The Dangers of Chocolate for Dogs
Chocolate contains two chemical compounds – caffeine and theobromine – that are toxic to dogs (VCA Animal Hospitals). Theobromine is the main toxin found in chocolate and works as a stimulant similar to caffeine (Merck Veterinary Manual).
When dogs eat chocolate, the theobromine is absorbed into their bloodstream. Dogs cannot efficiently metabolize and eliminate theobromine like humans can. This causes theobromine to accumulate to toxic levels, resulting in poisoning (VCA Animal Hospitals).
The severity of chocolate toxicity depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as well as the size of the dog. The higher the cocoa content of the chocolate, the more dangerous it is for dogs (PetMD).
Amount of Chocolate Consumed
The amount of chocolate consumed plays a big role in determining how toxic it will be for your dog. In general, the more chocolate eaten, the more dangerous it becomes.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, the toxic component in chocolate is theobromine. The amount of theobromine varies depending on the type of chocolate. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the higher the theobromine content and the more toxic it is to dogs (source).
For example, baking chocolate contains the highest concentration of theobromine. So even a very small amount could result in toxicity. Milk chocolate contains less theobromine, so a larger amount would need to be ingested to cause chocolate poisoning.
PetMD provides a chocolate toxicity meter showing the amount of different types of chocolate and at what quantities it becomes concerning. For example, as little as 0.5 ounces per pound of body weight of baking chocolate could be toxic for a dog (source).
So the type of chocolate and exact amount consumed are important factors in determining potential toxicity and if symptoms may develop.
Signs of Chocolate Poisoning
The most common symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dogs include:
- Vomiting – This is often one of the first signs of chocolate toxicity, and may occur within 30 minutes to 4 hrs after ingestion.
- Diarrhea – Many dogs develop loose stools or diarrhea after eating chocolate.
- Hyperactivity – Dogs may seem restless, nervous, excited or hyperactive.
- Panting – Rapid breathing or panting is another common symptom.
- Increased thirst and urination – Dogs may drink excessively and need to urinate frequently.
- Elevated heart rate – A dog’s heart rate may increase above normal levels.
- Muscle tremors or seizures – More severe chocolate poisoning cases may lead to muscle tremors, tremors or seizures.
The severity of symptoms depends on the amount and type of chocolate ingested. The darker and more concentrated the chocolate, the more toxic it is to dogs. Even small amounts of baking chocolate can cause poisoning in smaller dogs. If a dog consumes a large amount of chocolate, life-threatening symptoms like heart arrhythmias, coma or seizures may occur. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows any concerning signs after eating chocolate.
Source: https://veterinaryemergencygroup.com/blog/chocolate-toxicity-in-dogs/
When to Induce Vomiting
If your dog has consumed a large amount of chocolate within the past 2 hours, inducing vomiting may help eliminate some of the toxins before they are absorbed into the bloodstream. According to AKC, hydrogen peroxide 3% solution is commonly used and recommended for inducing vomiting in dogs. Typically, 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight is given by mouth using a syringe or turkey baster. Do not induce vomiting if your dog is already showing signs of illness such as vomiting or diarrhea.
It’s important to consult your veterinarian before inducing vomiting, as the risks may outweigh the benefits in some situations. For example, dark and baking chocolates are more toxic, so vomiting should be induced quickly if large amounts were ingested. Vomiting is not advised if your dog has consumed chocolate along with raisins or xylitol, as these ingredients are also toxic. Your vet can help determine if inducing vomiting is the right approach based on the type and amount of chocolate eaten.
Activated Charcoal Dosage
Activated charcoal works by binding to toxins in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream. It adsorbs many drugs and toxins, including theobromine from chocolate. When administering activated charcoal, it’s important to determine the correct dosage for your dog.
According to the ASPCA, activated charcoal should only be used for high dose chocolate ingestion cases, particularly when vomiting results have been poor [1]. For mild to moderate ingestion, inducing vomiting may be sufficient.
The typical activated charcoal dosage is 1-4 grams per kg of body weight, given every 4-8 hours. To calculate the dosage, first determine your dog’s weight in kg. Then multiply the weight in kg by the dosage (1-4 grams per kg). This will tell you how many grams of activated charcoal to administer. For example, for a 20 kg dog, the dosage would be 20-80 grams.
Activated charcoal is available in different forms – powder, tablet, or liquid suspension. Administering a slurry of activated charcoal powder mixed with water is most effective. Tablets or capsules can also be given, but may be less effective than the slurry form.
Always consult your veterinarian before giving any medication, including activated charcoal. Overdose is possible with high doses, so careful calculation of dosage for your dog’s weight is important.
Calculating Dosage
To calculate the proper dosage of activated charcoal to give your dog after chocolate exposure, you will need to know your dog’s weight. The general guideline is to administer 1-5 grams of activated charcoal per kg of body weight. Here is the formula:
Dosage (grams) = Dog’s weight (kg) x 1-5 grams/kg
For example, if your dog weighs 10 kg:
Dosage (grams) = 10 kg x 1-5 grams/kg
Dosage = 10-50 grams
So for a 10 kg dog, the dosage would be 10-50 grams of activated charcoal. Always consult your veterinarian for the appropriate dosage for your specific dog.[1]
Some key factors to consider are the amount of chocolate ingested, the type of chocolate, and time since ingestion. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain more of the toxic substance theobromine and thus require more aggressive treatment.
The dosage may need to be given multiple times, every 4-6 hours for up to 3-4 doses. Monitor your dog closely and contact your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.[2]
Administering Activated Charcoal
When administering activated charcoal to your dog after potential chocolate poisoning, it’s important to do so safely and effectively. According to the ASPCA, the easiest method is to mix the proper dosage of charcoal powder into a bowl of canned dog food or broth1. The food helps encourage your dog to eat the charcoal mixture voluntarily. If your dog is unwilling to eat the mixture, you may need to administer it directly into the mouth using a syringe or turkey baster. Keep your dog’s head tilted upwards and squirt small amounts of charcoal slurry to the back of the tongue, allowing your dog to swallow between squirts. Take care not to accidentally inhale any charcoal powder. If difficulty arises, wrap your dog snugly in a towel to keep the head still and mouth open. Wear gloves when handling activated charcoal to avoid staining hands. Once administered, prevent your dog from drinking water for at least an hour, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the charcoal. Offer praise and treats for cooperative behavior.
Additional Treatment
In addition to inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal, other treatments may be needed for chocolate poisoning in dogs depending on the amount consumed and the dog’s symptoms.
Intravenous (IV) fluids help maintain blood pressure and protect the kidneys by flushing theobromine out of the dog’s system. IV fluids also prevent dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea. Vets typically administer IV fluids for at least 12-24 hours in cases of chocolate toxicity (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chocolate-poisoning-in-dogs).
If the dog is showing signs of a racing heart rate, irregular heart rhythms, or high blood pressure, the vet may administer medications to stabilize the cardiovascular system. These may include calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, or antiarrhythmic drugs (https://healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/chocolate-poisoning-dogs).
Seizures caused by chocolate toxicity are treated with intravenous or rectal valium. Oxygen therapy may also be used if the dog is having breathing difficulties (https://www.aspcapro.org/resource/how-treat-chocolate-ingestion-dogs).
In severe cases, dogs may need to be hospitalized and placed in intensive care for close monitoring and rapid treatment. With aggressive therapy, most dogs recover fully from chocolate poisoning.
Preventing Chocolate Exposure
To avoid accidental chocolate ingestion, it’s important to keep chocolate away from your dog at home. Here are some tips for keeping chocolate out of reach:
Store chocolate in high cupboards or cabinets your dog cannot access. Keep chocolate locked away or up high where your dog cannot reach it. Consider storing chocolate in a pet-proof cabinet or pantry.
Don’t leave chocolate unattended. Even if you have chocolate up and away, be sure to put it away properly after any use. Never leave chocolate sitting out on tables or countertops.
Pick up any dropped pieces immediately. If any chocolate happens to fall on the floor, pick it up right away before your dog can get to it.
Keep the trash can secure. Make sure your garbage cans have tight, locking lids so your dog cannot get into the trash. Also keep trash cans in cupboards.
Avoid eating chocolate around your dog. The smell can entice them, so don’t eat chocolate foods in your dog’s presence.
Use bitter apple spray deterrents. You can spray things like cords or furniture with a bitter apple deterrent spray (VCA Animal Hospitals). This gives a bad taste to deter chewing.
When to Seek Help
If your dog has ingested any amount of chocolate, it’s important to contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic right away. Chocolate contains ingredients called methylxanthines that are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Theobromine and caffeine are two examples of methylxanthines found in chocolate [1].
Some signs of chocolate poisoning that require immediate veterinary care include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased thirst, panting, elevated heart rate, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death. The amount ingested, type of chocolate, and size of the dog all play a role in the severity of poisoning [2].
Even if your dog is not showing symptoms yet, do not wait to go to the vet. Early treatment with activated charcoal and other therapies can help reduce absorption of the toxins and prevent severe poisoning. Call your vet or emergency clinic for advice if your dog ate any chocolate. They can calculate toxicity based on the type and amount ingested and advise you on next steps [3]. When in doubt, seek professional veterinary care immediately.