If your dog eats chocolate, you should take the following steps immediately:
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet right away. Provide details about the type and amount of chocolate consumed, and your dog's weight. This information helps assess the risk and guide treatment
- Do not attempt to induce vomiting at home without veterinary guidance. Inducing vomiting should only be done by a vet or under their instruction, as improper induction can be harmful
- Watch for symptoms of chocolate toxicity, which can appear within 2 to 12 hours and include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, restlessness, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, coma
- If your vet advises, they may induce vomiting and administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of theobromine and caffeine, the toxic compounds in chocolate
- Your dog may require hospitalization and supportive care, including intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and medications to control heart rate, seizures, or agitation
- Keep chocolate and other toxic foods out of your dog's reach to prevent accidental ingestion
In summary, immediate veterinary attention is crucial if your dog eats chocolate, even if they appear fine initially, because chocolate poisoning can worsen rapidly and may be fatal without treatment
