Although the health news regarding chocolate has been mainly positive recently, it is still true that chocolate makes a poor food for the family dog. Why?
A) Chemical reactions produce an unpleasant “chocolate dog” smell B) It causes a euphoric “high” that may make the dog hard to manage C) It contains substances that are toxic for dogs ü D) Long-term use puts dogs at risk of canine obesity
Most pet animals, not just dogs, have toxicity reactions to the theobromine and caffeine in chocolate. The symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, excessive urination, hyperactivity, weakness and seizures. Death is uncommon, but may occur with high doses — don’t leave that plate of brownies unattended! The amount required to produce toxicity varies with the type of chocolate: baker’s chocolate is much more potent than milk chocolate, for example. An amount of baker’s chocolate weighing less than one per cent the animal’s body weight could produce severe symptoms.
