My dog ate charcoal. Is it safe? Should I be worried about my pet?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | neutered | 6 months and 3 days old | 22 lbs
I was having a BBQ and Charlie ate a few chunks of charcoal that fell from the ashtray, is it safe?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 30th, 2018
Charcoal is not toxic. As long as whatever you were cooking on the charcoal was also not toxic it should be fine. It may upset the belly a little bit too but should not cause anything too terrible. I suppose there is a very small chance the charcoal could not have been chewed at all and get lodged somewhere inappropriate. However, even if this were the case the body will break down through normal GI activity. Hope this puts your mind at a little ease!
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on March 12th, 2018
A small amount of charcoal shouldn’t cause a problem. In fact veterinarians give activated charcoal to dogs to absorb toxins when they have been poisoned. The charcoal is inert and should pass through the intestinal tract without a problem. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Reeses.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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