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Why is chocolate bad for dog?
Why is chocolate bad for my dog or any pet?
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It is known that dogs should not be given chocolate because it contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs cannot properly metabolize. These substances become toxic to a dog when consumed and stored in the body. Some of the factors are the type of chocolate eaten, the amount of chocolate eaten, and the dog’s weight.
Why is it bad for dogs to eat chocolate:
Theobromine Toxicity:
Theobromine is a toxic compound in chocolate that affects dogs. For humans, theobromine is processed rather quickly; however, dogs metabolize it more slowly, and toxic levels can build up.
Caffeine:
Chocolate contains caffeine, which is also bad as it can excite a dog’s nervous system and heart. Although this exhibits little toxicity compared to theobromine, it can still compound the negative effects.
Symptoms of chocolate toxicity:
Mild Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and an increase in thirst or urination.
Severe Symptoms: Muscle shaking, seizures, lightheadedness, fast heartbeat, and worst pale or death.
Types of chocolate and their corresponding toxicity:
Dark Chocolate & Baking Chocolate: These contain more theobromine than other chocolates and are poisonous to a dog’s health.
Milk Chocolate also contains theobromine, although in a smaller quantity. It may not even be safe, considering that it may be taken in larger doses.
White Chocolate: It contains a minimal amount of theobromine and caffeine but can still upset your stomach because of its high fat and sugar content.
What to Do if a Dog Eats Chocolate:
If a dog eats chocolate, it is advisable to take the animal to a vet. Based on the amount and type of chocolate that is ingested, treatment may include:
- Drinking or forcing the animal to vomit.
- Give activated charcoal to absorb the toxins or, in serious cases,
- Hospitalization.
In summary, chocolates pose great danger to dogs because theobromine and caffeine cannot be broken down easily by the dog, hence causing them toxic conditions that range from mild to dangerous, life-threatening symptoms.