Dog Chocolate Poisoning: Symptoms & Prevention

This article contains affiliate links (Amazon and others) echoing my recommendations. Each of your clicks earns an affiliate commission and helps this blog live without advertising.

Holidays and special occasions can pose risks to our canine companions, particularly when it comes to them consuming chocolate – an indulgence they often enjoy without realizing its dangers.


Understanding chocolate toxicity for dogs


When it comes to chocolate toxicity, understanding the signs and appropriate responses is crucial.

This article delves into the various aspects of chocolate poisoning in dogs, including how much chocolate is harmful, what actions to take in case of poisoning, and effective home treatments.

Safeguard your dog during celebrations to avoid chocolate poisoning risks. Learn about symptoms, treatment, and expert tips for a safe holiday season.


How much chocolate is harmful for dogs


Understanding the extent of chocolate toxicity is essential.

Dogs often experience gastrointestinal discomfort, upset stomachs, and even diarrhea after ingestion.

For larger quantities, more severe symptoms such as hyperexcitability may occur.

Neurological signs like respiratory issues, accelerated heartbeat, convulsions, and even coma may appear with toxic levels of ingestion.

 

There are over 500 varieties of chocolate, but the focus should be on dark chocolate.

The darker it is, the more cocoa it contains, the more toxic it is.

It contains theobromine, an alkaloid close to caffeine, a real poison for the body of your little companion.

If your dog has ingested a rate of 20mg of theobromine per kilo then you must urgently consult a veterinarian.


Types of chocolate and theobromine content


Out of the wide range of chocolate varieties, dark chocolate demands particular attention due to its high cocoa content.

Cocoa contains theobromine, an alkaloid similar to caffeine and highly toxic for dogs.

The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is.

Varieties such as white chocolate and milk chocolate contain significantly lower theobromine content, while dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate pose higher risks.


Calculating theobromine levels


Theobromine levels vary across chocolate types.
Here’s a breakdown of theobromine content per gram:

white chocolate: 0.25mg per gram

milk chocolate: 58mg per gram

dark chocolate: 130mg per gram

baker’s chocolate: 393mg per gram

Note that a square of dark chocolate weighs about 30 grams.

If a dog weighing around 20 pounds ingests 3 ounces of milk chocolate – which contains 58mg per gram of theobromine – he reaches a level of around 8.7mg.

The dangerous 20mg threshold is far from being reached, you don’t have to worry.

 

On the other hand, if your doggie has indulged in devouring 3 ounces of dark chocolate – which contains 130mg of theobromine – he reaches a rate of 19.5mg.

You must act quickly because it is approaching the threshold of 20mg of potentially dangerous theobromine.

You have no choice but to see an emergency veterinarian.

chocolate is dangerous for dogs


How to treat chocolate poisoning in dogs at home?


If you cannot be immediately received by a practitioner, you can try to induce vomiting.

 

  • Taking swift action: Inducing vomiting

The best method to make a dog vomit is 3% hydrogen peroxide.

You should then give him a teaspoonful for 10 pounds of body weight as soon as you notice his forfeit.

Then you renew 10 minutes later.

Do not go beyond these two doses because hydrogen peroxide is irritating to the esophagus and stomach.

The effect of hydrogen peroxide is manifested in 4 to 5 minutes.

The dog then regurgitates what he has ingested.

 

  • Utilizing activated charcoal for detoxification

The particularity of activated charcoal is that it coats toxins to expel them and thus prevents the absorption of chocolate.

If you have some (and I advise you to always have some), feel free to give him two teaspoons for 10 pounds of weight diluted in a little water.

Use a syringe (without a needle!) to administer it.

Activated charcoal powder (ad)

charcoal powder


Why immediate veterinary attention is essential


While home treatments can provide initial aid, seeking professional veterinary help is essential when dealing with potential chocolate toxicity.

Theobromine, responsible for mood regulation in humans, can be lethal to dogs even in small amounts


Safeguarding your furry companion from chocolate poisoning

As the holiday season approaches, remember to keep chocolates out of reach from your four-legged friends.

Recognizing the risks of chocolate poisoning and knowing how to respond swiftly can make all the difference in ensuring your beloved pets’ safety and well-being.


 

This blog is copyright ©2023 by gomedica.org. All rights reserved

Marie

Natural health is paramount to me, natural remedies have always been part of my life. Whatever the problem, I make sure to find natural solutions that can often be associated with traditional medicine. Everything I write here allows me to share them with you.

Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to replace medical advice or any treatment.
Keep in mind that you should contact your doctor or any qualified healthcare professional to determine if you can add a supplement to your treatment or change your diet.

Leave a Comment

By continuing to read this blog, you agree to the use of cookies. Privacy Policies

The cookie settings on this site are set to "accept cookies" to provide you with the best possible browsing experience. If you continue to use this site without changing your cookie settings or if you click "Accept" below, you consent to this.

Close