What should I do if my dog ate white chocolate? There’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that chocolate is dangerous for dogs, even small amounts of chocolate can be toxic. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for dogs. However, some pet owners ask questions about the safety of white chocolate due to its expanding use in various confections. Since white chocolate is different compared to milk and dark chocolate, can dogs eat white chocolate? Here’s what you need to know:
Can I Give My Dog White Chocolate?
It is unacceptable for dogs to ingest any chocolate, either white or dark. All types of chocolate contain theobromine, but different types of chocolate have different theobromine concentrations. Theobromine is toxic to dogs and may rapidly accumulate in your dog’s system in deadly amounts. White chocolate contains cocoa butter, sugar, and milk, and a small amount of theobromine. Yet all these ingredients are harmful to dogs. In case your dog eats white chocolate, theobromine toxicity is unlikely but may still occur, depending on the amount of chocolate that was eaten. Dogs should not get used to eating chocolate. Large amounts of chocolate can result in poisoning, and even death.
Why Should Dogs Never Eat White Chocolate?
There is a possibility that your dog might be poisoned if they manage to get their paws on some white chocolate. High levels of fat and sugar in white chocolate can cause an upset stomach and even serious illness. Even though white chocolate contains lesser amounts of theobromine, if your dog ingests a large amount, they can be poisoned.
Clinical signs include:
- Tremors in the muscles and limbs
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeats
- Agitation/restlessness
- Increased heart rate
Older canines and those with previous health conditions are particularly susceptible to the damaging effects of chocolate. Theobromine levels in white chocolate may cause cardiac problems in dogs of any size, age, or breed, regardless of theobromine content.
What Should I Do If My Dog Ate White Chocolate?
White chocolate has a high sugar level that may cause serious health risks to your pets. Call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 if your dog is experiencing white chocolate poisoning to get them the help they need. Depending on the amount consumed, you may need to bring your dog in for a clinic visit and your vet will determine the correct course of treatment.
