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Chocolate Toxicity Formula:
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Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that is toxic to dogs. The severity of toxicity depends on the amount and type of chocolate consumed, as well as the size of the dog. This calculator helps determine the potential risk level based on these factors.
The calculator uses the chocolate toxicity formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the dose of theobromine per kilogram of body weight, which determines the toxicity level.
Mild Toxicity: 20-40 mg/kg - May cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness
Moderate Toxicity: 40-60 mg/kg - Can cause hyperactivity, tremors, rapid breathing
Severe Toxicity: >60 mg/kg - May lead to seizures, heart failure, or death
Note: These are general guidelines - individual sensitivity may vary.
Tips: Enter the amount of chocolate consumed in grams, select or enter the theobromine content (default is 5.5 mg/g for milk chocolate), and your dog's weight in kilograms. All values must be greater than zero.
Q1: How much chocolate is dangerous for my dog?
A: The danger depends on the type of chocolate and your dog's size. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain much more theobromine than milk chocolate.
Q2: What are typical theobromine levels in different chocolates?
A: Milk chocolate: ~5.5 mg/g, Dark chocolate: ~14 mg/g, Baking chocolate: ~16 mg/g, White chocolate: negligible amounts.
Q3: What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?
A: Contact your veterinarian immediately, especially if the calculated toxicity is above 20 mg/kg. Have the chocolate packaging available if possible.
Q4: How long does it take for symptoms to appear?
A: Symptoms usually appear within 6-12 hours after ingestion but can take up to 24 hours in some cases.
Q5: Are some dogs more sensitive than others?
A: Yes, individual sensitivity varies. Puppies, small breeds, and dogs with health conditions may be more severely affected.