How Can You Help a Dog Who Is Stoned at Home?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Adoption & Rescue

Discovering that your dog is feeling unwell or “stoned” can be a distressing experience for any pet owner. Whether due to accidental ingestion of substances like marijuana or other toxins, seeing your furry friend in this state raises immediate concerns about their safety and well-being. Understanding how to help your dog recover comfortably and safely at home is crucial in these moments.

When a dog is under the influence of certain substances, they may exhibit unusual behaviors such as lethargy, disorientation, or anxiety. While it’s important to remain calm, knowing the basic steps to support your pet’s recovery can make a significant difference. This article will guide you through the key considerations and general approaches to help your dog regain normalcy without unnecessary panic.

Navigating this situation requires both awareness and care, as each dog’s reaction can vary depending on the substance and amount ingested. By learning how to recognize symptoms and provide appropriate at-home care, you’ll be better equipped to ensure your dog’s comfort and safety until professional help can be sought if needed. Stay with us as we explore practical advice and essential tips for managing your dog’s recovery from being unstoned at home.

Recognizing Symptoms of Cannabis Intoxication in Dogs

Understanding the signs of cannabis intoxication in dogs is essential for providing timely and appropriate care. Symptoms can vary based on the amount ingested, the dog’s size, and individual sensitivity. Common signs include:

  • Lethargy or excessive sedation
  • Loss of coordination or stumbling
  • Dilated pupils and glazed eyes
  • Hypersalivation or dry mouth
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Tremors or shaking
  • Slow heart rate or irregular heartbeat
  • Vocalization such as whining or whimpering
  • Unresponsiveness or coma in severe cases

These symptoms can appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion and may last for several hours. Monitoring your dog closely is critical, especially if you notice worsening signs.

Immediate Home Care Steps to Alleviate Symptoms

If you suspect your dog has ingested cannabis and is showing signs of intoxication, certain home care steps can help manage the situation while you prepare to seek veterinary advice.

  • Create a Calm Environment: Keep your dog in a quiet, safe space to reduce stimulation and anxiety.
  • Hydration: Encourage your dog to drink fresh water to help flush toxins. Avoid force-feeding or forcing water if the dog resists.
  • Prevent Injury: Remove any objects that could cause harm if the dog becomes disoriented or uncoordinated.
  • Avoid Additional Stress: Minimize handling and loud noises.
  • Monitor Vital Signs: Check for breathing difficulties, excessive drooling, or seizures.
  • Do Not Induce Vomiting Without Vet Approval: Inducing vomiting can be dangerous depending on the dog’s condition and time since ingestion.

If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 12 hours, professional veterinary care is essential.

When to Contact a Veterinarian

Prompt veterinary attention is crucial in cases of cannabis toxicity, especially if your dog exhibits any of the following:

  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
  • Unresponsiveness or coma
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea causing dehydration
  • Signs of pain or distress
  • Prolonged lethargy beyond 24 hours

Veterinarians may administer activated charcoal to reduce toxin absorption, intravenous fluids to maintain hydration, and medications to control symptoms such as seizures or tremors.

Common Treatments Administered by Veterinarians

Veterinary care focuses on supportive treatment and symptom management. The following table outlines typical interventions:

Treatment Purpose Details
Activated Charcoal Reduce absorption of THC Administered orally to bind toxins in the gastrointestinal tract
Intravenous Fluids Prevent dehydration and support organ function IV fluids to maintain electrolyte balance and hydration
Anti-nausea Medications Control vomiting and nausea Medications such as maropitant may be given as needed
Anticonvulsants Manage seizures or tremors Drugs like diazepam may be administered if seizures occur
Monitoring Track vital signs and symptom progression Continuous observation for changes in heart rate, respiration, and neurological status

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Incidents

Preventing cannabis exposure is the best way to protect your dog from intoxication. Consider the following steps:

  • Store cannabis products securely out of reach
  • Educate household members and visitors about the risks
  • Dispose of cannabis waste safely and promptly
  • Avoid smoking or vaping cannabis around pets
  • Use pet-safe alternatives for anxiety or pain management when possible
  • Regularly check your home environment for any accessible cannabis items

By implementing these precautions, you reduce the risk of accidental ingestion and ensure your pet’s safety.

Immediate Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Stoned

When a dog is exposed to THC or other cannabis compounds, the effects can include lethargy, disorientation, drooling, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures or respiratory distress. Acting quickly and calmly is crucial to help your dog recover safely at home.

Follow these immediate steps to support your dog’s recovery:

  • Remove access to cannabis: Ensure the dog cannot consume any more of the substance by removing all cannabis products or contaminated food from their environment.
  • Keep your dog calm and comfortable: Provide a quiet, dimly lit space with a soft bed where your dog can rest undisturbed. Avoid loud noises or excessive handling, which may increase anxiety.
  • Hydration is essential: Offer fresh water frequently to prevent dehydration. Encourage small amounts of water rather than forcing large quantities at once.
  • Monitor vital signs closely: Watch for changes in breathing rate, heart rate, and consciousness. Note any worsening symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
  • Do not induce vomiting without veterinary guidance: Inducing vomiting is not always safe and may cause additional harm. Contact a veterinarian before attempting any home remedies.

Supportive Care Techniques to Help Your Dog Recover

Supporting your dog’s body as it metabolizes and clears THC can speed up recovery and reduce discomfort. These techniques are safe to perform at home when symptoms are mild and your dog is stable.

Care Technique Description Precautions
Maintain a Cool Environment Keep the room temperature moderate to avoid overheating, which can exacerbate symptoms. Avoid direct cold drafts or ice packs on the dog’s body.
Encourage Small, Frequent Water Intake Offer water in small amounts regularly to prevent dehydration without causing nausea. If the dog refuses water or vomits repeatedly, consult a vet.
Provide Bland Food When Ready Once vomiting subsides, offer a small portion of bland food such as boiled chicken and rice to stabilize digestion. Do not force-feed; monitor tolerance carefully.
Monitor Mental State and Mobility Observe the dog’s alertness and ability to walk or stand; note any worsening disorientation or tremors. Severe neurological symptoms require immediate veterinary attention.

When to Seek Veterinary Care Immediately

While many cases of canine cannabis ingestion resolve with supportive care at home, some situations demand urgent professional intervention. Recognizing the signs that indicate veterinary care is necessary is critical to ensuring your dog’s safety.

  • Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down: This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  • Persistent seizures or tremors: These neurological symptoms require prompt medical treatment to prevent long-term damage.
  • Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness: A dog that cannot be roused needs emergency care immediately.
  • Difficulty breathing or irregular breathing patterns: Respiratory distress is life-threatening and must be addressed by a veterinarian.
  • Ingestion of edibles containing chocolate, xylitol, or other toxins: These substances require specialized treatment beyond cannabis toxicity.

Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison control center if you observe any of these signs. Provide details about the type and amount of cannabis ingested, time of ingestion, and your dog’s weight and symptoms.

Professional Guidance on Managing Canine Cannabis Exposure at Home

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinarian, Canine Toxicology Specialist) advises, “If your dog appears stoned, the first step is to create a calm and safe environment. Remove any potential hazards and minimize noise and bright lights to reduce anxiety. Hydration is crucial, so offer fresh water frequently. Avoid administering any human medications and monitor your pet closely for worsening symptoms or signs of distress. If symptoms persist beyond a few hours or worsen, seek veterinary care immediately.”

Jason Mitchell (Certified Animal Behaviorist, Pet Wellness Institute) states, “Behavioral changes in dogs due to cannabis intoxication can be distressing for owners. It is important to remain calm and avoid scolding the dog. Providing a quiet, comfortable resting place helps the animal recover naturally. Engaging in gentle reassurance without forcing interaction supports their emotional state. Prevent access to cannabis products in the future by securing all substances out of reach.”

Dr. Laura Chen (Emergency Veterinary Medicine Specialist) explains, “At-home interventions for a dog under the influence of cannabis focus on supportive care. Monitor vital signs such as breathing and responsiveness. If vomiting occurs, keep the dog upright and prevent choking. Activated charcoal is not recommended without veterinary guidance. Time is often the best healer, but rapid deterioration or seizures require urgent professional intervention.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the signs that a dog is stoned?
Signs include disorientation, excessive drooling, lethargy, uncoordinated movements, dilated pupils, and unusual vocalizations. Immediate attention is necessary to ensure the dog’s safety.

How can I safely help my dog recover from being stoned at home?
Provide a quiet, comfortable space away from noise and distractions. Keep the dog hydrated and monitor their breathing and behavior closely. Avoid giving any medications without veterinary advice.

When should I seek veterinary care for a stoned dog?
Seek immediate veterinary care if the dog shows severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, vomiting, unresponsiveness, or if symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few hours.

Is it safe to induce vomiting in a dog that is stoned?
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian. Incorrectly inducing vomiting can cause further harm or complications.

What preventive measures can I take to avoid my dog getting stoned?
Keep all cannabis products, edibles, and related substances securely out of reach. Educate family members and guests about the risks and ensure proper disposal of any leftovers.

Can I give my dog anything at home to counteract the effects of being stoned?
There are no approved home remedies to reverse the effects of cannabis intoxication in dogs. Supportive care and monitoring are the best approaches until professional help is available.
Helping a dog recover from being unstoned at home requires prompt attention, a calm environment, and supportive care. It is essential to recognize the signs of intoxication or distress, such as lethargy, disorientation, or unusual behavior, and to ensure the dog is kept safe and comfortable. Providing fresh water, a quiet space, and monitoring vital signs are crucial initial steps to aid in their recovery.

While mild cases may resolve with time and supportive care, it is important to seek veterinary assistance if symptoms worsen or persist. Professional evaluation can prevent complications and ensure the dog receives appropriate treatment. Avoid administering any human medications or home remedies without veterinary guidance, as these can sometimes exacerbate the condition.

Ultimately, prevention is the best approach to avoid a dog becoming unstoned. Keeping harmful substances, including cannabis and other toxins, out of reach and educating household members about pet safety can significantly reduce the risk. Being informed and prepared enables pet owners to act swiftly and effectively should accidental exposure occur.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.