Most dog owners know that chocolate can be dangerous for their pets. But why, exactly? And from what quantity is it necessary to worry? We take stock.
Cacao contains theobromine, a bitter alkaloid compound. Metabolized by the human body, it is associated with several positive effects, such as reduced blood pressure, concentration and improved mood. Dogs, on the other hand, do not break down or metabolize theobromine as well as humans. Consumed in excessive amounts, this compound then increases the heart rate of our four-legged friends, damages their kidneys, and can stimulate their nervous system beyond measure.
Not all chocolate poisoned dogs will react the same way. The quantity ingested and the weight of the animal must be taken into account.
In general, mild symptoms of toxicity (vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness) occur when a dog consumes 20 mg of theobromine per kilogram (body weight). Cardiac symptoms occur at about 40-50 mg/kg and dangerous seizures occur at doses above 60 mg/kg.
Note that all of these symptoms usually appear within 6-12 hours after your dog has eaten too much chocolate, and can last up to 72 hours.
You should also know that the varieties of chocolate with the highest cocoa content are the most dangerous, because they contain the highest concentration of theobromine. A 70% cocoa dark chocolate contains, for example, around 802 mg/kilos, while a Twix contains around 40 mg/kg.
To help us see things more clearly, the bionica site offers a very simple toxicity calculator. All you have to do is enter your dog's weight, as well as the type and quantity of chocolate ingested (white, milk or dark).
TOXICITY CALCULATOR
If in doubt, and if the amount of chocolate ingested seems too high, it is best to call your veterinarian. Depending on the size of your dog and the amount and type of chocolate ingested, he or she will recommend that you watch for possible symptoms of poisoning, or will ask you to go to the clinic immediately.
If too much chocolate is ingested, the veterinarian may induce vomiting. Doses of activated charcoal can also help remove toxins from the body before they are absorbed into the bloodstream.
