Has any dog actually died from eating chocolate?

Hello and thank you for reaching out with your question about chocolate and dogs. Yes, unfortunately, chocolate can be toxic to dogs and, in severe cases, it can be fatal. This is because chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are stimulants that dogs metabolize very slowly.



The severity of chocolate poisoning depends on the type of chocolate, the amount consumed, and the size of your dog. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate, for example, have higher concentrations of theobromine compared to milk chocolate and are more dangerous.



If your dog has eaten chocolate, you might notice symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting, restlessness, or an increased heart rate. These signs can progress to muscle tremors, seizures, or even heart failure if your dog ingests a large amount.



For at-home care, if your dog has consumed a small amount and is not yet showing serious symptoms, you might try to offer them water to help dilute the contents in their stomach and monitor them closely. However, it’s critical to call a veterinarian if you're concerned, as they may advise inducing vomiting or providing supportive care.



Keep a close watch for signs of severe distress, like persistent vomiting, seizures, or lethargy, which require immediate veterinary attention.



For peace of mind and personalized advice, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can guide you through the next best steps for your furry friend’s health.