Even if it's just a little bit, chocolate can cause some nasty side effects for your pup because their bodies aren't built to handle the compounds and stimulants chocolate contains.

Keep scrolling if you're curious to learn more about why this popular indulgence is such a danger to our canine companions.

Why Can't Dogs Eat Chocolate?

Dogs can't eat chocolate because the compound theobromine, which comes from cacao seeds, has a toxic effect on them. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous as it is richer in theobromine, but lighter kinds of chocolate, like milk chocolate, are also poisonous.

Even white chocolate, which is very low in theobromine, can cause an upset stomach if your dog manages to wolf down enough of it.

Caffeine, a stimulant found in chocolate, is also unsafe for dogs so, in addition, coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other products containing caffeine are a big no-no. In brief, a dog's metabolic system can't handle theobromine and caffeine as well as that of a human.

Signs of Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs

Signs of chocolate toxicity can vary in type and severity depending on your dog's size and how much they managed to eat. Signs may include:

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Peeing excessively

- Tremors

- Pacing

- Agitation & restlessness

- Racing heart

- Seizures

- Drinking more

- Panting

What if My Dog Ate Chocolate?

Even if your dog seems normal, it's best to contact a vet or your local pet poison hotline for advice straight away. It may also help to use a chocolate toxicity calculator like the one VetsNow provides (https://dog-chocolate-calculator.vets-now.com/).

Again, the toxic effects of chocolate can vary from dog to dog. For example, a toy or small-sized dog may suffer more serious effects than a large or giant breed would even if they ate the same amount of chocolate.

Can Chocolate Kill Dogs?

Fortunately, death due to chocolate toxicity is pretty rare, but it can happen. This is why it's essential to make every effort to keep chocolate out of your dog's reach and treat toxicity as an emergency situation. The faster your dog gets the treatment they need, the stronger their chance of making a full recovery.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate toxicity is no joke, and the sweet treat should never be offered to dogs as a snack. If you want to treat your dog to something delish, chocolate treats formulated for dogs is a much better option! Please contact your vet if you have any questions or concerns about chocolate toxicity in dogs.

 Sources:

-  https://www.vets-now.com/2018/03/white-chocolate-bad-for-dogs/

- https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chocolate-poisoning-in-dogs

-  https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/can-dogs-eat-chocolate