We all know that chocolate can be dangerous for dogs if they eat it, but can they die from it? The unfortunate answer is yes, it can happen. Factors such as a dog’s weight, size, quantity, and the kind of chocolate they ate are all significant factors that can determine the severity of this medical problem. Below is all the information you need to know regarding chocolate and dogs.
Why Does Chocolate Cause Poisoning In Dogs?
Even a small amount of chocolate may raise your dog’s heart rate and nervous system. Depending on the kind and quantity of chocolate taken and the dog’s weight, your dog may get ill from eating it. These toxins may be found in varying amounts in various kinds of chocolate. Typically, the darker the chocolate is, the more dangerous it is to your dog. Dark chocolate contains higher concentrations of theobromine and caffeine, which are the factors that raise a dog’s heart rate and stimulate the nervous system. For example, a worst-case scenario would be a 6-month-old puppy eating a dark chocolate bar – this would mean that their life is in serious danger.
How Much Chocolate Can Kill My Dog?
Knowing how much and what chocolate your dog ate might assist in establishing an emergency. For example, moderate ingestion causes minor chocolate poisoning in dogs. Chocolate poisoning causes cardiac symptoms with severe ingestion. All chocolate consumption should be taken seriously, and immediate action is key.
Can I Reward My Dog with A Small Amount Of Chocolate?
You may want to give a sweet pup a sweet treat such as chocolate to reward them for good behavior. But the answer is DO NOT. An Oreo will not typically kill a dog, but why take the risk? Reward your dog with a yummy treat that is safe for them. Chocolate should never be provided as a reward.
Symptoms Of Chocolate Poisoning
Symptoms vary depending on the chocolate type and dosage. Vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, panting or restlessness, excessive urine, and racing heart rate are frequent dog symptoms. Muscle tremors, convulsions, and heart failure are severe indications. Aspiration pneumonia from vomiting may complicate chocolate poisoning. If chocolate poisoning is suspected, contact Pet Poison Helpline® and your veterinarian immediately.
What Would Be a Precautionary Measure If My Dog Ate Chocolate?
Please contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate. According to your dog’s size and the quantity and kind of chocolate ingested, your veterinarian may urge you to keep an eye on your pet and go to a clinic if their condition worsens. After less than two hours, your veterinarian may induce vomiting and provide multiple doses of activated charcoal, which removes toxins from your pet’s system and prevents them from entering their bloodstream. Supplemental treatment, like pharmaceuticals or IV fluids, may be required for more severe poisoning, necessitating veterinarian assistance. In addition, dogs with seizures may need to be kept at the clinic overnight for observation.
Always take preventative measures to keep chocolate away from your dog and never reward them with chocolate. Taking these steps could just save your beloved pup’s life.
