Can I feed my dog Chocolate?

Can I feed my dog chocolate? 

A great question and an important fact that you need to know for your dogs health and wellbeing. 

The answer is No! Chocolate is toxic to dogs. 

What makes chocolate poisonous to dogs?

The main ingredient of chocolate is cocoa. The cocoa bean contains two naturally occurring stimulants, theobromine and caffeine, both are especially toxic to dogs, cats and other animals.

All types of chocolate are toxic including cocoa powder and as a rule, the darker the chocolate the higher the toxicity levels. 

What are the symptoms of chocolate toxicity?

If your dog has ingested a potentially toxic amount, they will begin to show signs and symptoms of poisoning between four to 24 hours after eating the chocolate.

Early signs are mild and include:

• Gastrointestinal upset
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Excessive urination
• Increased thirst

Signs can progress to include:

• Hyperactivity
• Increased heart rate
• Hyperthermia
• Pancreatitis

The more severe signs include:

• Depression
• Heart arrhythmias and heart failure 
• Tremors
• Seizures
• Coma

If treatment isn't sought, symptoms of chocolate toxicity can quickly progress. While chocolate can make dogs severely ill, the good news is it is rarely fatal. However, young dogs, senior dogs, and dogs with pre-existing conditions, particularly heart conditions, are more at risk for poisoning than others.

What to do if your pet eats chocolate

If you are fortunate enough to catch your pet in the act, if possible try to remove it from their mouth (if safe to do so) and remove any other available chocolate from their reach.

If all you found was the remains of empty wrappers or crumbs and you suspect they have ingested chocolate, determine what type of chocolate and contact your vet asap. (Do not try to induce vomiting yourself). Your vet will advise you on the best course of action. 

It’s Easter and you want to treat your dog!

Easter is a time we love to spend with family and friends, for many it includes giving and receiving chocolate. But what about our furry friends?  We now know chocolate is bad for dogs so what else can we give to our dogs, so they are included in the celebration?

Well, we have a list for you!
 
Aussie Pooch Treats
We have 3 different treats that have been trialled, tested and LOVED by thousands of dogs. All our Aussie Pooch treats are made right here in Australia and are 100% healthy and natural treat for your pet. If your pooch hasn’t tried them before, now is the best time to grab a bag.

• Aussie Pooch Cookies
• Aussie Pooch Crunchy Biscuits
• Aussie Pooch Soft & Chewy Chicken Bites

KONG Wobblers
The KONG Wobbler is an action-packed toy that is a mentally stimulating food dispenser. The KONG shaped toy sits upright until nudged by the dog’s paw or nose, dispensing tasty rewards as it wobbles, spins and rolls. The unpredictable movement stimulates natural instincts keeping even the most seasoned users challenged. They come in small and large sizes.

Full range of toys and treats – click here for our full range of toys and treats, which includes a great selection of KONG toys,