Signs of Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs

The symptoms of chocolate poisoning are diverse and often delayed. The poisoning can be so dangerous because owners don’t always realize the exact problem.

Theobromine is responsible for chocolate poisoning. Theobromine affects the central nervous system of dogs, causing convulsions and increased blood pressure. Externally, however, the symptoms of poisoning can only be seen at a later stage.

The symptoms of poisoning

Diarrhoea and vomiting are symptoms of chocolate poisoning. These symptoms are common among our four-legged companions. They are often harmless. Owners often realize too late that the darling requires urgent medical care. Some dog owners don’t know that chocolate is toxic to dogs.

Restlessness and trembling are also symptoms of chocolate intoxication. More obvious signs are seizures. Arrhythmias cardiacas even occur in some cases. The animal’s body also heats up. Some quadrupeds are very thirsty and have a strong urge to urinate. They drink excessively. They do this to restore the balance of moisture in the body. Your faithful pet may feel that his body is reacting in an abnormal way. The most obvious sign of poisoning, however, is increased nervousness.

If you notice that your dog has chocolate poisoning, it is important to act quickly.

The symptoms of chocolate intoxication in dogs can be difficult to differentiate from other diseases. The symptoms of chocolate poisoning in dogs are not visible until two to four hour after consumption. Theobromine is now largely in the blood of the dog, and vomiting will not help. Chocolate poisoning can only be treated by a veterinarian.

Without treatment, depending on the severity of the chocolate poisoning in the dog’s case, it could lead to death within a half-day. Even if the dog survives, it can still display long-term effects such as hair loss or liver dysfunction. Read the guide “What to Do if Your Dog Has Eaten Chocolate?” to learn how to act correctly after your dog has eaten some chocolate.