Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Can Dogs Eat Chocolate Ice Cream? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Risks

Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Chocolate Ice Cream

The first thing most of us learn about raising a dog is that chocolate is harmful, regardless of the format. As tasty as it may be for us on a hot day, chocolate ice cream is one treat that dogs should never eat.

How bad is this popular frozen dairy dessert? Let’s find out as we explore the science behind whether dogs can eat chocolate ice cream.

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

Why Can’t Dogs Eat Chocolate Ice Cream?

Like any other form of chocolate, chocolate ice cream is toxic to dogs due to the methylxanthines (theobromine and caffeine) contained therein. Containing 2%–4% cocoa solids, chocolate in ice cream isn’t as dangerous as other variations of chocolate, like milk chocolate bars that contain at least 10% cocoa and more concerningly dark chocolate up to 95%.

The milk and cream that head the ingredients list in chocolate ice cream recipes help dilute some of the cocoa powder’s influence, though that doesn’t make it much safer for your dog. On the contrary, these dairy products can cause additional immediate health problems.

Bowl with tasty chocolate ice cream on wooden board
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

Theobromine and Caffeine

Theobromine and caffeine are the central issues when we say that dogs can’t eat chocolate, whether in ice cream or any other form. Both are methylxanthines (a group of stimulants) that appear in cocoa, and theobromine levels are three to ten times higher than caffeine.

The total amount of these methylxanthines is a crucial measure, as the two work competitively to affect the body in similar ways. The methylxanthine concentration can vary based on the individual cocoa beans, how manufacturers process the cocoa, and the type of chocolate used in the ice cream recipe.

The following are the general methylxanthine concentrations of various chocolate forms:

  • Dry cocoa powder: 28.5 mg/g
  • Unsweetened (baker’s) chocolate: 16 mg/g
  • Semisweet and dark chocolate: 5.4–5.7 mg/g
  • Milk chocolate: 2.3 mg/g
  • White chocolate: ~0.1 mg/g

Chocolate types play a crucial role in an ice cream’s toxicity, and unsweetened and dark chocolate is more dangerous in smaller quantities. By contrast, white chocolate has a considerably lower likelihood of toxicity unless a dog eats extreme amounts.

Methylxanthine Toxicity in Chocolate Ice Cream

The exact amount of chocolate ice cream that causes toxicity varies between dogs. The lethal level of methylxanthines in cocoa is roughly 100–200 mg per kg of body weight (~45–90 mg per pound). Generally, an ounce of milk chocolate for every pound of a dog’s body weight or 0.1 ounces per pound of baking chocolate is potentially lethal.

Larger, heavier breeds can typically ingest more chocolate ice cream before showing signs of illness. At the same time, individual sensitivities, age, and health issues will make some dogs more susceptible to chocolate poisoning regardless of their size. In pregnant or nursing dogs, methylxanthines can even pass into the placenta and their milk to affect their offspring.

sick old dog on the couch with blanket
Image Credit: Lindsay Helms, Shutterstock

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

The Signs of Chocolate Poisoning

Initial Signs

Though it may not be deadly, methylxanthine poisoning can become apparent when dogs ingest as little as 20 mg per kg of body weight (~9 mg per pound). The GI tract absorbs and distributes the compounds throughout the body, which the liver recycles over several hours before they finally pass.

Initial signs of toxicity may include:
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Excessive thirst
  • Bloating
  • Restlessness

The first signs of chocolate toxicity usually occur 4–6 hours after the dog eats chocolate ice cream. Dogs digest methylxanthines slowly, though, so it may take up to 12–24 hours before signs appear. If you have any concerns that your dog has eaten chocolate in whatever form they have come across it then you should contact your veterinarian for advice. Chocolate toxicity calculators are available to help determine a course of action.

Worsening Signs

As dogs ingest more methylxanthine (>40–50 mg/kg), theobromine and caffeine can affect the central nervous system and heart muscle. Low doses can cause a decreased heart rate, while higher amounts spur a heightened heart rate and irregular heartbeat.

Progressive signs of nervous system dysfunction may include:
  • Hyperactivity
  • Increased diluted urine production
  • Muscular discoordination
  • Tremors and seizures
  • Rapid breathing
  • Increased body temperature
  • Coma

Death can occur in severe cases, with organ congestion, hemorrhages, or pulmonary inflammation resulting from a lethal dose.

dog-lying-on-the-ground-in-the-street-with-seizure-while-owner-taking-care-of-them
Image Credit: Kazantseva Olga, Shutterstock

Fat and Sugar

While the methylxanthine levels are relatively low in chocolate ice cream, the high fat and sugar content can create several other issues for dogs. Gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, may occur from these alone. In excess, the fat in chocolate ice cream can cause signs of pancreatitis within 24–72 hours after a dog eats it.

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

How Much Chocolate Ice Cream Is Toxic to Dogs?

Toxicity typically occurs when a dog eats 0.3–0.7 ounces of milk chocolate for every pound of body weight. For a 20-pound dog, roughly 6–14 ounces of milk chocolate can cause signs of poisoning.

Since chocolate ice cream contains, at most, only 20%–40% of the cocoa levels of standard milk chocolate, even small dogs would need to eat a significant amount to get sick from the methylxanthine content. Yet, with its high-fat content and added sugar, giving your dog ice cream in any amount can still be problematic and not worth the risk.

Bowl with tasty chocolate ice cream and mint leaves on wooden table
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

What to Do If Your Dog Accidentally Eats Chocolate Ice Cream

Even if your dog eats a few licks of chocolate ice cream, it’s best to play it safe and monitor for signs of toxicity over the following 24 hours.

If your dog eats several bites, you can get help managing signs and assessing the severity by contacting a Poison Control Center, including:

Alternatively, you can contact an online veterinary telehealth service for at-home advice and triage. Dogs are slow to digest and eliminate methylxanthines, causing them to linger in the system for up to 3 days.

Treatment focuses on the various signs that cause discomfort or are life-threatening until the toxic substances pass. Detoxification is a frequent solution to prevent worsening issues. Vets may need to induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to absorb the toxins before they can enter the dog’s system.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

What Can I Give My Dog Instead of Chocolate Ice Cream?

Although it takes a significant amount of chocolate ice cream to cause poisoning, the sweet, enticing flavor makes it easy for dogs to dig in and have more than they can tolerate. As a delicious, refreshing treat, it’s unfortunate that you have to keep it out of the diet.

Luckily, pet owners can find a natural alternative that offers a similar chocolatey flavor without any methylxanthines to cause issues!

Carob is a chocolate substitute derived from the edible pods of the Mediterranean carob tree. Dog treat manufacturers often use it as a pet-safe flavoring, as it is free of caffeine and theobromine and doesn’t add fat like cocoa butter. You can buy carob ice cream and bars for dogs in pet stores or online, or you can purchase the powder to make homemade dog-friendly “chocolate” treats.

pods of the carob chocolate bar on a black background
Image Credit: Aleksandr Grechanyuk, Shutterstock

divider dog paws 2 oct 2024

Conclusion

Between its toxic methylxanthines and high fat and sugar content, chocolate ice cream can cause numerous issues for dogs. The sweet flavor is enough to attract even the pickiest eaters, and in excess, it can go from creating minor stomach upset to becoming downright lethal.

A small taste likely won’t affect your dog, so you don’t have to fret if your dog sneaks an occasional lick. Yet, with so many pet-friendly alternatives available, owners should take the safe route and avoid letting their dogs eat chocolate ice cream in any form.

See Also:


Featured Image Credit: Xeniia X, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Can Dogs Eat Acorns? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Guide

Dogs love exploring their surroundings and trying new things. So, it’s not uncommon for them to become curious about natural snacks like acorns...

Do Cockapoos Smell Worse Than Other Dogs? Vet Reviewed Facts & What to Do

Cockapoos are a well-known crossbreed that originated in America and won the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. The Cockapoo’s unwaveringly friendly temperament isn’t...

15 Tips for Making Your Dog’s First Vacation a Success

Taking your dog on the road can be such a rewarding experience. Watching their excitement as they get to smell all the new...

8 Best Ear Wipes for Dogs in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Pet parents know how easy it is for your dog’s ears to get caked up with all kinds of dirt and debris. That’s...

More related

10 DIY Gifts for Dogs You Can Make for Your Favorite Pooch

Giving a gift to your dog is a great way to show appreciation and love for your four-legged friend. Gifts can range from...

When Does a Pitbull Go into Heat? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Female Pitbulls typically have their first heat cycle between the ages of 6 and 12 months, more commonly after 8 months. Like the...

Toxirn (Chihuahua & Carin Terrier Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More

The Toxirn is a designer dog breed that brings together the feisty, loyal Chihuahua with the active, fun Cairn Terrier. Toxirns are devoted...

Blue Merle Border Collie: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

The Border Collie is a friendly dog that anyone would be proud to call a pet, as they’re a loyal, energetic, and loving...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Garlic Bread? Vet Approved Facts, Safety Guide & FAQ

Maybe you had some yummy garlic bread for supper and your dog stole a bite, or you’re just wondering if you can feed them some. Can dogs eat garlic bread? The short and simple answer is no. Garlic bread is...

Can Dogs Eat Garlic Bread

Can Dogs Have Almond Milk? Vet-Verified Nutrition & Health Facts

Lactose intolerance is common in adult dogs, so it’s not recommended for them to consume dairy milk. Fortunately, your dog can enjoy many different alternatives, including almond milk, in moderation. In general, almond milk is safe for dogs to drink,...

a glass of Almond milk surrounded with almonds

Can Dogs Eat Bagels? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Health Risks

Almost every dog owner has a hilarious story about their dog stealing their food. If your dog has stolen your bagel, it may seem funny (if slightly exasperating), but the truth is that bagels can be detrimental to your dog’s...

Can Dogs Eat_bagels

Can Dogs Eat Pesto? Vet Approved Facts & Safety

Pesto is one of those delicious sauces that can completely transform the taste of any old dish into something magical and sumptuous. If you like using pesto when baking bread or serving pasta, you’re probably wondering if it is okay...

Can Dogs Eat_pesto

Are Slow Feeders Good for Dogs? Vet-Reviewed Purpose & How to Use Them

Does your dog practically inhale their food? If so, you may want to consider a slow-feeder dog bowl. Slow-feeder bowls are designed to make food harder to get so that your dog has to pick around, gathering a kibble or...

Retriever dog holding a slow bowl in it's mouth in the kitchen

Can Dogs Eat Lobster? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Providing your dog with a varied diet can help them have access to more nutrients and keep them happier, as they likely enjoy trying new foods. However, it’s important to ensure that those foods are good for canines. One item...

Can Dogs Eat Lobster

What Is Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food? Pros, Cons, & FAQ

If your dog is allergic to proteins or struggles with inflammatory bowel disease, you have probably heard about hydrolyzed protein dog food. Meat is one of the most common allergens found in dog food, which often leads to itchiness and...

dog eating from bowl in kitchen

Can Dogs Have Sushi? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

Your pet is one lucky dog if you’re wondering whether you can give your pet sushi. The sushi market has skyrocketed in recent years, with sales jumping over 23% from 2021 to 2022. People view it as a healthy alternative...

Dogster-Can-Dogs-Have-Sushi