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Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

Chocolate and Dogs Equals A Dangerous Combination

Chocolate poisoning in dogs is, unfortunately, very common and one of the leading causes of dog poisoning seen by veterinarians.

Ever wondered though, "Can a dog die from eating chocolate?"

The short answer is "Yes". And it could happen within 12 to 36 hours!

Chocolate and dogs are a scary combination.

© Photos: Pugs by Deovolenti
Chocolate Cake by Machado

Most dogs, like humans, find the taste of pure chocolate and chocolate flavored foods extremely appetizing. In addition, their habit of consuming foods very rapidly, plus the fact that chocolate is generally very readily available in most households, only adds to the problem.

Please ensure all chocolate goodies are well concealed from your eager pooch. Supervise your toddlers, and educate young children about the deadly effects of dogs and chocolate.

Note: Although dogs are the most susceptible, chocolate toxicity also affects cats, horses, birds, rodents and reptiles.

Would you know what to do if you found your dogs eating chocolate?

If you suspect your pooch has eaten chocolate
Please take your dog to your Veterinarian or contact an Animal Poison Hotline
IMMEDIATELY!
EARLY TREATMENT IS CRITICAL!
(Always keep a phone number handy for emergencies)

Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs

ALL varieties of chocolate are commonly recognized as toxic food for dogs. Dark, unsweetened Bakers chocolate is the most dangerous as it contains 8 - 10 times as much "Theobromine" as milk chocolate.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Chocolate poisoning can affect many organs.

Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs may occur within 2 - 4 hours after ingestion.

Early symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and increased urination.

Advanced symptoms include stiffness, hyperactivity, muscle twitching and tremors, and a heightened sensitivity to noise, light, and touch.

If left untreated, this can progress to hallucinations, seizures, heart attacks, coma, and death, within 12 - 36 hours.

Note: Carob dog treats are often available as a chocolate substitute. Carob is totally unrelated to chocolate and is perfectly safe.

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH?

Please consider the following as guidelines only. Even smaller amounts than listed below, depending on the dog's individual sensitivity, have been known to lead to chocolate poisoning in dogs.

Unsweetened Bakers Chocolate = 1 oz per 9 lbs (4 kg) of body weight
Semi-Sweet Chocolate = 1 oz per 3 lbs (1.5 kg) of body weight
Milk Chocolate = 1 oz per 1 lb of body weight (2.2 oz per 1 kg)
White Chocolate = 200 oz per 1 lb of body weight (440 oz per 1 kg)

WHY ARE CHOCOLATES POISONOUS FOODS FOR DOGS?

The offending components are the combination of theobromine and caffeine.

These molecules are found in many foods, beverages, plants, and medications.

Theobromine, in particular, is an extremely toxic food for dogs. It comes from the plant Theobroma cocoa - and is also found in cocoa beans, cola and tea. It is a chemical stimulant that dogs are unable to metabolize effectively. Theobromine can remain in the dog's bloodstream for up to 20 hours.

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