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Dog Chocolate Toxicity Calculator
How theobromine poisoning works
Chocolate contains theobromine, and dogs clear it from the body roughly six times more slowly than humans do. Dose is measured in milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Under 20 mg/kg usually causes at most mild stomach upset. Between 20 and 40 mg/kg expect vomiting, diarrhea and agitation. From 40 to 60 mg/kg there is real risk of elevated heart rate and tremors, and above 60 mg/kg seizures become possible. Darker chocolate is far more dangerous: ounce for ounce, baking chocolate carries about 6.7 times the theobromine of milk chocolate.
If the result shows any band above "monitor", or if your dog is small, young, pregnant or already showing symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Signs typically show up within 6 to 12 hours.
This tool is an informational estimate based on Merck Veterinary Manual theobromine content data — not veterinary advice.
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Frequently asked questions
How much chocolate is toxic to a dog?
It depends on the type and the dog’s weight. Roughly 0.5 oz of baking chocolate per pound of body weight reaches the cardiac-risk zone; milk chocolate is about 6.7 times less concentrated. Use the calculator for your exact case.
What are the symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs?
Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, rapid breathing, muscle tremors, elevated heart rate and, at high doses, seizures. Signs usually begin within 6–12 hours of ingestion.
My dog ate chocolate — what should I do right now?
Run the calculator for a quick dose estimate, then call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435. Do not induce vomiting unless a professional instructs you to.
Is white chocolate dangerous for dogs?
Theobromine content is negligible, so poisoning risk is essentially zero — but white chocolate is high in fat and sugar and can still cause pancreatitis in large amounts.
Sources & methodology
- Theobromine content. Milk 58, semi-sweet 155, dark 228, unsweetened baking 390 mg/oz, consistent with Merck Veterinary Manual toxicology data and ASPCA guidance. · source
- Severity thresholds. Mild GI signs below 20 mg/kg; vomiting and agitation 20-40; cardiac signs 40-60; seizure risk above 60 mg/kg body weight. · source
- Limits. An educational risk estimate, not a diagnosis. Dose, chocolate type and individual sensitivity vary; when in doubt call your vet or ASPCA APCC at (888) 426-4435.
Last verified September 2026. Calculations on this page are implemented as unit-tested code. Estimates are educational, not veterinary advice. See our editorial policy.