Sweets · updated 2026-09-12
Can dogs eat chocolate?
No. Chocolate is one of the most common dog poisonings.
Why
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs metabolise slowly. Dark and baking chocolate are far more dangerous than milk chocolate; white chocolate has very little. A 10 kg dog can be seriously poisoned by around 50 g of dark chocolate.
What to do instead
Never. Keep Easter, Christmas and Halloween stashes shut away — dogs find them.
Symptoms to watch for
Vomiting, restlessness, racing heart, panting, tremors, seizures, 6–12 hours after eating. Call your vet with the type and amount eaten.
If your dog has eaten chocolate, don't wait for symptoms.
Call your vet, or in the US the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661), 24 hours a day. Have the amount, the time and any packaging ready.
And for cats?
Toxic. No. Cats are just as sensitive, they're simply less interested. Can cats eat chocolate? →
Related foods for dogs
- HoneyIn moderation
- Ice creamAvoid
- Xylitol (birch sugar)Toxic
- AlcoholToxic
- Coffee & caffeineToxic
- Cooked bonesToxic
See the whole list: Can dogs eat…? · printable fridge chart
This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs, based on published veterinary guidance (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC, VCA). It is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your dog's weight, age and medical history. If you are unsure, ask them before sharing any human food.