How much chocolate will kill a dog?

It depends on the dog's weight and the chocolate type — as little as 20 g of baking chocolate can be dangerous for a small dog. Never guess; call your vet or Animal PoisonLine with the amount and type.

How long after eating chocolate do symptoms appear?

Usually within 2–12 hours, though mild signs can take longer. Do not wait for symptoms if you know chocolate was eaten.

Is white chocolate toxic to dogs?

White chocolate contains very little theobromine and is rarely toxic in small amounts, but high fat and sugar can still cause vomiting and pancreatitis.

A–Z topic · P

Poisoning in pets

Quick answer

Chocolate is toxic to dogs because of **theobromine**, which dogs metabolise slowly. **Dark and baking chocolate are most dangerous**; milk chocolate is less so but still risky in quantity. If your dog ate chocolate, call your vet or **Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000** immediately with the type, amount, and your dog's weight — do not wait for symptoms.

Key takeaways

Chocolate is toxic to dogs because of theobromine — dark and baking chocolate are most dangerous.
Call your vet or Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) immediately with type, amount, and your dog's weight — do not wait for symptoms.
Never induce vomiting unless a vet tells you to; use our chocolate calculator only as a rough guide before you phone.

The full guide

Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.

Read: Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

How much chocolate will kill a dog?: It depends on the dog's weight and the chocolate type — as little as 20 g of baking chocolate can be dangerous for a small dog. Never guess; call your vet or Animal PoisonLine with the amount and type.
How long after eating chocolate do symptoms appear?: Usually within 2–12 hours, though mild signs can take longer. Do not wait for symptoms if you know chocolate was eaten.
Is white chocolate toxic to dogs?: White chocolate contains very little theobromine and is rarely toxic in small amounts, but high fat and sugar can still cause vomiting and pancreatitis.