Strain Spotlight: Chemdawg

Chemdawg is more than just a cannabis strain—it’s a legend in its own right. For decades, this iconic strain has been a go-to for cannabis enthusiasts, thanks to its potent effects and unique flavor. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer curious about its reputation, this guide will take you through the ins and outs of Chemdawg, including its lineage, taste, and the strains that have evolved from this cannabis staple.

What is Chemdawg? 

Chemdawg, also spelled Chemdog or Chem Dog, is one of the most famous legacy strains in the cannabis world. Its origins are somewhat mysterious, but what’s certain is that Chemdawg has been a staple on dispensary shelves for years. The cannabis strain is known for its distinctive aroma, which is spicy and plant-like, with diesel and pine notes. With a reputation for packing a potent punch, Chemdawg is often recommended for experienced users because of its high THC levels, which can reach up to 25% (or more). This strain is a hybrid, often leaning slightly more toward being indica dominant, with a 55:45 indica-to-sativa ratio.¹

While much debate surrounds Chemdawg’s origin, popular lore holds that the strain traces back to a Grateful Dead concert in the early 1990s. At this concert, a cannabis enthusiast known as “Chemdog” purchased a unique strain from a fellow attendee. Initially, the strain was set to be called “Dog Bud” because, as the story goes, it made you want to “roll over like a dog.” However, thanks to its distinct chemical and grassy aroma, it was instead named Chemdawg. This strain has since become foundational in cannabis genetics, giving rise to iconic strains like Sour Diesel and solidifying its place in cannabis history.²

Chemdawg is renowned for its pungent, diesel-like aroma. The smell is often described as a combination of strong fuel, earthiness, and slight hints of pine. If you’ve ever tried Sour Diesel or OG Kush, you’ll recognize the signature Chemdawg scent, which shares lineage with these iconic strains.³

When it comes to taste, the Chemdawg strain has a unique flavor profile. On the inhale, you’ll experience earthy and woody notes. But thanks to the limonene terpene, you can expect some citrusy undertones. For cannabis connoisseurs, the complex flavors of Chemdawg make it a memorable and enjoyable strain.⁴

Chemdawg is not for the faint of heart. With THC levels typically ranging from 18% to 25%, this strain is known for its potent effects. However, the cannabis strain’s THC content can go as high as 34%.⁵ Considering the intensity of Chemdawg’s effects, it’s better suited for experienced cannabis enthusiasts who are accustomed to higher-THC strains. But always remember the golden rule: start low and go slow if you aren’t sure how a potent strain will affect you.

Chemdawg is the genetic backbone of several famous diesel strains. Here are a few of its most notable offspring:

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Sour Diesel, also known as Sour D or Sour Deez, is a 90% sativa-dominant hybrid with THC levels between 18% and 26%, making it a highly potent strain. Its origins aren’t entirely certain; some cannabis experts trace its lineage to Mass Super Skunk and 91 Chemdog, while others believe it descends from Mexican sativa and a Chemdog phenotype. However, its intense, fuel-like aroma—characteristic of Chemdawg—strongly suggests it’s part of the family. The Sour Diesel Strain has a similar chemical taste, but expect hints of citrus, sweet candy.⁶

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

OG Kush is one of the most iconic cannabis strains in the world, tracing its lineage to Chemdawg and one of the Hindu Kush strains. With THC levels typically around 20% to 26%, OG Kush is a highly potent choice for cannasseurs. Its skunky, sour, and woody citrus profile is complemented by earthy and herbal undertones. As an almost evenly balanced hybrid with a 55:45 sativa-to-indica ratio, OG Kush has become a foundational strain in cannabis genetics, even giving rise to popular descendants like Sherbet.⁷

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

A child strain of Chemdawg, Stardawg is a 70% indica-dominant hybrid. Its THC levels average between 16% and 25%, making it highly potent. The Stardawg strain is a cross between the highly popular Chemdawg and Tres Dog. This strain is known for its skunky, earthy scent, with hints of diesel and pine.⁸

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Also known as Garlic Cookies, GMO Cookies is a 90% indica-dominant hybrid that comes from crossing Chemdawg and Girl Scout Cookies (GSC). The GMO Cookies strain has a potent THC level of around 20% to 24% and is famous for its unique, savory flavor, reminiscent of garlic, coffee, and diesel.⁹

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

The Chem OG strain has celebrity parents—Chemdawg and OG Kush—and it certainly lives up to the hype. The sativa-dominant strain has THC levels averaging 20%.  The strain offers a pungent, earthy aroma with notes of citrus and pine. Its taste profile is similar, but expect a bit of sweetness.¹⁰ 

If you’ve got questions about Chemdawg, we’ve got you covered! Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about this legendary strain, from its origins to its potency. And remember, if you're still curious, your local Verilife budtender is always ready to help you learn more about this iconic strain.

Is Chemdawg an indica or sativa strain?
Chemdawg is generally considered a slightly indica-dominant hybrid strain.¹¹

What is Chemdawg mixed with?
The exact genetics of Chemdawg or Chem Dog strain are not widely known, but it is believed to have been a cross of two unknown strains. Its descendants, however, include popular strains like Sour Diesel and OG Kush.

How strong is Chemdawg?
Chemdawg is known for its high THC levels, which typically range between 18% and 25%, making it a potent strain for experienced users.

More About Chemdawg Strain

Whether you’re drawn to Chemdawg for its bold aroma, potency, or legendary status in the cannabis world, one thing is clear—this strain has earned its reputation. From its mysterious origins to its role in creating some of the most popular hybrids on the market today, Chemdawg continues to captivate cannabis enthusiasts. If you want to experience this iconic strain for yourself or want to explore its many descendants, ask your local Verilife budtender for recommendations.

Sources:

1. “Chemdog and 7 strains that come from it,” Weedmaps, January 28, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/news/2021/01/chemdog-and-7-strains-that-come-from-it/  

2. “Chem Dawg,” CannaConnection, https://www.cannaconnection.com/strains/chemdawg 

3. “Chemdawg,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/strains/chemdawg

4. “Chemdog,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/strains/chemdog  

5. “Chem Dawg Strain Review: A Potent Sativa-Leaning Hybrid,” Veriheal, September 23, 2023, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/chem-dawg-strain-review-a-potent-sativa-leaning-hybrid/   

6. “Sour Diesel Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/sour-diesel  

7. “OG Kush,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/og-kush  

8. “Stardawg Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/stardawg  

9. “GMO Cookies Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/gmo-cookies  

10. “Chem OG Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/sativa-dominant-hybrid/og-chem  

11. “Chemdawg Marijuana Strain,” Allbud, https://www.allbud.com/marijuana-strains/indica-dominant-hybrid/chemdawg