Chocolate is a popular ingredient that many people like to eat. The question is, can Chihuahua eat chocolate? It’s not recommended for dogs but if your Chi likes to eat it, give them in moderation otherwise it can cause many health issues. You probably had heard that never share chocolate with your pup, but still there is some confusion about how toxic it can be.
Read our article to know about can Chihuahuas eat chocolate, the quantity and if they consumed chocolate. What you should do.
Can Chihuahua eat Chocolate?
Vet recommended not feeding chocolates to Chihuahuas. Although all canines can become ill after consumption of chocolate. It is not good for any kind of dog, and Chihuahuas are small breeds of dog so they have sensitive stomachs and chocolate is more toxic for them than larger breeds.
Different types of chocolate contain different toxicity so, pet owners should avoid giving even small quantities of chocolate to their pets. If they consume the chocolate you should take your Chi to the vet immediately.
Why should Chihuahuas avoid eating chocolate?
Chocolate has an ingredient named theobromine that is very toxic for dogs. This ingredient affects the heart and muscles of dogs. When a dog eats chocolate his body does not process the chocolate in the way as our body works this causes sensitivity.
Different chocolates have different quantities of theobromine. Generally the darker chocolate has higher theobromine content. So cacao powder and dark chocolate contain higher levels of theobromine than milk chocolate. White chocolate has low levels of theobromine.
Effects of Chocolate on Chihuahua
The signs of chocolate toxicity occur very quickly within 1 to 2 hours, and also can take hours to occur. After the symptoms present it can remain hours and even some days.
Care and hospitalization may be required. It depends on the severity of the condition. If your Chi is very ill after consumption of Chocolate then you should take him to the vet immediately.
Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Panting or increased breathing rate
- Restless or anxious behavior
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Racing or increased heart rate
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Muscle tremors
- Increased body temperature
- Seizure
- Collapse
- Coma
- Death
What type of chocolate is more toxic to Chihuahua?
All types of chocolate are very toxic to Chihuahuas but the amount and chocolate toxicity can affect. Because caffeine and theobromine can vary.
Generally dark chocolate is more toxic to dogs. Because dark chocolate and cocoa contain more theobromine per ounce that is too much than other chocolate.
Can chocolate kill a Chihuahua?
Yes, it can cause death in dogs but it’s not common. It depends on the quantity of the cocoa powder and your dog’s size. For example if a large dog eats a piece of chocolate chip cookie the dog will be fine. And if a small dog eats a bar of dark chocolate it could be life-threatening.
What to do if your Chihuahua has eaten chocolate?
If you come to know that your Chi has eaten a lot of chocolate and is showing any symptoms related to theobromine toxicity then call your vet immediately. The sooner you consult the vet the sooner treatment will start and your dog will be safe.
You should tell the vet what type of chocolate your Chi has eaten, how much he ate and when he ate. This information will be very helpful for the treatment. If your Chi eats chocolate within the last few hours then your vet will make Chihuahua vomit.
Alternative to chocolate for Chihuahua
The dogs can’t eat chocolate but don’t worry you can treat your Chi, there are plenty of alternatives to chocolates. Choosing safe and specially formulated dog’s food that can be eaten without risks.
There are many treats available for dogs that are not only tasty but also provide health benefits for the dogs. Carob is considered as a substitute for chocolate. Fresh fruits and vegetables and super dog food can be healthy alternatives to chocolate for Chihuahuas.
Conclusion
Vet recommended not feeding chocolates to Chihuahuas. It is not good for any kind of dog, and Chihuahuas are small breeds of dog so they have sensitive stomachs and chocolate is more toxic for them than larger breeds.
Different types of chocolate contain different toxicity so, pet owners should avoid giving even small quantities of chocolate to their pets. If your Chi consumes the chocolate you should take your Chi to the vet immediately.
There are many treats available for dogs that are not only tasty but also provide health benefits for the dogs. Carob is considered as a substitute for chocolate. Fresh fruits and vegetables and super dog food can be healthy alternatives to chocolate for Chihuahuas
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