My dog ate dark / semisweet 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 ~5.6 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 dark / semisweet chocolate dangerous for dogs?
It depends on the amount and your dog's weight. Theobromine and caffeine (methylxanthines). Merck lists ~5.6 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 dark / semisweet chocolate?
Vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, restlessness, racing heart, tremors, seizures.
How soon do symptoms appear after a dog eats dark / semisweet chocolate?
6-12 hours; can last 72 h
What should I do if my dog ate dark / semisweet 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: semisweet, chocolate chips, dark chocolate · Category: Food · Last reviewed 2026-10-14