Dark Chocolate and Dogs...Don't Let Your Pooch Mooch

Search here to quickly find the information you're looking for.

Custom Search


Does your best buddy beg for chocolate? She doesn't know that dark chocolate and dogs don't mix. So don't let her find out the hard way.

She depends on you to keep her safe and healthy. Be strong, say no.

Dark Chocolate Theobromine

Resist those big puppy dog eyes. You can do it. Don't let your dog guilt you into sharing your chocolate.

Why? Dark chocolate theobromine and caffeine.

Dogs are sensitive to these stimulants and are unable to eliminate them quickly. In large amounts they can cause your dog to...

  • quiver
  • convulse
  • throw up
  • urinate more
  • suffer from diarrhea
  • have a rapid heart beat
  • or worse

Fortunately, death by dark chocolate appears to be a rare occurrence for dogs.

But dogs have a nose for chocolate which can lead to trouble. Go to ASPCA:Animal Poison Control Center to learn more.

Baking Chocolate

Which type of chocolate is the most dangerous for your best friend? Baking chocolate. Keep your unsweetened dark chocolate and dogs far apart.

Why baking chocolate? Because its theobromine content is much higher than other types of chocolate. Just one ounce or less may be toxic. Generally, the smaller the dog, the less it takes. But each dog is different.

Just remember dark can be deadly. Keep the chocolate up high.

Cocoa Mulch

Those husks of roasted cocoa beans make great mulch. But some dogs will munch on them. So be careful where you use it. It can be as dangerous as chocolate for the same reasons (theobromine and caffeine).

You might want to test your dog before you spread it around the yard.

Chocolate Alternative

Just can't stand to eat dark chocolate without giving your pooch a treat? Offer a carob based one.

It's a safe chocolate substitute for dogs. None of those nasty stimulants to cause problems.



Dark chocolate for dogs, not a good idea. Go ahead, hoard it and don't share. A moment of weakness could cost your dog her life.



Return from Dark Chocolate Dogs to Effects of Chocolate

Do you sell healthy dark chocolate? Promote it for free. Join my Healthy Chocolate Directory.

Return to Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate Home Page

Didn't find what you're looking for? Search here.

Custom Search



footer for dark chocolate dogs page