Can dogs eat chocolate?
No. Chocolate is toxic to dogs, even in quite small amounts. It contains theobromine and caffeine, and the darker the chocolate, the greater the risk. Baking chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous; white chocolate has the least of these substances.
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Why
Chocolate contains methylxanthines, mainly theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate, cooking chocolate and cocoa powder contain more of them than milk chocolate. Dogs are affected most often because they eat whatever they find and can easily reach chocolate. Sweets and baked goods may also contain other harmful ingredients.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Panting, strong thirst and peeing more
- Restlessness and hyperactivity
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Trembling or seizures
- Signs usually appear within 6–12 hours
What to do
Contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away, even if your dog ate only a little. Note what kind of chocolate it was and how much was eaten. Don't wait for signs, because they can take hours to appear.
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Is white chocolate safe for dogs?
It is not a safe treat. White chocolate has the lowest content of the harmful substances, but the risk still depends on the type and amount eaten, so call your vet if your dog ate some.
Which chocolate is the most dangerous?
Baking chocolate and cocoa powder, followed by dark chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the greater the risk.
When do signs of chocolate poisoning appear?
Usually within 6–12 hours after eating it, which is why you should call the vet straight away instead of waiting.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Chocolate Are Toxic To Pets — Pet Poison Helpline
- Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual
- Poisonous foods for dogs — Blue Cross
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.