Why You Shouldn’t Be Giving Your Dog Chocolates?

my dog ate chocolate will he die

A major chunk of pet parents know that chocolates should not be given to their furry pals. But do you know why? Well, chocolates contain a chemical substance called ‘thebromine’ which is very toxic and can be hazardous to your canine. Different types of chocolates have different amounts of thebromine content in them.

Types of Chocolates and Their Toxic Levels

Types of Chocolate Toxicity
White chocolate Not really toxic
Milk chocolate Mildly toxic
Bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate Quite toxic
Baking or Dark chocolate Very toxic
Dry cocoa powder Extremely Toxic

White chocolates are non-toxic but they can cause slight problems. Hence, it is advisable to not give your dogs any kind of chocolates. Better to be safe than sorry.

Symptoms Related to Chocolate Consumption

Carefully monitor your canine for the next 24 to 36 hours, if you believe he ate some chocolate. See if any symptom arises or not. The following are symptoms which you can look out for.

  • Excessive breathing
  • Restlessness
  • Seizures
  • Diarrhea
  • Frequent Urination
  • Vomiting
  • Increase in heart rate

You can also call up your vet immediately instead of waiting for the symptoms to develop.

What to Do If Your Dog Consumes Chocolate

The following needs to be done when you notice your dog consuming chocolates.

  • Give him a tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide mixed with either water or ice-cream (preferably vanilla flavor).
  • Make him move around so as to induce vomiting.
  • If hydrogen peroxide isn’t available, try giving him activated charcoal mixed in water. It will prevent the absorption of the toxic elements.
  • If nothing seems to work, rush your dog to the vet without any delays.

If Not Chocolates, Then What

Since chocolates are a big NO, there is a substitute called ‘Carob’ which pet owners can give their dogs. It has a similar rich dark brown color and is naturally very sweet. It can be ground into powder or made into chips just like normal chocolate. Carob is safe for dogs because it does not contain the dangerous substance thebromine.

Carob contains the following which is not at all harmful for your pal.

  • Vitamins A, B, B1, B2, B3, B6, D and E\
  • Protein
  • Fiber
  • Calcium
  • Pectin (prevents cancer, diabetes and various other diseases)

Make sure to keep chocolates far away from your canine. Try and use carob if you wish to feed him something chocolaty. Your pet’s health should be your topmost priority so be very vigilant and maintain a strict diet with the odd day of giving him tasty treats such as carob.