Consumers today face a wide spectrum of pre-roll options, each crafted to cater to different potencies, price points, and usage occasions. Three of the most common categories—dogwalkers, standard pre-rolls, and infused joints—offer distinctly different smoking experiences, even though they all fall under the umbrella of ready-to-use cannabis products. Understanding these differences helps shoppers choose the product that matches their tolerance, lifestyle, and budget.

Dogwalkers: Small, Potent, and Purpose-Built

Dogwalkers are short, compact pre-rolls typically ranging from 0.25 to 0.5 grams each. Their name references the idea that they can be consumed during a quick walk—strong enough to provide a satisfying effect but small enough to finish without wasting flower. Brands such as Dogwalkers (owned by Green Thumb Industries) popularized the format, focusing on premium small-format rolls packaged in multi-packs.

What sets dogwalkers apart is their intention: they’re ideal for solo smokers, microdosers, or consumers who want a manageable session without a long burn time. Many dispensaries also highlight them as a low-commitment way to try new strains. Their affordability, portability, and controlled dosage contribute to their continued popularity in mature markets like Nevada, Colorado, and California.

Standard Pre-Rolls: The Classic Go-To

Standard pre-rolls are the most widely purchased joint category in dispensaries nationwide. They typically weigh between 0.75 and 1 gram, though half-gram singles are also common. Made from ground cannabis flower—sometimes whole flower, sometimes a mix of flower and trim—their quality varies by brand and price point.

These pre-rolls appeal to both beginners and seasoned consumers who want a straightforward experience with no added concentrates. They burn slower than dogwalkers and are easier to share, making them the most versatile choice for social settings. Many states report pre-rolls as one of the fastest-growing categories, driven by convenience and consistent dosing. In 2023–2024, BDSA and Headset data specifically highlighted pre-rolls as a top performer, outperforming many vape and edible segments in growth.

Infused Joints: The Heavy-Hitter Category

Infused joints combine ground flower with potent cannabis concentrates such as kief, hash, resin, rosin, or distillate. This extra layer of potency can double or even triple THC levels compared to standard pre-rolls, placing infused rolls in the “high-strength” tier of ready-to-smoke products.

Popular among experienced consumers, infused joints offer enhanced flavor, stronger effects, and longer burn times. They’re often marketed with premium branding, specialty coatings, and strain-specific concentrates. Concentrate-based infusions began rising sharply in 2022 and continue to dominate sales in markets like Nevada and California, where many brands release infused variants of their top-selling pre-roll lines.

Choosing the Right Option

Dogwalkers suit short sessions and discreet use, standard pre-rolls fit everyday smoking, and infused joints serve those seeking intensity and long-lasting effects. Each category has its place, and understanding these differences allows consumers to make informed, personalized decisions when stepping up to any dispensary’s pre-roll counter.