Is 70% cacao always an emergency?

Not automatically — amount and dog size still matter — but dark chocolate should push you to call rather than wait-and-see without advice.

Is 70% cacao always an emergency?

Not automatically — amount and dog size still matter — but dark chocolate should push you to call rather than wait-and-see without advice.

Dog ate dark chocolate: next steps

Dark chocolate raises the stakes per bite. Treat the phone call as part of first aid.

Do this first

Scenario	Chocolate ingestion
Vet vs poison control vs ER	For dark chocolate, call poison control for dose triage and your vet the same time if the amount is more than a lick or two for a small dog, or if any symptoms are present. ER if tremors, collapse, or severe vomiting begin.

Immediate action steps

Secure remaining dark chocolate and note cacao percentage if listed
Estimate how much is missing and your dog's weight
Call pet poison control or your veterinarian promptly
Skip home remedies unless instructed
Go to the ER if advised or if symptoms have started

Why dark chocolate gets escalated faster

Higher cacao usually means more methylxanthines in less product. A brownie edge and a baking bar are not interchangeable risks even when both look brown.

If the package lists cacao percentage, read it to the hotline. If it does not, describe the brand and product line as precisely as you can.

Shared desserts and multiple pets

If more than one dog had access, say so. Dose math changes when the missing amount is split unknown ways — clinicians often plan conservatively.

Cats in the same kitchen are a separate conversation; keep them away from wrappers and crumbs while you focus on the dog who ate it.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.

FAQ

Is 70% cacao always an emergency?: Not automatically — amount and dog size still matter — but dark chocolate should push you to call rather than wait-and-see without advice.