Not Safe

Not SafeVet ReviewedReviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSsweet

Not Safe for Dogs

Key warning: all types including white chocolate

Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? Exact Toxic Amount by Weight Chart

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs. It contains theobromine and caffeine which dogs cannot metabolize. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are most dangerous.

Search another food

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, restlessness, excessive urination, abnormal heart rhythm, muscle tremors, seizures, death.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately. Note type and amount consumed.

What to Avoid

all types including white chocolate

Preparation & Serving

Keep all chocolate completely out of reach including cocoa powder and chocolate baked goods.

Safer Alternatives

Offer carob-based dog treats as a safe chocolate-flavored alternative

Did you know?

The darker the chocolate the more dangerous it is — baking chocolate contains 10 times more theobromine than milk chocolate.

Portions & nutrition

Toxic dose (per kg body weight): 20mg theobromine per kg — dark chocolate has 150mg per 30g
Calories (per 100g): 546
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: AKC

What You Need to Know

Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain the highest concentrations of theobromine and are most dangerous. Milk chocolate contains less but is still toxic. White chocolate contains negligible theobromine but is still not recommended due to high fat and sugar content. Call your vet immediately if any dark, milk, or baking chocolate is consumed.

Chocolate Variations

Dark ChocolateNot Safe Dog Ate Chocolate What to DoNot Safe Small Dogs Chocolate LabradorNot Safe Cocoa PowderNot Safe Small Dogs ChocolateNot Safe Milk ChocolateNot Safe Golden Retriever ChocolateNot Safe Baking ChocolateNot Safe Chocolate Amount Toxic to DogsNot Safe Labrador ChocolateNot Safe White ChocolateCaution

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety assessment to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety assessment

If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

Related guides & hubs

Browse the food databaseSearch foods and browse categories Browse all dog health guidesNutrition, safety, insurance, and more Emergency guide: what to do nextStep-by-step actions for the next 60 minutes Dangerous foods dogs cannot eatA complete toxic foods list Best online vet servicesTelehealth options when you need answers fast

Frequently asked questions

Is Chocolate safe for dogs?: No, Chocolate is not safe for dogs. Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs. It contains theobromine and caffeine which dogs cannot metabolize. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are most dangerous.
What happens if a dog eats Chocolate?: If a dog eats Chocolate, they may experience: Vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, restlessness, excessive urination, abnormal heart rhythm, muscle tremors, seizures, death.
How much Chocolate can a dog eat?: Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain the highest concentrations of theobromine and are most dangerous. Milk chocolate contains less but is still toxic. White chocolate contains negligible theobromine but is still not recommended due to high fat and sugar content. Call your vet immediately if any dark, milk, or baking chocolate is consumed.

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.