I accidentally dropped a piece of avocado on the floor and my dog ate it. I'm worried now—how much avocado is too much for a dog? Should I be rushing to the vet or is he gonna be okay?

Hey there! No need to panic just yet. Dogs can sometimes eat things we wouldn't dream of tasting, and they come out just fine. Avocado in small amounts isn't usually harmful to dogs, but it’s great that you’re being cautious.

The main concern with avocado is a substance called persin, but dogs are generally more resistant to it than other animals. Still, the pit can be a choking hazard and too much avocado might upset their stomach.

Here's what to keep an eye out for:

• GI Upset: Vomiting, diarrhea, or not wanting to eat could mean their tummy’s a bit unhappy.
• Choking: If he managed to get the pit, watch for any signs of choking. Coughing, pawing at the mouth, or difficulty breathing are big red flags.

Most avocado-related issues aren't emergencies unless there's an obstruction from a pit or severe reaction.

What you can do:

• If he seems fine, just keep an eye on him for the next day. Keep his activities light and his water bowl full.
• If any vomiting or diarrhea occurs but he’s still drinking water and energetic, try feeding a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice.
• Call your vet if symptoms persist for more than a day or if he seems lethargic and not himself.
• If there’s any sign of choking or distress, head to the vet immediately.

You're doing great by watching out for him. 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.