much more sensitive to THC than humans. Poisoning is rarely fatal on its own, but edibles add serious risks: chocolate toxicity, xylitol, raisins, or packaging. Symptoms can last 24–72 hours.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Symptoms of marijuana poisoning
- Wobbliness, appearing "drunk", dilated pupils
- Lethargy or, less often, agitation and aggression
- Vomiting, drooling, low heart rate or low temperature
- Urinary incontinence
- Severe: tremors, seizures (rare, usually with edibles)
What to do right now
- Tell your vet honestly what was eaten — including whether it was an edible, and its THC content if known.
- Watch for edible co-toxins (chocolate, xylitol, raisins) — check those calculators too.
- Keep the pet warm and calm; most cases recover with supportive care in 24–72 h.
- Call if symptoms are severe, worsening, or the pet has a medical condition.
Sources & further reading
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — pet poison database & dosage references
- Pet Poison Helpline — toxicology triage guidelines
- Merck Veterinary Manual — toxicology monographs
- Vets Now (UK) — emergency toxicosis guidance
Other poisonings with overlapping signs
- Caffeine Toxicity Calculator — shares signs: vomiting, severe
- Cane Toad & Toad Poisoning — shares signs: vomiting, wobbliness
- Foxglove (Digitalis) — shares signs: vomiting, wobbliness
Owners also ask
- My dog drank coffee or ate grounds — is caffeine toxic to dogs?
- My dog just licked a cane toad that was on the grill. Is it safe if the toad was cooked?
Frequently asked questions
Is Marijuana / THC Poisoning in Dogs poisonous to a dog or cat?
Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brain, making them much more sensitive to THC than humans. Poisoning is rarely fatal on its own, but edibles add serious risks: chocolate toxicity, xylitol, raisins, or packaging. Symptoms can last 24–72 hours.
What are the symptoms of marijuana poisoning?
Wobbliness, appearing "drunk", dilated pupils; Lethargy or, less often, agitation and aggression; Vomiting, drooling, low heart rate or low temperature; Urinary incontinence
What should I do if my pet ate Marijuana / THC Poisoning in Dogs?
Tell your vet honestly what was eaten — including whether it was an edible, and its THC content if known. Watch for edible co-toxins (chocolate, xylitol, raisins) — check those calculators too. Keep the pet warm and calm; most cases recover with supportive care in 24–72 h.
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