Do you know what to do if your dog eats chocolate?
Most of us know that chocolate is toxic to dogs! However, depending on the type of chocolate and the amount of chocolate your pup consumes, it could be a medical emergency.
In this post, we will show you which types of chocolate are the most toxic, the main signs of chocolate poisoning, and what to do if your dog eats chocolate. Check it out below!
Why is Chocolate Toxic to Dogs?
Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, two substances dangerous for dogs, as they speed up the heart rate and nervous system.
The risk of poisoning will depend on your dog’s weight, the type of chocolate, and the amount of chocolate your pup has consumed.
In this app, you can calculate your pup’s risk of poisoning. And to help you, we’ve listed the most dangerous types of chocolate below:
- Cocoa Powder: Be very careful as it is extremely toxic!
- Sugar-free bakers chocolate
- Semisweet chocolate
- Bitter chocolate
- Milk chocolate
The best way to avoid any kind of problem is to never allow your dog to have chocolate! There are other delicious and safe foods for your pup.
Read More: Can Dogs Eat Nutella?
What are the Signs of Chocolate Poisoning?
Signs of chocolate poisoning can appear 6 to 12 hours after the chocolate has been consumed. And symptoms can last for up to 72 hours. Below are some of the main symptoms to look out for:
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Excessive Urination
- Vomitting
- Convulsions
- Abnormal Heartbeat
- Restlessness
- Collapsing
What to do if your Dog Eats Chocolate?
If you believe that your dog has eaten chocolate, take him to the Vet right away!
The Vet may be able to induce vomiting if your pup has eaten less than two hours ago. Or the Vet may use high doses of activated charcoal to help the chocolate pass through your dog’s body without being absorbed.
In more severe cases, the Vet may recommend some intravenous remedies to resolve the effects of the poisoning.
Read More: 3 Pumpkin Recipes for Dogs
How to Prevent your Dog from Eating Chocolate?
A few very simple yet effective tips can help keep your dog away from chocolate. Tips we recommend:
- Keep chocolate out of your dog’s reach! Make sure that any chocolate or chocolate derivatives (such as cocoa powder) are stored in places your pup can’t reach. Preferably behind closed doors.
- Instruct your children, friends, relatives, and those who visit your home regularly to keep chocolate away from your dog.
- Watch out for festive items such as trick-or-treat baskets, Easter baskets, holiday favors, etc.
- Teach commands like “leave it”. The “leave it” command can be effective in preventing your dog from eating things that fall on the floor, such as chocolate.
- Invest time in training so that your dog is not interested in food scraps or objects on the floor.
Read More: What Thanksgiving Foods Can Dogs Eat?
Final Conclusions If Your Dog Eats Chocolate
Chocolate is very toxic to dogs. And can even lead to death depending on your pup’s weight, the quantity of chocolate consumed, and the type of chocolate.
Keep chocolate and any derivatives away from your pup and advise all family members to be extremely careful, especially during the Holidays. During festive seasons, ensure candy baskets and chocolate desserts are out of reach.
Chocolate is delicious for us humans, but for your pup it can be lethal.
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