How much chocolate chips is dangerous?
One standard chip weighs about a third of a gram, and a cup of chips is roughly 6 oz. Chocolate chip cookies usually contain far less chocolate per bite than plain chips. But a whole batch of cookie dough also brings raw dough risks (expanding yeast or uncooked flour) plus raisins or macadamia nuts in some recipes, both toxic to dogs.
| Dog weight | Mild signs (20 mg/kg) | Heart effects (40 mg/kg) | Seizures (60 mg/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lb | 8 g | 16 g | 25 g |
| 10 lb | 16 g | 1.2 oz | 1.7 oz |
| 20 lb | 1.2 oz | 2.3 oz | 3.5 oz |
| 40 lb | 2.3 oz | 4.7 oz | 7.0 oz |
| 60 lb | 3.5 oz | 7.0 oz | 10.5 oz |
| 80 lb | 4.7 oz | 9.3 oz | 14.0 oz |
What to do if your dog ate chocolate chips
Note the time and keep the wrapper. Then call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435. If it was eaten within the last 2 hours and the dose is significant, your vet will likely give a medicine that makes your dog vomit. That is far safer than trying it at home. Dogs that already have symptoms may need IV fluids, heart monitoring and medication to control tremors.
Frequently asked questions
How much chocolate chips is toxic to a dog?
Mild signs can start at about 20 mg/kg of methylxanthines. For chocolate chips that is about 1.2 oz for a 20 lb dog and 3.5 oz for a 60 lb dog.
What are the symptoms of chocolate poisoning?
Vomiting, diarrhea, thirst, restlessness, panting, a racing heart, tremors and in severe cases seizures. They usually begin 6 to 12 hours after eating.