What to do if your dog eats chocolate:
A guide for UK pet owners

As much as we love our dogs, they don’t always understand what’s safe to eat.

Chocolate, while a delicious treat for humans, can be dangerous—even fatal—for our furry friends. This blog will guide you through what to do if your dog ingests chocolate and provide the best resources available in the UK to help you act quickly and responsibly.

Why is chocolate dangerous for dogs?

Chocolate contains two harmful substances for dogs: theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic to their systems. Dogs metabolize these compounds much slower than humans, making even a small amount potentially harmful. The level of danger depends on:

  • The type of chocolate (dark chocolate and cocoa are more toxic than milk or white chocolate).
  • The amount ingested relative to your dog’s size.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs

Symptoms of chocolate toxicity can appear within 6-12 hours of ingestion and may include:

  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Increased heart rate
  • Restlessness or hyperactivity
  • Muscle tremors
  • Seizures
  • In severe cases, collapse or death

What to do if your dog eats chocolate

  1. Stay Calm
    It’s essential to act quickly but calmly. Panicking can delay your ability to respond effectively.

  2. Assess the Situation

    • Determine what type of chocolate your dog ate (dark, milk, white, or cocoa powder).

    • Estimate how much chocolate was consumed and your dog’s weight.

  1. Contact Your Vet Immediately
    In the UK, your vet is the best first point of contact. Share as much information as possible, including the type and amount of chocolate ingested, your dog’s weight, and any symptoms they may already be showing.

  2. Call an Emergency Pet Helpline
    If your vet isn’t available, contact an emergency helpline:

    • Animal PoisonLine: 01202 509 000 (available 24/7)
      It costs £35 – £45 per phone call. (£35 is charged 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday. | £45 is charged at all other times including bank holidays.)  

    • PDSA Pet First Aid: Visit PDSA’s website for advice and resources.

    • Vets Now: 0131 202 1052 (emergency out-of-hours care across the UK).

  1. Follow Professional Advice
    Your vet or helpline will advise whether you need to bring your dog in for treatment. Treatments may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal to limit absorption, or IV fluids for severe cases.

Please always seek professional advice and do not try anything suggested from an internet search, unless it has been recommended by a qualified professional. 

Preventing chocolate ingestion

  1. Keep chocolate out of reach: Store it in high cupboards or secure containers.

  2. Educate family and guests: Ensure everyone knows not to share chocolate with your dog.

  3. Opt for dog-safe treats: Reward your pet with specially designed treats instead.

In conclusion

If your dog ingests chocolate, acting quickly can save their life. Contact your vet or an emergency helpline immediately and follow their advice. To avoid a repeat incident, ensure chocolate is stored safely and educate everyone in your household about the dangers.

By staying prepared and vigilant, you can protect your furry friend and ensure their safety, even when mishaps happen.

Further reading and useful resources

PDSA – Chocolate poisoning in dogs 

Vets Now – Chocolate toxicity calculator for dogs