Is White Chocolate Bad For Dogs?

Wondering if white chocolate is bad for dogs? Find out below just how toxic this sweet treat is for your dog, should they accidentally ingest some.

Has your pup gotten into your stash of white chocolate?

Or perhaps you’re wondering if white chocolate is a safe alternative to regular milk and dark chocolates.

Most people know how toxic chocolate can be for dogs, but there is a myth that they can instead have white chocolate.

Let’s dig into that theory…

Is White Chocolate Bad For Dogs?

Yes.

It’s still chocolate, and it still contains theobromine, the toxic chemical that affects dogs the most.

The caffeine found in chocolate is also a health concern, along with some other ingredients as well.

While it’s true that white chocolate contains less theobromine, it’s still very hazardous, particularly for small and elderly dogs, or those with other health concerns.

The chocolate with the most theobromine is baker’s chocolate, followed by dark, milk, and then white chocolate. This is where the misinterpretation comes from.

What To Do If Your Dog Eats White Chocolate?

It’s always a good idea to take the time to assess the situation after your dog accidentally eats chocolate of any kind.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Find and keep the wrapper if you can. You should check out the other ingredients to make sure none of them are toxic as well, and it’s handy to have ready for your vet should you need to take them in. You can also find out how concentrated the white chocolate was by the packaging.
• Clean up any remaining bits of the white chocolate so they don’t continue to snack on it.
• Watch your dog closely for any changes in appetite or mood.

Look For The Signs of Chocolate Poisoning

The signs include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Restlessness
• Increased urination
• Elevated/abnormal heart rate
• Unresponsiveness

Related: What To Do If Your Dog Eats a Chocolate Chip Cookie

Contact Your Veterinarian

Your vet will be able to help you come up with a plan of action for your dog, whether it be at home care, or at the vet.

You can also call the Pet Poison Helpline (855-213-6680) for advice.

PetMD also has a chocolate toxicity meter that you can use to figure out how serious the situation is for you.

Did your dog accidentally eat white chocolate? What worked for their plan of care? Let us know in the comments below.

FrugLife strives to provide accurate advice and helpful resources to pet owners. Your pet’s health is important to us, so please remember that the content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and is for entertainment purposes only. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s medical or behavioral condition.

*Post originally published September 2022, last updated February 2023.