Chocolate poisoning in dogs – signs and what to do
Contact a vet todayContact your vet today if you think your dog has this – it can become serious. Chocolate poisoning is exposure to theobromine from chocolate, a substance that is toxic to dogs.
What you can do now
- Contact your vet.
- Note when it started, how often it happens and what else you see.
- Take a photo or short video to show the vet.
- Keep fresh water available.
- Let your dog rest somewhere calm.
Don't
- Do not give any human medicine.
- Do not wait if it gets worse.
What it is
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.[1] In severe cases, chocolate poisoning can be fatal if treatment is delayed.[1]
Signs
Causes and risk factors
How vets treat it
- Fluids/drip
- Hospitalisation
- Diet change
What the experts say
“If your dog has eaten a toxic dose of chocolate it’s important that they are seen by a vet as soon as possible. The treatment they need will depend on how much/what type of chocolate they have eaten.”
Not sure how serious it is?
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Common questions
What makes chocolate poisonous to dogs?
Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.[1]
What signs can chocolate poisoning cause?
Signs can include vomiting, diarrhoea, tummy pain, panting, shaking, seizures and a fast heart rate.[1]
When should I contact a vet?
If your dog has eaten chocolate, keep the packaging and call your vet immediately. If your dog has eaten a toxic dose, they should be seen by a vet as soon as possible.[1]
Sources
How this page was made: written with the help of AI from the sources below, then checked claim by claim against those sources. Urgency levels follow OkPaw’s fixed safety rules. It is guidance, not a diagnosis. How we write our pages
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