Can dogs get passively high? Risks & protection

A cosy evening, a few puffs of cannabis - and your dog is lying relaxed next to you. But suddenly he seems strange: staggering gait, glassy eyes, unusual behaviour. Could he really be high?

In fact, dogs are extremely sensitive to THC. Even small amounts can have severe effects - from disorientation to serious health problems. But how can you recognise it and what can you do if it happens? Here you can find out everything you need to know to protect your four-legged friend.

Why dogs are more sensitive to THC than humans

You may have asked yourself: " Can dogs get passively high? " The clear answer: Yes and this can have serious consequences. Dogs are much more sensitive to THC than humans - even small amounts can be dangerous for them.

The reason lies in the metabolism. While our body breaks down THC relatively quickly, it remains in the system longer in dogs. Their endocannabinoid system works differently and their liver cannot process the substances as well. This means that what is a relaxing effects for a human can be pure stress or even life-threatening for a dog.

It becomes particularly dangerous when a dog not only inhales cannabis smoke, but also eats food containing THC. This is because THC is absorbed even more intensively via the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, caution is better than forbearance - dogs should never come into contact with cannabis.

Can dogs get passively high? How cannabis smoke affects them

When a dog inhales cannabis smoke, the THC enters the bloodstream directly via the lungs. The effects can vary in severity depending on the amount and duration of exposure. Typical effects are:

• Changed behaviour : The dog suddenly appears disorientated, anxious or extremely calm.
• Problems with coordination: Staggering, unsteady gait or even falling over are common signs.
• Dilated pupils and glassy eyes: The eyes may be reddened, similar to a high person.
• Increased or slowed heartbeat: Both can occur and put a strain on the dog's circulation.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some dogs react with profuse salivation or vomiting.
• Uncontrolled trembling or muscle twitching: In severe cases, it can even lead to seizures.

How long the symptoms last depends on the amount ingested. While mild cases subside after a few hours, severe cases can last for over 24 hours. Small dogs and older animals are particularly susceptible - even a small dose of THC can be life-threatening.

Warning signals: How to recognise if your dog is high

If a dog has inhaled cannabis smoke, the first signs usually appear within an hour. The symptoms can range from mild drowsiness to serious health problems. Particularly noticeable is often a changed behaviour The dog suddenly appears disorientated, stumbles or no longer reacts as usual. Some animals become extremely calm and withdraw, while others appear nervous or panicky.

In addition to the behaviour, there is also Physical signs which indicate a THC-effects. Many dogs develop dilated pupils, glassy eyes or begin to salivate unusually heavily. Some stagger when walking or completely lose coordination - they stagger, suddenly sit down or even fall over. In more severe cases, muscle twitching, tremors or seizures may occur.

The circulation can also be affected. Some dogs have a accelerated or irregular heartbeat which leads to inner restlessness. Others become noticeably sleepy and barely react to their surroundings. Nausea and vomiting also occur frequently, especially if the animal has not only inhaled THC but also ingested it via food residues.

As the intensity of the symptoms strongly depends on the amount ingested, it is important to observe the dog closely. Mild symptoms often subside after a few hours, while more severe poisoning can last for more than 24 hours. Small or older dogs in particular are at a higher risk of serious health consequences - therefore: If you are unsure, contact the vet immediately!

First aid: What you should do if your dog has become passively high

If your dog shows signs of THC-Vergiftung shows symptoms, quick action is required. Even if the symptoms appear mild, you should keep a close eye on him and provide him with a calm environment. The following measures can help:

• Fresh air: Take your dog to a well-ventilated place so that he does not inhale any more smoke.
• Keep calm: Stress can make symptoms worse. Talk to him calmly and avoid hectic movements.
• Offer water: THC can make the mouth dry. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water.
• Pay attention to body temperature: Some dogs freeze or overheat under the influence of THC. A blanket or a cool surface can help.
• Do not force anything : If your dog is disorientated, avoid unnecessary stimuli such as loud noises or intense light.

In severe cases, you should not wait and see, but contact a vet immediately. Alarm signs are persistent vomiting, heavy salivation, seizures or unconsciousness. If your dog has eaten food containing THC, medical help is also necessary - especially if it contains chocolate or other toxic ingredients.

Better prevention: How to protect your dog from cannabis smoke

The best measure is to prevent your dog from coming into contact with THC in the first place. Even small amounts can be unpleasant or even dangerous for him. You should therefore take a few precautions:

• Do not smoke near your dog: Even if you are outside, the smoke can get into his fur or airways.
• Keep cannabis and THC products safe: Dogs are curious and will quickly grab something that smells interesting. Store everything out of reach.
• Dispose of leftovers immediately: THC-containing foods such as brownies or biscuits are particularly dangerous, as they often contain additional harmful ingredients such as chocolate or xylitol.
• Inform guests: If friends or flatmates use cannabis, they should know that dogs are not allowed to come into contact with it.
• React quickly in an emergency: If your dog shows signs of poisoning despite all precautions, do not hesitate - contact a vet immediately.

With a few simple precautions, you can protect your four-legged friend and ensure that he doesn't get high unintentionally.

A moment of carelessness can have dangerous consequences

Even though it may not appear to be a cause for concern at first glance, cannabis smoke can pose serious health risks for dogs. Their bodies react much more sensitively to THC than humans, as they break down the substance more slowly and their nervous system responds much more strongly to it. Even a small amount can lead to severe symptoms such as staggering, trembling or vomiting. In more severe cases, it can even lead to a racing heart, seizures or unconsciousness - a life-threatening situation that requires immediate veterinary assistance.

Anyone who uses cannabis themselves or lives in an environment where it is used should be aware of the potential dangers for their dog. The simplest protection is to prevent the animal from coming into contact with THC in the first place. This means not only not smoking around them, but also making sure that cannabis products are stored safely. Edible THC products are particularly dangerous, as they often contain additional toxic ingredients such as chocolate or xylitol.

If it is suspected that a dog has become passively high, quick action is required. Even if the symptoms appear mild, the animal should be observed closely. Changes in behaviour, balance problems or heavy panting can be indications that THC is already showing effects. In any case, it is better to contact the vet once too often than to underestimate a possible poisoning.

The health of a dog always depends on the responsibility of its owner. A moment of carelessness can be enough to expose him to unnecessary risks. It is therefore important to realise that something that may seem harmless to humans can have serious consequences for a dog. With the right caution, however, the risk can be easily avoided - and your faithful four-legged friend will stay healthy and lively.