My dog ate unsweetened baking chocolate — what should I do?
Depends on the dose — check the calculator
What to do now
- Risk depends on how much theobromine your dog ate per kg of body weight (20 mg/kg → YELLOW, 40 mg/kg → RED). Use the PawPanic calculator with your dog's weight and the amount.
- If you can't estimate the amount, assume the worst and call your vet or a poison hotline.
- Remove any remaining material and keep packaging/labels — the vet will want product names and amounts.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control expert tells you to.
- Note the time it was eaten, roughly how much, and your dog's weight.
Why it's a problem
Theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines). Merck lists ~16.0 mg methylxanthines per gram for this type (upper end used).
Symptoms to watch for
Vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, restlessness, racing heart, tremors, seizures.
When: 6-12 hours; can last 72 h
Frequently asked questions
Is unsweetened baking chocolate dangerous for dogs?
It depends on the amount and your dog's weight. Theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines). Merck lists ~16.0 mg methylxanthines per gram for this type (upper end used). Use the PawPanic calculator or call your vet.
What are the symptoms if my dog ate unsweetened baking chocolate?
Vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, restlessness, racing heart, tremors, seizures.
How soon do symptoms appear after a dog eats unsweetened baking chocolate?
6-12 hours; can last 72 h
What should I do if my dog ate unsweetened baking chocolate?
If you can't estimate the amount, assume the worst and call your vet or a poison hotline.
Who can I call for help?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661, both 24/7 (fees may apply), or your nearest emergency vet.
Dose guidance
Merck: mild signs ~20 mg/kg methylxanthines, cardiac signs 40-50 mg/kg, seizures >=60 mg/kg. PawPanic flags RED at 40 mg/kg.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Chocolate toxicosis
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs
- ASPCA: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Last verified against these sources: 2026-10-13. Where sources disagree, PawPanic uses the more conservative guidance.
Also known as: baker's chocolate, baking chocolate · Category: Food · Last reviewed 2026-10-14