Dog Emergency: What to Do If Your Dog Ate Chocolate

Dog Ate Chocolate? Here is What to Do

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. The severity depends on the amount and type of chocolate.

1. Calculate the dose. Theobromine toxicity depends on your dog weight and the chocolate type. White chocolate has virtually none. Milk chocolate is moderate. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. A simple rule: if your dog ate a Hershey bar, don-t panic. If they ate baker chocolate, call your vet immediately.

2. Watch for symptoms. Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased thirst, panting, muscle tremors, and seizures. Symptoms typically appear 6-12 hours after ingestion.

3. Call your vet or poison control. Have the chocolate type, amount, and your dog weight ready. The ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) charges a consultation fee but saves lives.

4. Don-t induce vomiting unless instructed. If your vet tells you to, use hydrogen peroxide (1 tsp per 10 lbs). But don-t do this blindly — some chocolates don-t require it.

5. Prevent future incidents. Store chocolate in sealed containers, high shelves, or drawers. Dogs are incredibly resourceful when they smell something tempting.