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Blog > Chocolate Poisoning In Dogs & Animals

Why Is Chocolate bad for dogs?

Chocolate is toxic to dogs and other animals because it contains caffeine, and a chemical called theobromine. Unlike humans, animals are unable to metabolize these substances. Caffeine and theobromine possess the properties of a diuretic, heart stimulant, blood vessel dilator, and smooth muscle relaxant. Dogs (and other animals) cannot metabolise theobromine and caffeine as well as humans. Making them highly sensitive to the chemicals’ effects, causing the toxic compounds to build up in their system, resulting in clinical signs of chocolate toxicity. The level of toxicity or degree of chocolate poisoning is dependent on the amount consumed. Educate and encourage owners who suspect that their dog (or pet) has eaten chocolate, or if they have any of the below symptoms, to contact you (their veterinary practice) straight away.  


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What Are The Clinical Signs & Symptoms Of Chocolate Poisoning?

The symptoms & signs of chocolate poisoning depend on the amount and type of chocolate ingested. Signs typically present themselves within 6-12 hours of ingestion and can last up to 72 hours. The symptoms of chocolate poisoning are:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Rapid Breathing
  • Low Blood Pressure
  • Seizures
  • Increased Heart Rate
  • Increased Body Temperature 

How Much Chocolate Is Bad For Dogs & Animals?

The danger to a dog (or pet) depends on the type of chocolate, the pet's size, and the amount consumed. Knowing what type of chocolate has been consumed will help determine if there is an emergency. For dogs - you can use a Dog Chocolate Toxicity Meter. This quick calculator will tell you how severe the case may be, based on the type of chocolate and quantity consumed, as well as the weight of the dog. If your clients are at all worried, encourage them to visit you immediately.


What Chocolate Is Most Toxic/Poisonous?

As a general rule, the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is. This is because there are larger quantities of theobromine per 100g. Theobromine is most prominent in coca, therefore any food product with high volumes of cocoa will result in high levels of theobromine. Typically - 'baking chocolate (unsweetened)' has the largest quantity of theobromine per 100g (1297mg per 100g). Dark chocolate (70-85% coca) contains 802mg of theobromine per 100g.

What to Do If a Dog or Pet Eats Chocolate

If a pet owner suspects or sees their dog, rabbit, or cat eating chocolate, they should act fast. Make sure to recommend that they don't wait to see if the animal develops any signs of toxicity. As we know, consuming chocolate is not fatal for our customer's pets - but it can make them severely ill. The longer they wait to see you (a veterinary professional), can worsen the effects, as well as increase the treatment cost. 

The sooner a client visits a veterinary professional from the initial consumption of chocolate, the cheaper & less invasive it typically is. You will also see a better prognosis/outcome if you treat early. If clients wait until their furry friend has already developed clinical signs and is affected by the poison, make sure to educate them that it makes for a much more expensive veterinary visit!

It's good advice to ask that they try to salvage any remains of the wrapper/packaging or find it online and take a picture, and provide their pet's weight. This will help you determine the level of toxicity.


Dog & Pet Friendly Chocolate Alternatives 

Rest assured, if your clients are looking for a sweet treat or an Easter surprise for their loved pet, there are a number of pet-friendly chocolates on the market. For peace of mind, recommend that they check the packaging - ensuring that it contains no caffeine or theobromine. If they are unsure, recommend avoiding it or contacting the seller to be sure. Who's to say chocolate is the only way? There is an abundance of treats on the market for pets, not just chocolates. Perhaps you sell some - encourage clients to pop into your pet store or practice and ask about the treats available for their pet. 

Can Dogs & Other Animals Have White Chocolate?

It's recommended not to give dogs or any other animal white chocolate. White chocolate products do not contain enough theobromine to be toxic and it's unlikely that they will get poisoning from consuming white chocolate. However, it's still unhealthy and can induce other health risks. White chocolate is high in sugars, fats and other substances that can all have a series of effects on your patient's health. Some dogs are also lactose-intolerant. As a general rule, if clients ask - Recommend that they avoid all chocolates or cocoa-based products when choosing a tasty treat for their pet.

Chocolate Poisoning - The Treatment

There is no antidote or medicine to cure theobromine poisoning. However, the treatment you offer will depend on how much and what type of chocolate was consumed (if known). Such treatments can include: 'Induced vomiting' - where an injection is given to make them sick. 'Activated charcoal' - helping to absorb any remaining toxins. 'A fluid drip' - helping support their vital organs and preventing dehydration while their body flushes the toxins away. 'Sedation' - the patient may need to be sedated to stop/prevent seizures. And lastly 'close monitoring' - you may advise that the patient is kept overnight.  



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