When and How to Induce Vomiting in a Dog Suspected of Ingesting Cannabis Edibles

Article reviewed for Accuracy by Dr. Asmat Khan.

Introduction

Accidental cannabis ingestion by dogs is an increasing concern, particularly in areas where cannabis is legal and widely available. Edibles, such as brownies, gummies, and other THC-infused treats, pose a significant risk to dogs due to their high concentration of THC and additional toxic ingredients like chocolate or xylitol. Pet owners who suspect their dog has ingested cannabis may wonder if inducing vomiting is a safe and effective first response. This essay explores when and how to make a dog vomit safely, and when it is advisable to seek veterinary assistance instead.

Important Note: Before attempting to make your dog vomit, always call your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison helpline. Some cases require immediate medical care rather than at-home treatment.

When to Induce Vomiting

Inducing vomiting in a dog may be beneficial in certain situations, but it is not always the appropriate course of action. Vomiting can help expel harmful substances from a dog’s stomach before they are fully absorbed into the bloodstream. However, several conditions must be met before attempting to induce vomiting at home.

1. Immediate Recognition of Ingestion: Vomiting is most effective within 30 minutes to two hours of ingestion. The longer cannabis remains in the stomach, the more likely it is to be absorbed, making vomiting less effective.
2. The Dog is Conscious and Alert:Do NOT induce vomiting if your dog is lethargic, disoriented, having tremors, or experiencing seizures. Inducing vomiting in a dog that is lethargic, disoriented, or having seizures can lead to aspiration pneumonia, where vomited material enters the lungs.
3. No Ingestion of Additional Toxic Ingredients: Many cannabis edibles contain chocolate, xylitol, or raisins, which are toxic to dogs. In such cases, immediate veterinary intervention is required rather than inducing vomiting at home.
4. No Underlying Health Conditions: Dogs with respiratory issues, brachycephalic breeds (such as Bulldogs or Pugs), or those with a history of esophageal or stomach disorders should not be induced to vomit at home.

How to Safely Induce Vomiting

If the conditions are appropriate, vomiting can be induced using a safe and veterinarian-approved method. The most commonly recommended method is the use of 3% hydrogen peroxide:

1. Calculate the Dosage: Administer 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of 3% hydrogen peroxide per 10 pounds of the dog’s body weight, with a maximum dose of 3 tablespoons (45 ml) for large dogs.
2. Administer the Peroxide: Use a syringe or turkey baster to squirt the hydrogen peroxide into the back of the dog’s mouth. If the dog refuses, mix it with a small amount of food.
3. Monitor the Dog: Vomiting should occur within 10 to 15 minutes. If it does not, a second dose may be given once, but never exceed two attempts.
4. Contact a Veterinarian: Even if vomiting is successful, veterinary consultation is essential to ensure all toxins have been expelled and to monitor for further symptoms.

When Not to Induce Vomiting

In some situations, inducing vomiting can do more harm than good. These include:

• If More Than Two Hours Have Passed: At this point, much of the cannabis has been absorbed, and vomiting is less effective.
• If the Dog is Showing Severe Symptoms: Severe lethargy, seizures, tremors, or loss of consciousness indicate that veterinary treatment, not at-home vomiting, is required.
• If the Dog Has Swallowed Sharp or Caustic Objects: Vomiting can cause additional damage to the esophagus and stomach lining.
• If the Dog Has a History of Respiratory or Digestive Issues: Certain breeds and dogs with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk for complications.

🚨 Emergency Tip

“If your dog is showing severe symptoms, do NOT attempt home treatment—take them to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately.”

Alternative Veterinary Treatments

If inducing vomiting is not an option or is unsuccessful, a veterinarian can provide other treatments, such as:

• Activated Charcoal: Helps absorb remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Intravenous Fluids: Aid in hydration and flushing THC out of the system more rapidly.
• Medications: Anti-nausea drugs, sedatives, or other supportive treatments can help manage symptoms.
• Hospitalization: In severe cases, hospitalization may be required for monitoring and advanced treatment.

Conclusion

While inducing vomiting can be a helpful emergency measure in cases of recent cannabis ingestion, it is not always appropriate. Understanding when and how to safely induce vomiting is critical for pet owners, but immediate veterinary consultation remains the best course of action. If in doubt, it is always advisable to seek professional veterinary advice rather than attempting at-home treatments that could potentially worsen the situation. Preventative measures, such as securing cannabis edibles out of reach, remain the best way to protect dogs from accidental  ingestion and toxicity.