![Why is Chocolate Bad for Dogs?](http://wildearth.com/cdn/shop/articles/why_cant_dogs_eat_chocolate-e1674658502635.jpg?crop=center&height=854&v=1709588987&width=1280)
Category_Dog Knowledge
Health
Why Can't Dogs Eat Chocolate?
Why Can't Dogs Have Chocolate?
The main reason chocolate is toxic to dogs is because it contains a chemical compound called theobromine. Theobromine is a bitter alkaloid. It's naturally found in the cacao plant, and it's also in foods such as the kola nut and the leaves of many tea plants. Chocolate comes from the cacao plant, so it contains both theobromine and caffeine. These two chemicals are largely responsible for giving humans that “happy rush” they enjoy when they consume chocolate. Unfortunately, dogs don’t metabolize caffeine or theobromine in the way that humans can, which is why our pups are significantly more sensitive to the effects of these chemicals.What Does Chocolate Do to Dogs?
Chocolate poisoning in dogs affects the heart, kidneys, and central nervous system the most. Symptoms typically occur between 4 and 24 hours after your dog has ingested chocolate, and they can last for 72 hours or more. The toxic side effects of chocolate depend greatly on the amount eaten, the type of chocolate ingested, and the size of the dog. If a larger dog eats 200 grams of milk chocolate, for example, he'll probably suffer from an upset stomach (i.e. vomiting and diarrhea). If it's 750 grams your beloved canine ingests, seizures, and cardiovascular problems are more of a concern.What Are the Symptoms of Chocolate Poisoning in Dogs?
If your dog has eaten chocolate, stay calm. Investigate and attempt to determine how much she's eaten, what type of chocolate it was, and what the ingredients were. If you choose to wait a bit before visiting the veterinarian, just remember that the sooner your dog gets treatment, the more likely they are to recover without serious or long term side effects. Here are some clinical signs to look out for, should your furry friend dine on some form of chocolate:- Agitation
- Nervousness
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Muscle tension or incoordination
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Increased urination
- Tremors
![crushed up chocolate](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0141/7137/3626/files/crushed_up_chocolate_1024x1024.jpg)