Check another food
🐾Is It Safe?

Can my dog eat Chocolate?

🍫

Do not feed

TOXIC — contains theobromine, can be fatal.

DANGER

Veterinary emergency

If your dog ate this, call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 or go to your nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.

What this means

Dogs cannot metabolize theobromine. Dark and baking chocolate are most dangerous. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, rapid heart rate, seizures, and death.

Key compound:Theobromine

Symptoms to watch for

vomitingdiarrhearapid breathingmuscle tremorsseizuresheart failure

Note for medium dogs (20–60 lbs)

A few ounces of dark chocolate can be life-threatening. Seek vet care immediately.

Reviewed against

ASPCA Poison ControlAKC

For reference only — not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog's health.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat Chocolate?▼
No, dogs should not eat Chocolate. Dogs cannot metabolize theobromine. Dark and baking chocolate are most dangerous. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, rapid heart rate, seizures, and death.
My dog ate Chocolate, what should I do?▼
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Possible symptoms include: vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, muscle tremors, seizures, heart failure.
How much Chocolate is toxic to a dog?▼
Even small amounts of Chocolate can be harmful to dogs due to Theobromine. The toxicity depends on the dog's size and how much was consumed. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance specific to your situation.
Is Chocolate poisonous to puppies?▼
Yes, Chocolate is especially dangerous to puppies because they are smaller and their bodies are still developing. Puppies may experience more severe symptoms than adult dogs. Contact a veterinarian immediately if a puppy consumes Chocolate.
Does my dog’s size matter when eating Chocolate?▼

Small dogs: Even a small piece is an emergency for dogs under 20 lbs. Call ASPCA Poison Control immediately.

Medium dogs: A few ounces of dark chocolate can be life-threatening. Seek vet care immediately.

Large dogs: Large dogs have more tolerance but dark or baking chocolate is still very dangerous.

Other danger foods

🍇Grapes🍇Grape🍇Raisins⚠️Xylitol🥑Avocado

Want to check a different food?

🔍 Search any food