Chocolate
Can dogs eat dark chocolate?
If your dog ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
Dark and baking chocolate pack far more theobromine per bite than milk chocolate, so any ingestion by a dog should be treated as an emergency.
Toxic principle: theobromine (highly concentrated) and caffeine
Watch for
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- hyperactivity
- elevated heart rate
- muscle tremors
- seizures
- collapse
Sources
- ASPCA: What to Do If Your Pet Gets Into Chocolate
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Chocolate Toxicosis in Animals
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat dark chocolate?
Dark and baking chocolate pack far more theobromine per bite than milk chocolate, so any ingestion by a dog should be treated as an emergency.
What should I do if my dog ate dark chocolate?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with dark chocolate and dogs?
vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, collapse. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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