If you give a dog chocolate, what will happen? - briefly
If you give a dog chocolate, it can cause severe toxicity due to the presence of theobromine and caffeine in chocolate, which dogs metabolize much slower than humans. Symptoms may include restlessness, heart problems, muscle tremors, internal bleeding, and even death in severe cases.
If you give a dog chocolate, what will happen? - in detail
If you give a dog chocolate, several serious health issues can arise due to the presence of theobromine and caffeine in chocolate. Dogs lack the enzymes needed to metabolize these compounds efficiently, leading to toxicity. Symptoms typically manifest within six to twelve hours after consumption and may include restlessness, increased urination, heart arrhythmias, tremors, seizures, and even death in severe cases. The severity of symptoms depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, as well as the dog's size and weight. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are particularly dangerous due to their higher concentrations of theobromine and caffeine. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial if a dog ingests chocolate, as prompt treatment can prevent or mitigate these adverse effects.