Dog Chocolate Toxicity: What To Do
Dogs and chocolate don’t mix. Many pet owners know to keep chocolate away from their furry friends. Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, which dogs can’t process well. Even small amounts can be dangerous, depending on the type and amount of chocolate.
The signs of chocolate poisoning can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and quantity of chocolate consumed. Owners should watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, and rapid breathing after their dog eats chocolate. Knowing when to seek help is crucial.
What Should I Do If My Dog Ate Chocolate?
Common Sources of Chocolate
Different types of chocolate contain varying amounts of theobromine and caffeine, the substances that can make dogs sick. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate have high levels, making them more dangerous. Milk chocolate has less, yet can still cause problems if a dog eats enough.
- Ice Cream with Rich Chocolate
Serving size: 1 cup (148g)
Contains: 178 mg of theobromine and 5.9mg of caffeine - KIT KAT Wafer Bar
Serving size: 1 bar (42g)
Contains: 48.7mg of theobromine and 5.9mg of caffeine - Peanut M&M’s
Serving size: 1 cup (170g)
Contains: 184 mg of theobromine and 17 mg of caffeine - REESE’S Peanut Butter Cups (2-pack)
Serving size: 2 cups (45g)
Contains: 32.4mg of theobromine and 3.2mg of caffeine - Chocolate Pudding (Ready to Eat)
Serving size: 4 oz (108g)
Contains: 75.6mg of theobromine and 2.2mg of caffeine - Chocolate Doughnut
Serving size: 1 Doughnut (43g)
Contains: 12.6mg of theobromine and 0.6mg of caffeine - Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar
Serving size: 1.55 oz (43g)
Contains: 64mg of theobromine and 9mg of caffeine - Chocolate Chip Cookies (made with margarine)
Serving size: 1 Medium Cookie (16g)
Contains: 20.3mg of theobromine and 2.6mg of caffeine - Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup
Serving size: 2 Tbsp (39g)
Contains: 64mg of theobromine and 5mg of caffeine - Milky Way Bar
Serving size: 1 bar (58g)
Contains: 37.1mg of theobromine and 3.5mg of caffeine - Hershey’s KISSES (Milk Chocolate)
Serving size: 9 pieces (41g)
Contains: 61 mg of theobromine and 9 mg of caffeine - Hot Fudge Sundae Topping (Generic)
Serving size: 1 Sundae (158g)
Contains: 77.4mg of theobromine and 1.6mg of caffeine - Hershey’s Semi-Sweet Baking Bar
Serving size: 1 Tbsp (15g)
Contains: 55 mg of theobromine and 7 mg of caffeine - REESE’S PIECES Candy
Serving size: 1 package (46g)
Contains: 0mg of theobromine and 0mg of caffeine - Commercially Prepared Brownies
Serving size: 1 square (56g)
Contains: 43.7mg of theobromine and 1.1mg of caffeine
Foods with the Most Theobromine
| Food Item | Serving Size | Theobromine | Caffeine |
| Cocoa (dry powder, unsweetened, processed with alkali) | 1 cup (86g) | 2266 mg | 67.1 mg |
| Baking Chocolate (unsweetened, squares) | 1 cup, grated (132g) | 1712 mg | 106 mg |
| Cocoa (dry powder, unsweetened) | 1 cup (86g) | 1769 mg | 198 mg |
| Baking Chocolate (unsweetened, liquid) | 1 oz (28g) | 447 mg | 13.2 mg |
| Puddings, chocolate flavour (low calorie, regular, dry mix) | 1 package (40g) | 238 mg | 7.2 mg |
| Desserts, rennin (chocolate, dry mix) | 1 package, 2 oz (57g) | 242 mg | 7.4 mg |
| Puddings, chocolate flavour (low calorie, instant, dry mix) | 1 package, 1.4 oz box (40g) | 189 mg | 5.6 mg |
| Hershey’s Lite Chocolate Syrup | 2 tbsp (35g) | 68.3 mg | 2.1 mg |
| Cocoa (dry powder, high-fat, processed with alkali) | 1 oz (28g) | 685 mg | 20.2 mg |
| Dark Chocolate (70-85% cocoa solids) | 1 bar (101g) | 810 mg | 80.8 mg |
| Cocoa (dry powder, high-fat, plain) | 1 Tbsp (5g) | 92.6 mg | 10.3 mg |
If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate or notice any signs like vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, or seizures, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, your local vet, or an emergency vet as soon as possible. Treating chocolate poisoning early is crucial for the best outcome.
Why Chocolate Is Harmful to Dogs
Dogs are highly sensitive to methylxanthines, such as caffeine and theobromine, found in chocolate. Darker, more bitter chocolates like baker’s chocolate and dark chocolate contain higher levels of these substances, making them more dangerous. For example, a 50-pound dog can get just as sick from 8 ounces of milk chocolate as from 1 ounce of baker’s chocolate.
Several factors influence the toxicity of chocolate in dogs, including their size, age, and overall health. Smaller dogs are more vulnerable, as even a small amount of chocolate can be harmful. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are particularly dangerous due to their higher theobromine content.
If a dog consumes chocolate, the amount eaten is critical. Even a small piece, especially if it’s dark chocolate, can be harmful. Quick medical attention can be lifesaving in such cases.
Immediate Actions After Ingestion
When a dog eats chocolate, quick action is essential to prevent serious health issues. Below are detailed first-aid steps and guidance on when to seek veterinary help.
First Aid Measures
Assess the Situation
Immediately determine how much and what type of chocolate your dog ate. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate.
Induce Vomiting
If the chocolate was eaten within the last two hours, it might help to induce vomiting. Use 3% hydrogen peroxide, one teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight. Seek advice from a vet before doing this.
Hydrate the Dog
Encourage your dog to drink water to help flush the toxins. Watch for unusual symptoms like restlessness or tremors.
Keep the Dog Calm
Keep your dog calm and restrict its movement to avoid worsening symptoms. Make sure the environment is quiet and stress-free.
When to Contact a Vet
Immediate Veterinary Help
Contact a vet if the ingested amount is large or if the dog shows severe symptoms such as rapid breathing, frequent vomiting, or seizures.
Continuous Monitoring
Even after first aid, keep a close eye on your dog. Symptoms may appear several hours after ingestion.
Provide Information to Your Vet
When you call the vet, provide details like the type and amount of chocolate eaten, as well as your dog’s weight and breed. This helps the vet assess the situation accurately.
Veterinary Diagnosis
Determining if a dog has chocolate toxicity involves examining symptoms and performing specific tests. Immediate action is crucial to avoid severe health issues.
Clinical Assessment
The veterinarian begins with a physical exam. They look for signs like vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart rate, and restlessness. The vet will ask the owner about the type and quantity of chocolate ingested.
Small dogs are at higher risk due to their size.
Additionally, the vet may check for dehydration and neurological symptoms such as tremors. Keeping detailed records of symptoms and timing helps the vet in diagnosis.
Toxicity Testing Methods
Blood tests are often performed to measure the levels of theobromine, the toxic compound in chocolate. Urine tests can also help identify the presence of toxins.
Another method involves checking the dog’s electrolyte balance to see if there are any related issues.
X-rays or ultrasound might be used if the ingestion is suspected to cause blockages or complications in the digestive tract.
Treatment Options
When a dog has ingested chocolate, immediate and effective treatments are essential. Key options include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, and providing supportive care.
Inducing Vomiting
Inducing vomiting can help remove the chocolate from the dog’s stomach before it gets fully absorbed. This is often done using hydrogen peroxide, which should be given under the guidance of a veterinarian. The vet will instruct on the proper dosage, usually around 1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight.
This procedure is most effective if done within two hours of ingestion. Be aware that inducing vomiting isn’t always safe; it should not be done if the dog is unconscious, having seizures, or has a history of certain medical conditions.
Activated Charcoal Administration
Activated charcoal can be used to prevent the chocolate from being absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream. It works by binding to the toxins in the stomach and intestines. Typically, vets administer activated charcoal as a slurry, which is a mixture of charcoal powder and water. The initial dosage is around 1 gram per kilogram of the dog’s body weight.
This treatment is often repeated every 4-6 hours for a day or longer, depending on the severity of the toxicity. It’s crucial to follow a vet’s instructions, as incorrect usage can lead to complications.
Supportive Care and Monitoring
Supportive care includes therapies and monitoring to manage symptoms and prevent complications. This often involves intravenous fluids to keep the dog hydrated and to aid in excreting the toxins more quickly. Medications may be given to control symptoms like tremors, seizures, or heart issues.
Continuous monitoring of the dog’s heart rate, blood pressure, and overall condition is essential. The dog may need to stay at the vet clinic for several hours or even days, depending on the severity of the toxicity and the dog’s response to treatment.
Recovery and Prognosis
Dogs poisoned by chocolate can recover with prompt treatment, but the time frame and long-term effects vary based on the amount of chocolate ingested and the dog’s overall health.
Recovery Time Frame
Recovery time depends on how much chocolate the dog ate and how quickly they received treatment. Mild cases of chocolate ingestion usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Severe cases may take several days and require intensive veterinary care, including fluids, medication, and monitoring.
Immediate treatment is crucial. Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins, and intravenous fluids can aid recovery. Vomiting may be induced under veterinary supervision to expel the chocolate. Close observation for recurring symptoms is necessary during this period.
Long-Term Health Effects
If a dog recovers from chocolate toxicity, there can still be some long-term impacts. These can include heart issues, such as an irregular heartbeat or even heart failure in severe cases. Neurological effects like tremors, seizures, or permanent damage can also occur if the toxicity was severe.
For dogs with pre-existing conditions, the prognosis may be less favourable. Dogs with weaker hearts or compromised liver function might face more significant health challenges after recovery. Regular veterinary check-ups post-recovery can help manage and monitor any lingering health issues.
Preventive Measures for Dog Owners
Dog owners need to be cautious about chocolate storage and ensure everyone in the household knows the risks it poses to pets. These preventive measures can help keep dogs safe from chocolate poisoning.
Safe Storage of Chocolate
Store chocolate in high cabinets or locked drawers. Many dogs can jump onto counters or open low cupboards. Keeping chocolate out of reach is crucial. Use airtight containers to prevent dogs from smelling the chocolate and being tempted to seek it out.
Be extra cautious during holidays. Chocolates are often left out in dishes or gift baskets, making them easier for dogs to access. Inform guests of these storage rules to prevent accidental exposure.
Educating Household Members
Everyone in the household, including kids, should know that chocolate can be dangerous for dogs. Make sure each person understands the severity of the risk and what to do if a dog ingests chocolate.
Create a list of symptoms to watch for, such as vomiting or seizures. Post it on the fridge or another central location. This ensures everyone can quickly identify signs of chocolate toxicity and act promptly.
By following these steps, dog owners can minimise the risk of chocolate toxicity and keep their pets safe.
Understanding Safe Treat Alternatives
Many treat alternatives are safe and healthy for dogs. Choosing the right snacks can keep them happy and healthy.
Fruits and Vegetables
Apple slices, carrot sticks, and green beans are nutritious and safe for dogs. Make sure to remove any seeds or pits. Dogs are omnivores, so adding fruits and veggies to their diet isn’t really necessary, but it’s acceptable to give them as treats or snacks if they are healthy. Fruits and vegetables are frequently given as a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Peanut Butter
Dogs love peanut butter. Choose brands without xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Dogs can safely consume most types of peanut butter, and when consumed in moderation, it can be a great source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin.
Cooked Meats
Most dogs can safely consume cooked chicken because it is a nutritious food. One of the most popular ingredients in dog food is chicken because it is a great source of protein, which is essential for your dog’s continued health.
You can give your dog chicken by itself or in addition to his usual diet. Small amounts of plain, cooked chicken or turkey can be a tasty treat. Avoid seasonings and cooked bones.
Commercial Dog Treats
There are many healthy dog treats available in pet stores. Look for treats with simple, wholesome ingredients. Make sure to give treats in moderation.
Cheese
Many dogs enjoy cheese in moderation. Even though giving your dog cheese can be safe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Cheese has a lot of fat, so frequently giving your dog too much of it might make them obese and gain weight. Avoid giving too much to prevent stomach upset.
Providing a variety of these safe treats can keep your dog excited and healthy.
