Dogs can have a severe reaction to chocolate, depending on the dog’s weight and the amount of chocolate they eat. If you know your dog ate a lot of chocolate, keep an eye out for signs of poisoning. In this article, you will learn what happens if a dog ate a lot of chocolate, the dangers of chocolate, and what to do if your dog ate a lot of chocolate.
Dangers of Chocolate
Chocolate’s theobromine and caffeine content may increase heart rate and arouse the nervous system in canines. Dogs metabolize these chemicals slowly, so they build up in their system and take negative effects in the body. The high fat and sugar contents in chocolate can also make a dog uncomfortable and sick. The concentration of these poisonous substances varies throughout brands of chocolate. Cocoa powder – which is the most toxic, baker’s chocolate, dark chocolate, and milk chocolate are all poisonous to your furry friend.
Can I Treat My Dog with Some Chocolate?
While bigger dogs may be able to tolerate tiny quantities of milk chocolate, it is always a bad idea to give your dog chocolate as a treat. Do not take the chance and put chocolate where your dog can get to it. Keep all chocolate products, including cocoa powder and hot chocolate mix, in an inaccessible area such as a high cupboard so that your dog does not feel tempted to get into them. Chocolate should never be left out where the dog can get it, so be sure to remind your visitors and kids of this.
How Much Chocolate Is A Lot for My Furry Friend?
Your dog can be poisoned by chocolate if he eats as little as one ounce of milk chocolate per pound of their body weight. For smaller dogs in particular, the effects of even a single chocolate bar’s worth of chocolate, an average of 1.55 ounces, may be devastating. Giving your dog any amount or sort of chocolate is dangerous and irresponsible.
Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning
The signs of chocolate poisoning vary slightly across breeds and the dog’s size. The real determining factor is the dosage and the type of chocolate consumed. Usually, they appear in every breed within 6 to 12 hours from first ingestion of any chocolate. In some cases, the symptoms can last up to 72 hours and include the following:
- Tremors in the muscles and limbs
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeats
- Agitation/restlessness
- Increased heart rate
Whom Should I Call in the Case of Chocolate Poisoning in a Dog?
Pet Poison Helpline® should be contacted at (855) 764-7661 if your dog ate a lot of chocolate so the experts can answer any questions or concerns. In severe cases, it is best that you visit your nearby veterinarian, who can monitor your dog for clinical signs. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, call Pet Poison Helpline® and your vet right away!
