1. What is Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs?

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs. The severity depends on the type of chocolate, amount consumed, and the dog's size. This calculator helps estimate the toxicity level based on these factors.

2. How the Calculator Works

The calculator uses the toxicity formula:

Where:

• Chocolate (g) — Amount of chocolate consumed in grams
• Theobromine (mg/g) — Theobromine content per gram of chocolate
• Dog Weight (kg) — Weight of the dog in kilograms

Explanation: The formula calculates the dose of theobromine per kilogram of the dog's body weight, which determines the toxicity level.

3. Understanding Theobromine

Details: Theobromine content varies by chocolate type:

• White chocolate: ~0.1 mg/g
• Milk chocolate: ~2 mg/g
• Dark chocolate: ~5-10 mg/g
• Baker's chocolate: ~14-16 mg/g
• Cocoa powder: ~20-30 mg/g

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Weigh the chocolate if possible, or estimate based on packaging
• Use the highest theobromine value if unsure about chocolate type
• Weigh your dog or use the most recent vet weight
• When in doubt, contact your veterinarian immediately

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the symptoms of chocolate poisoning?
A: Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, increased urination, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Q2: How quickly do symptoms appear?
A: Symptoms typically appear within 6-12 hours after ingestion but can take up to 24 hours in some cases.

Q3: What should I do if my dog ate chocolate?
A: Use this calculator to estimate toxicity, then contact your vet or pet poison control immediately with the results.

Q4: Are some dogs more sensitive than others?
A: Yes, puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with heart conditions may be more sensitive to the effects of theobromine.

Q5: How is chocolate toxicity treated?
A: Treatment may include inducing vomiting, activated charcoal, IV fluids, medications for symptoms, and hospitalization in severe cases.