We all know that chocolate is a delightful treat for humans, but did you know that it can be incredibly dangerous for our furry friends? When it comes to chocolate and dogs health, there are crucial facts every pet owner should be aware of.
In this informative blog post, we will delve into the harmful effects of chocolate on dogs, why it is toxic to them, and what to do if your pup accidentally ingests some. Understanding the risks associated with chocolate consumption in dogs is vital for safeguarding their well-being. So grab a cozy spot with your four-legged companion, and let’s explore everything you need to know about chocolate and dogs health.
Chocolate and Dogs Health
**Why is chocolate harmful to a dogs health?**
Chocolate, as you know, is made with cocoa beans. And cocoa beans contain methylxanthine alkaloids in the form of theobromine and caffeinea, which are toxic to dogs. Chocolate can also contain high amounts of fat which can put your dogs health in jeopardy as well.
**How Much is Too Much?**
Though it’s certain that dogs and chocolate don’t mix, different dogs react differently to the methylxanthines. And reactions can vary according to the age, size and overall health of the dog. The smaller the dog the smaller the dose needed to produce an effect. And of course, if your dog’s health is already weakened by other medical conditions, he’s more susceptible. The same holds for older dogs.. Theobromine is present in differing amounts in different kinds of chocolate:
·White chocolate 1mg/oz ·Hot chocolate 12 mg /oz ·Milk chocolate 44-66 mg/oz ·Semi-sweet chocolate 260 mg/oz ·Dark chocolate 450 mg/oz (wow!) ·Baking/bitter chocolate or cocoa powder varies as much as 150-600 mg/oz.
**How much chocolate can a dog eat and survive?**
That depends in part on her weight.
Under 200 mg theobromine per kg body weight (91mg per lb) has not been observed to be fatal. A potentially lethal dose in a 16 pound. dog is only one pound of milk chocolate. Only two ounces of baking chocolate can cause serious problems in a 10-pound dog. People stop eating chocolate before getting to toxic levels, but dogs don’t!
**What are the warning signs of a problem?**
Any dog who’s eaten chocolate should be watched closely for symptoms, particularly smaller dogs, “seniors”, and dogs with health problems. Symptoms may range from from vomiting and diarrhea to panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death in severe cases.
While white chocolate may not be as likely to cause a methylxanthine poisoning, the high fat content of lighter chocolates could still lead to vomiting and diarrhea, and possibly the development of life-threatening pancreatitis. Too much fatty food will also affect a dogs health in the same way it does ours, by packing on the pounds!
**What can be done once chocolate is ingested?**
Make note of the type of chocolate ingested and how much was eaten, if possible.
Theobromine will stay in the bloodstream between 14 and 20 hours. Within two hours of ingestion, try inducing vomiting unless your dog is over stimulated, comatose, or has lost the gag reflex.
If your dog has eaten a considerable amount of chocolate, or displays any of the above symptoms, take her to the vet right away. If her symptoms are minor, make her eat activated charcoal. The unabsorbed theobromine binds to it and be passed out of the system. (In a pinch, burnt – as in thoroughly blackened – toast will do.)
**Are there any other products I should worry about?**
Yes — Cocoa Mulch!!
No, it’s not chocolate, but the two products have something in common. They’re both derived from the cocoa bean, and they’re both hazardous to your dogs health.
Cocoa bean shells are a by-product of chocolate production and are popular as mulch for landscaping. Homeowners like the attractive color and scent, and the fact that the mulch breaks down into an organic fertilizer.
**What’s the Bottom Line?**
Thanks to a more educated public, fewer fatalities from foods like chocolate are being reported these days.
Still, it pays to keep up with what’s currently known about various foods and their effects on a dogs health and well being. Grapes and cocoa mulch, for example, were discovered only recently to have harmful effects.
In an emergency, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.
When it comes to chocolate and Dogs health, it’s crucial to remember that this sweet treat can be extremely harmful to dogs. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to keep all forms of chocolate out of reach of your four-legged friends to prevent any potential health risks or emergencies. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to keeping your dog safe and healthy. If you have any further questions or experiences to share regarding chocolate and dogs health, feel free to let us know in the comments below. Your input could help other pet owners keep their beloved companions safe from this common household danger.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chocolate is good for dogs?
Chocolate is the most popular Valentine’s Day present, thus it can be challenging to get your dog anything on this particular day because chocolate is poisonous to dogs. The good news is that there is a dog-safe chocolate substitute available; it’s called carob.
How does chocolate affect dogs?
Symptoms vary depending on the kind and quantity of chocolate consumed. The most typical clinical symptoms for a lot of dogs are diarrhea, vomiting, increased thirst, panting or restlessness, excessive urination, and a rapid heart rate. Seizures, heart failure, and tremors in the muscles are possible symptoms in severe cases.
What is dog chocolate made of?
The “dog chocolate” that you may be familiar with is made from “carob,” a dark powder that is taken out of the carob tree’s pods. Dogs cannot detect the difference since it doesn’t contain theobromine, making it non-toxic to them. It also has a nice taste.
