Chocolate treats should never be given to your dog. Chocolate contains two elements that are dangerous for dogs’ health. The first, caffeine, is one that you are familiar with. This speeds up the central nervous system and is undesirable to introduce into your dog’s body. The second element is a substance called theobromine, (C7-H8-N4-O2). Theobromine is present in chocolate, tea, soda, and some other foods. It is a natural component of the cacao beans.
While the percentage of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate, excessive levels of theobromine in a dog’s system will induce toxicity, with symptoms ranging from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased urination (as the body tries to expel the substance) to cardiac arrhythmias, epileptic seizures, internal bleeding, cardiac arrest, and death. Restlessness and agitation are other visible symptoms of health problems.
We can digest it. Dogs cannot. Their system is unable to safely metabolize theobromine. The chemical is not broken down well enough or fast enough when consumed. It affects the dog’s central nervous system and basically throws it into a panic state.
It is estimated that a dog will experience intestinal distress and, potentially, other symptoms if he eats 240 kg of dark chocolate (8.5 ounces) but may only experience intestinal distress if a corresponding level of refined milk chocolate is consumed. Levels less than 1.1 pounds may create symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea, without progressing to the fatal end of the spectrum. A medium bag of peanut M&M’s contains 396.9 grams, which is approximately 0.88 pounds. A dog who eats the whole bag will have intestinal problems but may not exhibit symptoms such as cardiac arrhythmias. A dog who eats two may die.
Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate have higher levels of theobromine than the refined chocolate candies. But no chocolate candy is appropriate for your dog to consume.
During the holiday seasons, keep an eye out for platters of brownies or chocolate cookies that are left out for guests. At Halloween time, make sure that the treats for the neighborhood kids are stored safely away. Throughout the year be careful to store your chocolate treats in locations that cannot be reached.
Should your dog get his paws on too much chocolate, contact your vet immediately. Induce vomiting, using Syrup of Ipecac or hydrogen peroxide. Follow this by administering activated charcoal, which binds with the poison to prevent processing and absorption into the dog’s bloodstream.
Discuss emergency procedures with your dog’s veterinarian during your first visit and make sure you understand how to handle an emergency. Keep contact numbers handy for your vet and a local animal hospital.