Chocolate Toxicity

We all enjoy a rich chocolate bar from time to time, and dogs are certainly no exception.  Trouble is, that chocolate bar has serious implications for your pooch.  All good dog owners know not to feed his or her dog chocolate, but why is that so?

Chocolate contains methylxanthine in the form of caffeine and theobromine.  The amount of methylxanthine in chocolate depends on the type of chocolate; for example, milk chocolate contains 60 milligrams per ounce, dark chocolate contains 150 milligrams per ounce, and baker’s chocolate contains about 450 milligrams per ounce.  If consumed in sufficient quantities, theobromine is highly toxic to dogs; however, individual sensitivity, animal size, and chocolate concentration are variables in determining toxicity.  The toxic dose for milk chocolate is one ounce per one pound of body weight.  For dark chocolate, the toxic dose is one ounce per three pounds of body weight, and one ounce per nine pounds of body weight for baker’s chocolate.  In essence, two ounces of baker’s chocolate consumed by a 15 pound dog can cause great risk, while two ounces of milk chocolate consumed by the same dog will cause only digestive problems.

Clinical signs of theobromine poisoning vary depending on the amount of chocolate consumed.  If mild amounts are consumed, symptoms include hyperactivity, hyperirritability, restlessness, and slight gastrointestinal distress.  Intermediate consumption may lead to increased GI distress and cardiotoxicosis.  If high amounts of chocolate are consumed, tremors and seizures may occur.

If you think your dog has ingested any amount of chocolate, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.  While there is no specific antidote for theobromine poisoning, treatment is available and must be administered quickly.  If the quantity is unknown, vomiting must be induced within one to two hours of consumption.  Activated charcoal may be administered to absorb the toxin.  If neurological symptoms are present, such as tremors and seizures, anticonvulsant drugs may be given.  In addition, oxygen therapy, intravenous medication, and fluids may be needed to protect the heart.

Awareness is the only tool needed to protect your dog from chocolate poisoning.  Chocolate products are especially in abundance this time of year with the Valentines and Easter holidays.  Keep all things chocolate out of areas easily accessed by your dogs.  If you suspect chocolate consumption has occurred, call your veterinarian immediately, no matter the amount.