Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog ate chocolate icing. What signs mean I need a vet right now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | 9 lbs

My 9 lb chihuahua ate 5 (2 inch) mini eclairs with chocolate icing about 2.5 hrs ago. He seems fine, acting normal. I really can't afford vet right now. What can I do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on December 2nd, 2016

Most chocolate icing contains very little actual cocoa, so I doubt that this will be enough to cause any problems - even in a very small dog like Romeo. He may have an upset stomach if he isn't used to eating "people food" like this, but otherwise he will probably be just fine. Signs of chocolate toxicity to watch for would include restlessness or hyperactivity, muscle tremors, or even seizures. If you have any concerns about how he is acting in the next 12 hours, it would be best to try and find a way to have him seen by a vet if you can.

Vote icon

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 20th, 2018

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Chocolate is toxic to dogs, but the toxicity depends on the type of chocolate (dark chocolate being the most toxic), the amount consumed, and the size of the dog. Jazz is a relatively large dog, but I recommend keeping a close eye on him. If he develops signs such as hyperractivity, vomiting, shaking, or has tremors, he should be seen by a vet immediately. I hope this helps and that all is well!

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 1st, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! If it was milk chocolate, you are likely to see only mild signs (vomiting or diarrhea) -or nothing at all. If it was dark chocolate, you need to take JC to the vet hospital IMMEDIATELY. He is at risk of severe signs like heart problems, seizures, etc. Best wishes to you and JC!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored