Skip to content
Dogs are precious and dearest members of our families. They bring happiness and companionship into our lives. As pet owners, we ensure their well-being and protect them from potential hazards. They love and admire us and we love to give them treats with their favorite snacks. But do you know that one of our favorite snacks can take their lives? Yes! “Chocolate”. It is hazardous for dogs. But the question that comes to our minds is what happens if a dog eats chocolate? It can cause Chocolate poisoning in dog.
What Is Chocolate Poisoning In Dog?
Chocolate poisoning is one of the most underestimated serious conditions that can have severe consequences for our furry friends. Chocolate contains many toxic compounds such as Theobromine and Caffeine that can have an extremely negative impact on a dog’s health and even can cause death.
Theobromine and caffeine are members of the methylxanthine class which is a major toxin used in many medicines. Humans can easily digest these toxins but dogs can’t. That is why they get chocolate poisoning after eating chocolate.
What Amount Of Chocolate Is Poisonous For A Dog?
The severity of chocolate poisoning in dogs depends on many factors. The size and weight of the dog, the sensitivity of individual dogs to theobromine, as well as the type and amount of chocolate consumed, all play important roles. Smaller dog breeds are more susceptible to the harmful effects of chocolate. The risk of toxicity increases as the cocoa content( Theobromine and caffeine) of the chocolate consumed increases. Different chocolates have different amounts of these compounds.
White Chocolate contains the least amount of theobromine ( Negligible to 0.1 mg/g)and is mostly considered the least toxic. However, It is still toxic for dogs due to its high-fat content. Milk Chocolate contains 1.5–2.5 mg/g of theobromine. Dark Chocolate contains a higher concentration of theobromine( 15–25 mg/g or more) than milk chocolate. Baking Chocolate contains the highest concentration of theobromine 5–16 mg/g. It is the most toxic type of chocolate for dogs.
For dogs, the toxic dose of theobromine is estimated to be 100-200 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. Still, it is crucial to remember that individual dogs can have variable levels of sensitivity, and some may display toxicity signs at lower doses.
What Are The Symptoms Of Chocolate Poisoning In Dogs?
Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dog do not appear immediately. They mostly appear after 12 to 24 hours after the ingestion of chocolate. However, It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of a dog who ate chocolate for timely negotiation. A Dog who has eaten toxic amounts of chocolate would show some symptoms such as
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Restlessness
- Shivering
- Pacing
- Frequent Urination
- Increased Thirst
- Bloating
When chocolate poisoning intensifies dog can show some symptoms such as
- Seizures
- Collapse
It is crucial to monitor your dog’s condition if your dog has eaten chocolate, and if any of these signs appear then immediate veterinary attention is necessary.
What To Do If A Dog Eats Chocolate?
If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, seek veterinarian assistance immediately. You can also call to Pet Poison Helpline. If the problem is treated early then you can save your four legged companion from any further issues.
What Are The Treatment For Chocolate Poisoning?
Treatment of Chocolate poisoning in dogs depends on the type and amount of chocolate ingested. Mostly at the start of poisoning, Vomiting is induced to eliminate the ingested chocolate from the stomach of a dog. Furthermore, activated charcoal may be used to bind the poison and prevent further absorption.
Supportive care such as intravenous fluids and medications may also be necessary, to stabilize the condition of a dog and remove all the toxins from their bodies.
How To Prevent Chocolate Poisoning In Dogs?
The first line of defense against chocolate toxicity in dogs is prevention. Keep all the chocolate goods such as cocoa powder, white, dark, or baking chocolate, out of reach of the dog. Put Them in the upper cabinets or in the drawers that have locks. Educate your family members and visitors about the risks of sharing chocolate with dogs.
Keep an eye on your dog especially during holidays like Halloween and Easter, when the consumption of chocolates spikes. If they want anything to eat provide them with other treats.
What Are The Safe Alternatives For Treats?
While chocolate is very hazardous for dogs, there are many other safe alternatives to treat your beloved furry friend. Provide them with their favorite dog foods or Dog-specific treats. These dog treats mostly contain carob instead of chocolate. Carbon is similar to chocolate but it does not contain any toxic compound. Provide your dog with a delicious option without the risk of chocolate toxicity. This ensures that your pet can enjoy treats that are both tasty and safe.
Is Chocolate Poisoning Deadly?
The severity of chocolate poisoning depends on the amount and type of chocolate being ingested but if it is left untreated it can be can cause death.
Is It Possible For A Dog To Survive Chocolate toxicity Without Treatment?
Chocolate contains toxins like theobromine and caffeine. These toxins are very hazardous for the dogs. If a dog eats chocolate, these chemicals can cause severe illness and even death. So, it is extremely important to take the doctor to a vet if it has eaten chocolate. It cannot left untreated at all.
