Emergencies
My Dog Ate Chocolate, What Do I Do?
Updated : September 15, 2026
Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance dogs metabolize much more slowly than humans — that's what makes it toxic to them. The darker the chocolate, the higher the risk.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Restlessness or excessive panting
- Increased heart rate
- Tremors or seizures in severe cases
- Excessive thirst
Symptoms can appear 6 to 12 hours after ingestion, and can last up to 3 days in severe cases.
What matters: the amount of chocolate, the type (darker = more dangerous), and your dog's weight.
What to do right now
Don't wait for symptoms to appear. Call an emergency vet or clinic immediately. Don't induce vomiting without professional advice.