My dog just ate some chocolate, and I know it’s bad for him. Is there a safe way to make him throw up at home, or should I rush to the vet? I want to help him quickly and safely!

Hi there! It's great that you’re reaching out quickly — chocolate can indeed be toxic to dogs, so your concern is spot-on. Here’s what you can do:

First, let’s talk about what to watch for. Chocolate toxicity symptoms can vary, but you might notice:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased thirst
• Restlessness or hyperactivity
• Rapid breathing or panting
• In severe cases, seizures or muscle tremors

The danger level depends on your dog’s size and the type and amount of chocolate eaten. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are more toxic than milk chocolate. As a general guideline, about 20mg of theobromine per kg of your dog's body weight can cause mild symptoms, while 40-50mg/kg can lead to severe reactions.

If it’s been less than 2 hours since your dog ate the chocolate, inducing vomiting might be helpful, but it’s best to get approval from a vet first. They might advise you to use 3% hydrogen peroxide — typically 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of your dog’s weight, not exceeding 3 tablespoons. Once advised, you can administer it with a syringe or turkey baster. But this should only be done under vet guidance.

If you are unable to reach a vet and want to be very cautious, observe your dog closely. If they start showing severe symptoms or you know they consumed a significant amount, this is definitely an emergency, and you should seek veterinary care without delay.

Until you get to a vet, try to keep your dog calm and limit their activity. Don’t offer food or water unless a vet suggests doing so.

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.