As a dog owner, you’ve probably heard that chocolate is bad for your canine companion and that you should do everything you can to keep them away from the sweet treat. Although some dogs might ingest a tiny amount without any problems, in many cases eating chocolate means a visit to the veterinarian. The guide below explores why it is so potentially dangerous.

Why Does Chocolate Harm Dogs?

The main reason dogs shouldn’t have chocolate is that cocoa and cocoa products contain theobromine, a chemical similar to caffeine. Although humans can safely ingest theobromine, dogs aren’t able to metabolize it as easily and it can build up to toxic levels.

It should be noted that different types of chocolate have different concentrations of theobromine. Dark chocolate has the most, while white chocolate has the least. The amount of chocolate eaten and the size of the dog can also influence the effects.

How Can I Tell If My Dog Ate Chocolate?

If you’re lucky, you may catch your four-legged friend in the act, and be able to get the chocolate away from them before they eat too much. Even if you can’t stop the snacking, you may find evidence—like wrappers—to clue you in. 

If you don’t have physical evidence that Fido chowed down on a candy bar, some of the signs that they consumed chocolate include:

• A period of intense hyperactivity
• Restlessness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Elevated heart rate
• Seizures
• Increased urination

If you spot any of these signs, call your veterinarian right away. Untreated, theobromine poisoning can be fatal. 

How Is Chocolate Poisoning Treated? 

If it’s been two hours or less since your dog ate the chocolate, the veterinarian might induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to prevent the theobromine from entering the bloodstream. 

For more severe cases of poisoning or if it’s been more than two hours, the veterinarian will likely use IV fluids and medications to treat the effects of the illness. In some cases, your pooch may need to spend the night at the animal hospital for observation to ensure the poison has left their system. 

Worried your dog ate something they shouldn’t have? Call A-4 Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE. They are equipped to take care of all of your pet’s needs and will even make house calls if necessary. In addition to dogs, this animal hospital is also equipped to treat small animals, including birds and reptiles. To speak with a vet, call (402) 475-2282. Visit their website to learn more about their practice and how to care for your pets.