Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? No — Theobromine Is Toxic and Potentially Fatal
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.
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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
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
Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
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