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Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?
Do not give chocolate to dogs.
Is chocolate safe for dogs?
Chocolate is made from cocoa. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain the most of the compounds that make it dangerous. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs cannot process well. Darker chocolate is more dangerous, and any amount eaten should be taken seriously.
What to do instead
- Store chocolate, cocoa powder and chocolate baked goods out of reach
- If your dog ate any, call your vet or a poison hotline and tell them the type of chocolate, how much, and your dog's weight
- Keep the wrapper so you can read the ingredients
- Choose a treat made for dogs instead
What to avoid
- Dark, semi-sweet and baking chocolate, and cocoa powder (the highest risk)
- Chocolate mixed with raisins, macadamia nuts or coffee
- Cocoa bean mulch used in gardens
How much chocolate can my dog have?
There is no amount of chocolate that we can recommend for dogs. Skip it entirely.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Signs can include vomiting, restlessness, a fast heart rate, tremors and seizures. The darker the chocolate, the smaller the amount that can cause a problem.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat chocolate?
No. Chocolate should not be given to dogs of any age.
What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your dog seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your dog's weight. Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of chocolate for my dog?
There is no amount of chocolate that we can recommend, and some dogs react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Chocolate?