Can Dogs Eat Chocolate?

No, definitely not, is the advice Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is issuing this Easter.

Chocolate is poisonous to dogs and eating it can lead to disastrous consequences for your pet – with symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures and even death.

‘Chocolate contains an ingredient called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs,’ says Battersea’s Veterinary Director Shaun Opperman. ‘The purer the chocolate, the more theobromine it tends to have.

‘We’d advise that you keep any chocolate well away from your pets reach. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, contact your local vet immediately.’

Around the country, millions of people will be indulging their sweet tooth this Easter weekend, but not everyone will be aware of the danger that chocolate poses to their four-legged friends.

So keep your chocolate eggs and bunnies well out of reach of your dog.

5 tips for keeping your dog safe

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home share five tips
to keep your dog safe from chocolate

Do not feed your dog chocolate. If you want to make your dog feel part of the festivities, consider giving them a toy or a dog friendly treat instead. Make sure all your chocolate, including your cocoa powder and hot chocolate, is stored away safely out of reach from your dog. Don’t leave it on the kitchen counter or the table, where your pooch could easily pinch it. If you’re going to have an Easter egg hunt, make sure your dog is safely out of the way so they’re not tempted to join in the fun. Call your local vet immediately if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate. If your vet is closed, look for an after-hours clinic, as getting your dog treated quickly can be crucial when it comes to chocolate poisoning. If your dog has managed to get into the chocolate stash, take note of the brand and how much they’ve eaten before you head to the vets. If possible, also try to figure out when your dog might have indulged their sweet tooth. This information can help your vet to make the best diagnosis for your dog.

Find out more about foods which are toxic to dogs at battersea.org.uk

Lead image: Tyson pictured with his Easter toys, courtesy of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home