It is hard to resist when
your dogs give you a pity look when you are eating something. You cannot but
share your food with them. But what about when you are eating chocolates? Can
dogs eat chocolate, too?
No, chocolate is not safe for your dogs. Chocolate contains a
chemical compound called theobromine. It makes chocolate toxic for them.
Chocolates can cause different problems like vomiting, diarrhea, and, in some
cases, seizures and tremors.
Though dogs like the smell
of chocolate and may want to have some bites, you should discourage them. This
article will show the side effects and poisoning symptoms of chocolates for
dogs.
Why Is Chocolate Bad for Dogs?
You should not give
chocolate to your dogs as they are toxic because of the presence of theobromine.
It affects the nervous system of dogs and the cardiovascular system. Besides,
dogs find it difficult to digest chocolates. As a result, it can build toxic
substances in their bodies.
Dark chocolate and baking
chocolate contain a high amount of theobromine. It makes them harmful to dogs.
Milk chocolates contain lactose along with theobromine. It makes them no better
for dogs. White chocolates contain less of this toxic substance. However, it
has some other chemicals that make it no better than the others.
Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning in
Dogs
Chocolate poisoning is a
common case for dogs. You should not give them any chocolate in the first
place. However, even if they are given, you should look for the poisoning
symptoms. The symptoms include the following:
● Vomiting shortly after taking
chocolate is the most common symptom of chocolate poisoning.
● Diarrhea is another common symptom.
It happens as they cannot digest chocolate.
● Dogs often show signs of nausea. It
includes drooling and lip-smacking.
● Chocolate poisoning can make them
restless. They can appear agitated and anxious.
● Muscle tremors or shaking is a
common effect of theobromine in dogs.
What to Do If a Dog Eats Chocolate?
Can dogs eat chocolate? The
answer is no. But what if they eat some of their own? If you find such an
incident, then you should not wait for symptoms. Instead, take the following
actions immediately:
● Check the type of chocolate your
dog has eaten. Dark and baking chocolates are the most toxic ones. The
information will be handy for your veterinarian.
● You must call a veterinarian
immediately. If a vet is not available, then contact an emergency pet poison
hotline for guidance.
● Do not try to make your dog
vomit unless you are trained.
● Keep the remaining chocolate away.
Dogs may want to have more of it.
● Keep your dog in check so that it
does not take any more chocolates.
How to Keep Your Dogs Away from
Chocolate?
Keeping dogs away from
chocolates is crucial and challenging. They like the sweet scent and taste of
chocolates. Here are some tips to prevent dogs from eating chocolates.
● Keep all chocolate products out of
dogs’ reach. Store them in closed cabinets.
● Educate everyone in your family
about the harmful effects of chocolates on dogs. Children should be made aware
specifically.
● Some dogs are smart to open chests
and drawers. In such cases, you need to use a lock.
● Do not keep chocolates with dog
treats.
● Dispose of chocolate wrappers
properly. Make sure to throw them in a secure trash can. The smell of the
wrapper can attract them.
● Give your dogs other tasty and
enjoyable safe treats. It will keep their attention away from chocolates.
● Teach your dog some essential
commands. Commands like “leave it” or “don’t touch it” will be helpful in such
cases.
How Much Chocolate Is Safe for
Dogs?
It is better not to give
your dogs any chocolates. They do not provide your dogs with any benefit. But,
if your dog persists, you can give them a very small amount. The smaller the
treat, the better. Experts suggest not to give more than 0.5 ounces of milk
chocolate to their body weight.
However, the exact amount
can vary depending on dog species and health conditions. You can give white and
milk chocolate in a small amount. But you should not give them any dark or
baking chocolate at all.
Can Chocolate Kill Dogs?
Though chocolate is toxic
for dogs, it usually cannot kill them. However, if you give chocolates to your
furry friends regularly, it can develop serious health issues. Sometimes, this
can be even lethal and kill your dogs.
Fortunately, however, you
will notice different clinical signs in your dogs. You should be aware and
careful of these signs. If you notice any sign, you must immediately stop
giving them any kind of chocolates. You should also contact a vet and ask for
guidance.
Conclusion
Chocolates are not safe for
dogs. It causes different health issues, including poisoning, seizures,
vomiting, diarrhea, and more. You should discourage everyone in your family. If
they get hold of any chocolate, you should observe the signs of poisoning and
take immediate action.