What You Should Know About Dogs and Chocolate

We've all heard chocolate is bad for dogs, but how bad is it? Generally, the type of chocolate and how much they consume determine its toxicity. Here are some things you should know about dogs and chocolate:

Methylxanthines are the culprits behind dog chocolate poisoning 

The real cause of dog chocolate poisoning is theobromine and caffeine, the two methylxanthines in cacao (the primary component of chocolate). Also, note that anything containing caffeine is poisonous to dogs.

Some chocolates are worse than others 

The amounts of theobromine and caffeine in different chocolates varies. The more concentrated the chocolate product, the more dangerous it is for dogs because it contains more actual chocolate. "Baking chocolate is the worst," says Scott Fausel, medical director of VCA Sinking Spring in Sinking Spring, Pennsylvania.

The amount of chocolate a dog consumes determines its effect 

Typically, small dogs may be poisoned by small amounts of chocolate, whereas larger may be fine after consuming the same account. You should still contact your vet whenever your dog eats chocolate, even if you think it's small.

Chocolate poisoning in dogs can be fatal 

Theobromine and caffeine can cause severe cardiovascular problems in dogs which may lead to death in some cases. "It can also lead to neurologic signs. You might notice the pet being jittery, possibly with tremors, or just acting very restless, anxious and more excited than normal," Dr. Fausel explains.