It depends on the type of chocolate and the dog's weight, because the toxic agent is theobromine (plus caffeine). The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine: baker's and dark chocolate are far more dangerous than milk chocolate, and white chocolate has almost none. A few M&Ms won't hurt a large dog, but a bar of dark chocolate can seriously harm a small one.
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As a rough guide, signs start around 20 mg of theobromine per kg of body weight, serious cardiac effects around 40–50 mg/kg, and seizures around 60 mg/kg. Darker, more bitter chocolate has far more theobromine per ounce than milk chocolate.
Vomiting, restlessness, a racing heart, and tremors — and symptoms can take 6–12 hours to appear after eating. Call poison control with the type and amount eaten so they can calculate the actual risk for your dog's size.
Educational only — not veterinary advice. Always work with your vet, especially if your dog is on medication.
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