Method
The calculator uses approximate methylxanthine concentrations by chocolate type and divides the estimated total dose by dog body weight.
Example
If a 20 kg dog eats 50 g of dark chocolate, the estimated dose depends on the methylxanthine concentration used for that chocolate type. Use the result as a triage prompt, not as permission to wait.
Common mistakes
Do not assume all chocolate is equal. Baking chocolate and cocoa powder can be much more concentrated than milk chocolate, and product labels may vary.
Limitations
If ingestion is recent, the dog is small, the amount is uncertain or symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian or poison helpline immediately.
References
- Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: chocolate toxicity, accessed 2026-05-17.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17