Can dogs eat chocolate?
UNSAFE Category: Sweet · Source verified September 2026
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize far slower than humans. Darker chocolate is more dangerous: baking chocolate carries roughly seven times the theobromine of milk chocolate. Doses above 20 mg per kg of body weight can cause symptoms, and above 60 mg/kg seizures are possible. Use our chocolate toxicity calculator to estimate an ingested dose.
How much is dangerous?
- Toxicity tracks theobromine dose per kg of body weight: around 20 mg/kg brings vomiting and diarrhea; 40–50 mg/kg risks dangerous heart effects; seizures become possible at 60 mg/kg and above.
- The reported oral LD50 of theobromine in dogs is 100–200 mg/kg — several times the mild-sign threshold.
- Ounce for ounce, unsweetened baking chocolate carries about 6.7× the theobromine of milk chocolate, so the same weight of dark chocolate is far more dangerous.
For an exact number, run the amount through our chocolate toxicity calculator.
Dose data: Merck Veterinary Manual: Chocolate Toxicosis · ASPCA Animal Poison Control.
Symptoms to watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- restlessness
- rapid heart rate
- tremors
- seizures
Signs typically appear within 6–12 hours of ingestion.
If you suspect poisoning: call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (available 24/7). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Quick answers
Can dogs eat chocolate?
No. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolize far slower than humans. Darker chocolate is more dangerous: baking chocolate carries roughly seven times the theobromine of milk chocolate. Doses above 20 mg per kg of body weight can cause symptoms, and above 60 mg/kg seizures are possible. Use our chocolate toxicity calculator to estimate an ingested dose.
How much chocolate is toxic to a dog?
Toxicity tracks theobromine per kg of body weight: about 20 mg/kg causes vomiting and agitation, 40–50 mg/kg heart effects, and 60 mg/kg+ seizure risk, with a reported LD50 of 100–200 mg/kg. Estimate your dog’s exact dose with our chocolate toxicity calculator.
What are the symptoms if my dog eats chocolate?
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, rapid heart rate, tremors, seizures. Signs typically appear within 6–12 hours of ingestion. When in doubt, call your vet.
What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Do not wait for symptoms — early treatment is dramatically cheaper and safer.
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Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control. This page is informational and is not veterinary advice.