Debunking the Myth: Does a Dog Stay High Forever After Inhaling Cannabis Vapor?

It's a common misconception that if a dog accidentally inhales cannabis vapor or smoke, it will remain high forever. This notion is completely unfounded, both from a biological standpoint and from observations made by dog owners. Let's explore why this myth is just that—a myth.

Understanding a Dog's Response to Cannabis

Just like other mammals, dogs have a similar response to cannabis vapor and smoke. When a dog inhales cannabis, the effects are typically short-lived. After a brief period of disorientation or staggered behavior, the dog will find its way to sleep. This is due to the fact that a dog's physiology is designed to process and eliminate cannabis quickly.

In my personal experience, I had a Scottie who would lay on the bed with me while I toked at night. She would inhale some of the vapor, but she was always comfortable and loved her cannabutter treats. She would sometimes sneak my cookies and get stoned, which often resulted in her falling asleep immediately.

Case Studies and Observations

There are rare instances where a dog might accidentally ingest a small amount of cannabis, leading to temporary effects. However, these effects are generally not long-lasting. One such anecdotal story involved a friend of a friend. The dog got high, but it didn't stay that way indefinitely. After a period of time, the dog became low, indicating that the effects were temporary.

The story goes that a friend of a friend had a small bag of weed in his breast pocket while he was stoned, and he didn't notice that it was unsealed. The dog snorted some vapor while he was pouring food. The weed was no longer in the pocket afterwards, meaning the dog had consumed the majority of it. While the dog got the munchies and ate various non-food items, it ultimately became ill and had to be taken to the vet, before recovering.

Understanding the Biological Response

From a biological perspective, there is no mechanism that allows a dog to remain permanently high from inhaling cannabis vapor. The effects of cannabis are similar to those experienced by humans. Once the cannabinoids are introduced into the body, the body processes and eliminates them over time. This is why a dog will not stay high forever.

There is a common belief that inhaling cannabis vapor slows down a dog's metabolism, leading to a state of perpetual bliss. However, this is theorized rather than proven. The process of inhaling cannabis vapor does not alter time in the way that the myth suggests. In fact, once the effects have worn off, the dog returns to its normal state.

It's important to note that while the effects of inhaling cannabis vapor are temporary, excessive exposure to cannabis can still pose health risks to dogs, including respiratory issues and intoxication. If a dog is exposed to significant amounts of cannabis, it's crucial to monitor its behavior and seek veterinary assistance if necessary.

In conclusion, the idea of a dog staying high forever after inhaling cannabis vapor is a myth. While dogs can experience temporary effects, these effects are not permanent and will naturally wear off. As always, it's important to prioritize the health and well-being of your furry friends.

Explore Further

For more in-depth information and resources on this topic, you may want to look into reputable sources and studies on the effects of cannabis on dogs. While some websites and resources may be controversial, there are reliable sources that provide valuable insights.