Chapter 12 — Pets & Animals
Why is chocolate bad for dogs?
Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs metabolize far more slowly than humans. Dark chocolate is worst; a bar of baking chocolate can be lethal to a small dog. Signs: vomiting, tremors, racing heart within hours.
Follow-up questions
How much is too much?
Roughly 100 mg theobromine per kg of dog. Milk chocolate: about 45g per 5kg dog is risky. When in doubt, call the vet.
Other foods that are toxic?
Grapes, raisins, xylitol (in sugar-free gum), onions, garlic, and macadamia nuts.
How much chocolate is dangerous for a dog?
Roughly 20 mg of theobromine per kg is mild, 40–50 mg/kg serious. Dark and baking chocolate are many times more toxic than milk chocolate.
What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?
Call a vet or pet poison line immediately with the dog's weight, chocolate type, and amount. Don't wait for symptoms.
People also search
- dog toxic foods
- chocolate poisoning symptoms
- xylitol dogs
Related across The Asked