Glossary

Chocolate toxicity

Poisoning from the theobromine and caffeine in chocolate, which is more dangerous the darker the chocolate and the smaller the dog.

Also called: chocolate poisoning, theobromine poisoning, dog ate chocolate, cocoa poisoning

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, stimulants that dogs process slowly. The danger depends on the type of chocolate, the amount eaten and the dog's size. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate and cocoa powder contain far more theobromine than milk chocolate, and white chocolate has very little.

Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, fast breathing and heart rate, tremors and, in severe cases, seizures. They may take several hours to appear. Some chocolate products, such as sugar-free ones, may also contain xylitol.

If your dog has eaten chocolate, call a veterinarian or a pet poison helpline right away with the product, the amount eaten and your dog's weight, rather than waiting for symptoms. Do not try home remedies. Keep chocolate and baking supplies out of reach, especially around holidays.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Xylitol A sugar substitute in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods and some peanut butters that is highly poisonous to dogs and a veterinary emergency. Grape and raisin toxicity Poisoning from grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants that can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, at amounts that are hard to predict.