My dog just ate a brownie when I wasn’t looking. I know chocolate isn’t good for dogs, but what should I do now? Should I be worried or take him to the vet just in case?

Hey there! I totally understand your concern. Chocolate can be harmful to dogs due to the theobromine it contains. The level of concern really depends on the type of chocolate and the size of your dog. Here’s what to watch for:

• Initial symptoms you might notice include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, or hyperactivity.
• More serious symptoms can include increased heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, or even collapse. These require immediate veterinary attention.

Dark chocolate and baker's chocolate contain more theobromine than milk chocolate, which makes them more toxic. Small dogs are at a higher risk than larger dogs because it takes less chocolate to cause serious problems.

If your dog ate less than 20 mg of theobromine per kg of body weight (around 0.5 ounces of milk chocolate per pound of body weight), they may just have an upset stomach. Anything more, especially with darker chocolate, and you should definitely keep a closer eye on them.

At home, you can try to keep your dog calm and offer small amounts of water. Don't try to induce vomiting or give any home remedies unless directed by a vet.

If your dog shows any severe symptoms like those mentioned above, or if they ingested a large amount of chocolate, head to the vet right away.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.