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Halloween candy and dogs: what to do

Toxic. Halloween candy can hide chocolate, xylitol (in sugar-free candy) and raisins, and swallowed wrappers can block the gut.

If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now

United States

Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI

United Kingdom

Canada

Australia

New Zealand

Belgium

France

JM

PR

Singapore

Switzerland

TT

VI

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Halloween candy and dogs: key facts

Verdict
Toxic · Emergency: get help now
What it can do
Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness or agitation, fast heart rate and increased thirst. All 7
What to do now
Call your vet or a pet poison line now. All steps
Sources
Pet Poison Helpline, ASPCA. Reviewed 9 October 2026.

What to do now

  1. Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
  2. Gather the wrappers or packaging to show what was eaten.
  3. Call even if your dog seems fine; don't wait for signs.

Don't

  • Don't leave candy bowls or bags where your dog can reach them.

Symptoms to watch for

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Restlessness or agitation
  • Fast heart rate
  • Increased thirst
  • Straining or not pooping (swallowed wrappers)
  • Seizures

Why

Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous types of chocolate, xylitol can cause serious problems, and raisins can cause kidney failure. Foil and cellophane wrappers can cause a life-threatening blockage.

Sources

Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.

General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.

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