Last Updated: 25/11/2025
Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs: Immediate Steps and Vet Advice
Chocolate is a favourite treat for humans but a major hazard for hounds. Discover why theobromine is toxic to dogs, how to spot the symptoms of poisoning, and exactly what to do if your furry friend raids the pantry.
Author: Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a block of chocolate is the perfect remedy for a bad day - for humans, at least. But while we might crave a square (or a whole row) of Dairy Milk, our four-legged friends simply cannot process it the same way. In fact, that sweet treat hiding in the cupboard can turn into a medical emergency for a curious canine.
Why is chocolate dangerous for dogs?
Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and cats because it contains chemicals known as methylxanthines. In particular, the methylxanthines chocolate contains are theobromine and caffeine.
Unlike humans, cats and dogs are unable to metabolise these compounds and therefore become sensitive to the effects. Both theobromine and caffeine product similar effects, but the effects of theobromine last longer.
Recognising the signs of chocolate poisoning
Signs of chocolate toxicity may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Hyperactivity
- Irregular heart rate and beat
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Death in severe cases
How much chocolate is too much?
There are many levels of chocolate dilution: white, milk, dark milk, dark, bitter black, etc. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the higher the cocoa content, which means the more theobromine and caffeine there is. So the darker the chocolate, the higher the toxicity.
White chocolate contains virtually zero theobromine. However it does pose a risk of pancreatitis due to its high fat content so dogs should not eat white chocolate either.
In order to calculate whether your dog has ingested a toxic level of methlxanthines, you will need to know:
- Your dog's weight
- The darkness or type of chocolate
- How many grams were likely consumed
If it is not clear how much chocolate was actually consumed, the largest possible amount should be determined based on how much chocolate is missing.
Immediate steps to take if your dog eats chocolate
- Seek immediate veterinary attention if your pet is showing any signs of toxicity. This is the most crucial first step.
- Use a chocolate toxicity calculator, or call your vet for a quick calculation. This will help you and your vet determine the level of risk and the urgency required.
- If ingestion was recent (within an hour or two), take your pet to the vet. They may be able to induce vomiting to remove the chocolate. Important: You should never try to induce vomiting at home, unless specifically directed to do so by your veterinarian.
- If ingestion occurred several hours prior and the dose is considered toxic, hospitalisation and supportive care will be needed.
- Be prepared for a hospital stay. It can take up to four days for theobromine to work its way out of your pet's system. This means signs of toxicity can last for a few days, and your pet may require ongoing hospitalisation for monitoring and treatment.
The hidden danger: pancreatitis
Aside from theobromine and caffeine toxicity, chocolate poses another significant risk to pets due to its high fat content. A sudden high fat meal (such as demolishing a block of chocolate) can create a deadly disease called pancreatitis.
The high level of fat stimulates the pancreas to work overtime as it attempts to secrete enough digestive enzymes to metabolise it. This leads to an inflamed and extremely painful pancreas. Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain are just the beginning of this illness - it may soon progress to infection, fever, and irreversible organ damage. Dogs who suffer from pancreatitis may never be able to eat fatty treats again without a flare up.
Read more about Pancreatitis in Dogs.
Dog safe treats
With all this in mind, this doesn't mean that your dog has to miss out on a treat of their own! Check out our vet tips on the best dog treats, and our recommendations below for something a little extra special for your fur baby!
FAQs
While sharing is usually caring, the chocolate stash must remain strictly "humans only." Prevention is always better than cure, so keep those sweets on the top shelf and secure the pantry doors.
However, accidents do happen. By staying calm, acting quickly, and seeking veterinary advice immediately, you give your dog the best chance of a full recovery. Stick to dog-safe treats for reward time, and keep the cocoa for your own cuppa.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Tue 25 Nov 2025
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Carla Paszkowski BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Carla graduated from the University of Queensland in 2013 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science and worked for a number of years in small animal clinics across South East Queensland. While Carla enjoys most facets of clinical veterinary work, she holds a special passion for feline medicine, pocket pets, and nutrition.
