An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Stimulants in chocolate can make dogs ill

  • Published
  • By Army Staff Sgt. Kenneth L. Kimes
  • Scott AFB Veterinary Treatment Facility
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  It's that time of year when leftover Halloween treats and ingredients for Thanksgiving and Christmas goodies are looking mighty tasty--especially to the family pet.

Most people know pets shouldn't have chocolate, but here's why. Chocolate contains two chemicals that are toxic to dogs: caffeine which will make your dog hyper excited and theobromine, which is cause for a greater concern because dogs cannot digest it like humans do.

According to web reports, theobromine is a stimulant found in the cocoa bean and the two animals that are greatly affected by it are dogs and horses. Theobromine acts as a boost in horses and as such is a banned substance in horse racing. But unlike dogs, horses can handle it better becuase they are a bigger animal.

A small piece of chocolate may not make any visible impact on dogs, but large doses of chocolate may make the dog's system purge the theobromine--the dog may vomit and suffer diarrhea. Other symptoms include increased urination, muscle twitching and excessive panting. If one ignores those symptoms and does not take the animal to a vet immediately, its heart may beat too fast and can give out.

Additionally, not all chocolates are made the same. Milk chocolate has low to moderate amounts of these toxins and white chocolate has practically none. Of greater concern are the dark and baker's chocolates because they have much higher concentrations. It's these types which are usually more prevalent this time of year. The toxins are dose dependent meaning a 70 pound German Sheppard that ate a few stray chocolate chips is in less danger than an 8 pound Yorkshire Terrier that ate the same amount.

If you know or suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, call your veterinarian for advice. The Scott veterinary treatment facility staff wishes you and your furry family members a safe and happy holiday season.

The VTF is open to all active duty, Reservists during drill, and retirees. Surgeries are reserved for military working dogs, but basic treatments and checkups are available for family pets. The Scott VTF is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are closed the last weekday of the month for inventory. We can be reached at 746-2168.