My Dog Ate Chocolate — What Should I Do? (A Port Credit Vet Explains)
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs process much more slowly than people. Cats can be affected too, but dogs eat chocolate far more often.
Which chocolate is most dangerous?
The darker and more bitter, the more dangerous. Baking chocolate and cocoa powder are the worst; dark chocolate is next; milk chocolate is less concentrated; white chocolate contains very little. Smaller dogs are at higher risk from smaller amounts.
Signs to watch for
Signs usually appear within 6 to 12 hours: vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness or hyperactivity, panting, increased thirst and urination, a racing heart, tremors and, in severe cases, seizures.
What to do right now
Note what kind of chocolate it was, roughly how much, and when. Keep the wrapper.
Call a veterinarian immediately, even if your dog seems fine. Early treatment works best.
Do not try to make your dog vomit at home unless a veterinarian tells you to.
During our hours, call Credit Landing Animal Hospital at (905) 271-5559. When we're closed, go to a 24/7 emergency hospital. See our Emergencies page.
Prevention
Keep chocolate, baked goods and holiday treats well out of reach, especially around Halloween, Christmas, Valentine's Day and Easter.
This article is general information, not a substitute for a veterinary exam.
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