As marijuana becomes legalized in more states, accidental weed ingestion is becoming a more common issue for dog owners. If your pup gets into your stash, you’re probably wondering – how long does it take for weed to get out of a dog’s system? Understanding the effects and timeline can help you provide the right care and know what to expect.
How Weed Affects Dogs
Weed affects dogs differently than humans due to differences in brain receptors. THC is toxic to dogs, so even small amounts can cause concerning symptoms including:
- Lethargy and weakness
- Wobbliness or stumbling
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid heart rate
- Drooling or vomiting
- Urinary incontinence
- Disorientation or agitation
The effects typically appear within 30-60 minutes of ingestion. Seek veterinary advice immediately if your dog shows any concerning signs after possible weed exposure.
How Long Do Marijuana Effects Last?
For most dogs, marijuana effects last 2-3 hours on average. But in some cases, dogs may show symptoms for up to 48 hours depending on factors like:
- The amount ingested
- The potency of the weed
- Your dog’s size and sensitivity
Puppies, small breeds, and dogs with health conditions may experience more severe, drawn-out effects. Veterinary monitoring is recommended for at least 8-12 hours after known or suspected weed ingestion.
Clearing Weed from Your Dog’s System
Since marijuana is fat-soluble and stored in body tissues, traces can remain for 1-3 weeks after exposure. But any noticeable intoxication or impairment will resolve within 1-2 days in most cases.
Here’s how long it takes weed to fully clear from a dog’s system:
- Urine: 7-10 days after ingestion
- Blood: Up to 15 days, or longer for heavy/chronic exposure
- Hair: Up to 90 days if weed was ingested repeatedly
There is no specific treatment to speed up weed excretion. Vets may administer IV fluids or anti-nausea medication to relieve symptoms and keep your dog comfortable as the toxins clear.
Call your vet or pet poison helpline immediately if your dog gets into weed. With prompt supportive care, most dogs make a full recovery within a day or two. Keep marijuana out of paw’s reach to keep your curious canine safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weed is toxic to dogs?
Just 2-3 grams of marijuana can cause toxicity in dogs. Edibles and concentrates often contain very high THC levels and are especially dangerous.
Will secondhand weed smoke affect dogs?
Yes, dogs can experience marijuana toxicity from secondhand smoke. Keep your dog out of smoky rooms, and don’t blow smoke in their direction.
Can CBD products for dogs cause a false positive weed test?
Yes, full spectrum CBD oil with trace THC levels can cause a positive urinalysis test result for 1-3 days. Isolate CBD products are less likely to cause false positives.
Does activated charcoal help clear weed from a dog’s system?
No strong evidence shows activated charcoal speeds weed excretion in dogs. But it may help absorb any unmetabolized THC still in the digestive tract.
