We've all heard it: "dogs are allergic to chocolate." Actually, that's not such a bad way to think of it, and keeping your dog away from any and all chocolate is a must. But it is a good idea to understand the problem dogs have with chocolate, so you can be prepared in case there is a problem.

It's actually not an "allergy." As you know, chocolate contains caffeine. But it also contains a related compound called theobromine, and this is what dogs are very sensitive to. Symptoms of theobromine poisoning include obvious stomach pain, restlessness, drooling, and vomiting... and the vomit may in fact smell like chocolate, which is a definite giveaway. If enough theobromine has been consumed, then more severe symptoms will follow, such as rapid breathing, increased heart rate, trembling, and cyanotic (bluish) gums. Convulsions and death may follow. It's serious, and if your dog manages to get his paws on some chocolate, get on the phone with the vet or poison control center immediately.

To give you an idea... just one ounce of baking chocolate (which has about 10 times as much theobromine as milk chocolate) would be lethal to a small breed dog. That's just a tiny bite! Cocoa powder is very high as well, and although it's quite bitter to us, dogs seem to love it, unfortunately. You can see the importance of keeping all chocolate securely away from your dog!

If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate and you can't reach your vet, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, at 1-888-426-4435. They are staffed 24/7, and their number would be a good one to stick on the fridge. You can visit them here.


For more information on chocolate/theobromine toxicity, check out:

First Aid: Chocolate poisoning in dogs by Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald

Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs, from TalkToTheVet.com

Back to Newsletter