What to do when your dog eats chocolate

Your dog just got his paws on some Easter eggs!

Sometimes, even the most responsible of dog owners can slip up. And, when that happens, our dogs can end up eating something they shouldn't have. While it is something every dog owner dreads, fear not, for we have all the information you need to know about what to do when your dog eats chocolate.

So, sit back and let's get started! 

Safety Tips for Easter Celebrations with Dogs

Easter is a time of celebration and joy, especially for our furry friends who are always eager to join in the festivities. However, as much as we love to spoil our pups with treats during this time, we must remember that some foods can be harmful to their health.

Chocolate is a common Easter treat that should be avoided at all costs, as it can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large amounts. While it may be tempting to share your Easter eggs with your four-legged friends, it's best to keep them out of reach and stick to dog-friendly treats instead such as pieces of fruits (banana, apple, cucumber) or natural treats.

After all, we want our pups to enjoy the holiday just as much as we do!

Why is chocolate toxic to dogs?

Chocolate is known to contain theobromine, a caffeine-like molecule that affects the central nervous system.

Dogs are unable to metabolize this molecule effectively. The level of risk is determined by the amount and type of chocolate ingested, as well as the dog's size and health.

Luckily, few dogs eat fatal amounts of chocolate, but smaller doses can still cause seizures and other (serious) symptoms.

Recognising chocolate poisoning in dogs

 Symptoms of chocolate poisoning include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Restlessness
• Increased urination
• Tremors
• Seizures

Reactions can be different depending on how much your dog ate and their sensitivity to chocolate.

3 things to do if your dog eats chocolate

In the event that your furry companion devours chocolate, it's essential to take action immediately.

1. Call your vet or the animal poison control hotline: 1300 869 738 (AU)
2. They will need to know your dog’s breed, weight, and age as well as how much and what type of chocolate your dog has eaten.
3. Do not try to induce vomiting on your own. Wait until directed to by your vet or poison control to do so.

You vet might ask you to monitor your dog's symptoms.

Are all types of chocolate toxic to dogs?

Did you know that baking chocolate and dark chocolate are higher in theobromine than milk or white chocolate?

But that doesn't mean you should feed white chocolate to your dog. In fact, white chocolate will not cause any problem of toxicity but dogs can still get sick from all the fat and sugar.

Carob, the dog friendly alternative to chocolate

Carob is a fruit that grows in a dark brown pea pod. It doesn't contain caffeine and theobromine making it a safe alternative to chocolate.

It is naturally sweet and available in powder or chips to make treats for both you and your dog.

Want to be the first to get your paws onto the hottest topics? Subscribe to our newsletter!

--------------------------------------------------------------------

The Doggy Grub blog is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners achieve happier, healthier lives, changing the way we feed our dogs one bowl at a time! If you would like to know more about our fresh food head to Doggy Grub