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Dog ate chocolate from trash, now has watery diarrhea. Concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Collie | Male | neutered | 5 years and 1 month old | 75 lbs

My dog got into the garbage when we were out. There was a small amount of chocolate in the garbage. He has been having watery diarrhea all night. Should I be concerned?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on December 28th, 2020

Poor Brady! Fortunately, he's a pretty big dog, so a small amount of milk chocolate is unlikely to cause more harm than the stomach upset that he's currently experiencing. However, if the chocolate in your trash can was baker's chocolate, cocoa powder, or other dark chocolates, it could be a bit more problematic. Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which can cause heart and/or neurologic issues. If Brady consumed any of these forms of dark chocolate, I recommend calling the ASPCA animal poison control line (888-426-4435) to determine if the amount he ingested is enough to cause toxicity. It's possible that Brady's watery diarrhea is due to stomach upset from ingestion of the chocolate, as well as anything else in the trash can. Dr. Orioles gave you some good advice regarding a bland diet. I agree that if the diarrhea continues for more than a day, or if he also starts to vomit, refuses to eat or drink, or becomes lethargic, that you should take him to his veterinarian for treatment. I hope that everything goes well!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    These signs could be compatible with a colitis, which is an inflammation of the last part of the intestine, the colon, usually related to dietary indiscretion. As a first approach, I would suggest to start feeding with a bland diet based on boiled chicken and rice in small portion every 6 hours for the following 48hours. Then gradually reintroduce the normal diet over 5 days. I would definitely recommend a veterinary check up if the signs persist or you notice vomiting, lethargy or inappetence. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

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