If a dog ate cannabis, an edible, oil, concentrate, or an unknown product, contact a veterinarian or animal emergency hospital immediately. Do not wait for symptoms and do not decide from an internet article that the exposure is mild enough to manage at home.
The US FDA advises immediate veterinary consultation for suspected adverse effects from cannabis in pets. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that dogs can be especially sensitive and may need monitoring and supportive treatment.
Tell the veterinarian
Collect this information without delaying the call:
- the exact product and package;
- estimated amount eaten;
- THC, CBD, and serving information on the label;
- time of possible exposure;
- the dog’s weight, age, and health conditions;
- current symptoms; and
- every other ingredient, especially chocolate, xylitol, raisins, caffeine, medicines, or alcohol.
Bring the package to the clinic. Be direct about cannabis; accurate information helps the veterinarian choose care.
Warning signs
Possible signs include lethargy, poor coordination, vomiting, drooling, urinary leakage, unusual sensitivity to sound or movement, agitation, tremors, changes in body temperature, or abnormal heart rate. Severe signs can include collapse, inability to respond, breathing problems, or seizures.
Chocolate and xylitol can create separate life-threatening toxicity. An edible may also contain other ingredients that change the risk.
What not to do
- Do not induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or animal poison specialist tells you to.
- Do not give activated charcoal, salt, milk, oil, human medicines, CBD, or home remedies.
- Do not force food or water into a drowsy or poorly coordinated dog.
- Do not leave the dog alone near stairs, water, or furniture.
- Do not assume that “sleeping it off” is safe without veterinary advice.
Treatment decisions depend on the animal’s condition, the product, timing, and co-ingredients. Advice intended for humans does not apply to pets.
Prevention
Keep cannabis in its original child-resistant package inside a locked cabinet. Keep it separate from ordinary snacks and out of bags, bins, tables, and bedside drawers that pets can reach. Tell visitors where products must be stored.
Stash BKK does not provide veterinary advice. This page exists to direct an exposure to the appropriate professional quickly.
FAQ
My dog seems normal. Should I still call?
Yes. Symptoms may be delayed, product strength may be uncertain, and early advice can affect what the veterinarian recommends.
Should I make my dog vomit?
Not unless a veterinarian specifically instructs you. Vomiting can cause aspiration or other harm, especially once coordination or alertness is affected.
Can I give CBD to counter THC?
No. CBD is not a home antidote, commercial products vary, and the FDA has not approved cannabis products for animal use.
Is cannabis poisoning always fatal in dogs?
Death is rare, but illness can be serious and co-ingredients may be dangerous. Prompt veterinary assessment is the safe response.
