Can Dogs Eat White Chocolate? Affects, Steps And Safer Options

Why is white chocolate harmful for dogs ?

We on many occasions let our dog have some chocolates thinking, they can feel delighted and rewarded like us. But do you ever realize that, chocolate is a curse for them, constituting theobromine and caffeine as its main ingredient, these substances take longer time for dilution in dogs stomach, which can cause severe medical situations, hazardous for the dog's well being.

On the other hand "white chocolate" contains less amount of theobromine and caffeine but it packs a good amount of fat and sugar percentage which can serve the way for inflammation of the pancreas called pancreatitis, hampering the overall body functions, so this is rather not advisable by the doctors due to extreme health deterioration.

What is theobromine and why its fatal for dogs?

Theobromine is a injurious substance that is present in cocoa of the chocolate which is life threatening for dogs. This compound due to such negative health impact on dogs does not break down into energy easily and take a long time gap and large attempts for the ingestion process. 

Thus allowing the toxin to settle down and form a bond, which the body is not able to absorb resulting in reactions such as illness and infections. The percentage of theobromine and caffeine is significant in dark and milk chocolates, on comparing it with white chocolates but its relatively easy for us humans to process this substance.

My doggy ate white chocolate

If by chance you fed white chocolate to your dog unknowingly and numerous times it's kept on places that are approachable like kitchen tops, tables and even lying on the floor and your dog eats it, due to their lack of unawareness of the consequences. So in these circumstances, you not need to worry or take the matter into your own hands, until the portion consumed was less in quantity but rather keep in mind that dog's size plays an important role. 

Fortunately if the amount is minute with dog being mature or big enough, so this should not cause any medical controversies but if the dog is a puppy or small sized dog, this is something to put your consideration upon. 

On the other hand irrespective of the size of dog if the consumption was heavy or over eaten, you should keep cool and rush for medical assistance in such cases, as this is potentially risky.

Feeding my dog white chocolate on regular basis, nothing bad happened?

This might be happening due to low percentage of cocoa containing theobromine equalizing to lower level of toxicity, but some contains active amount of xylitol hampering body function, so better check the ingredients list on wrapper and feeding this to dogs is a injustice and eventually you will regret your decision. 

Dogs digestive system being more of acidic nature compared to humans and dogs can digest some foods, that even humans can't. Dog's stomach can easily dissolve raw meat and bones, which if tried by humans can cause severe problems.

What is chocolate poisoning ?

Chocolate poisoning or toxicity is a medical condition in which the dogs after having chocolate display a spectrum of complications ranging from mild to harsh. This toxicity is a gradual and slow poison and takes up to 12 hours to show up the initial symptoms, but sometimes dogs can exhibit affects in 1 to 3 hours. Therefore it should be taken into account that neglecting or delaying medical help or waiting for the ideal time, can go down to the wire and situation could worsen.

Chocolate toxicity affects

• Feeling lethargic and uneasy.

• Excessive Vomiting in short span.

• Chronic Diarrhea

• Heart beats at fast pace than usual

• Under critical condition, cases of tremors or seizures start to show up.

• In extreme cases prolonged coma even leading to death.

Best alternatives or safer option for dogs

Multiple safer option are available for dogs without the presence of poisonous compounds, an array of choices ranging from natural food to homemade treats. These edibles pack a good volume of enriched proteins, fibers, calcium and fats that are required for overall health. But these superfoods should be given in limited amount.

Carob

For instance carob obtained from carob tree naturally holds sugar. Carob contains fiber and calcium which can be used in different ways as a chocolate replacement, like in cookies, cakes, treats and always ensure with the ingredient listings.

Natural Fruits

• Blueberries and Strawberries

• Watermelon and Bananas

• Apples without seeds

Homemade easy treat recipes for a windmill wag.

• Banana and honey cookies.

• Sweet potato and carrot dog treats.

• Banana Peanut Butter and Oat Treats

• Chicken and rice dog meal

What steps to follow if dog ate chocolate?

•Instead of making the situation chaotic think wisely and respond instantly.

•Try to contact your nearest clinic or emergency vet clinic.

•Inform them about the dog's weight, type of chocolate such as milk, dark or white and approx. quantity eaten

• If possible find and keep the chocolate wrapper to know about the content.

•At the same time watch out for any symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting or their impatient state.

•Without medical instruction from the doctor, don't try to provoke vomiting by yourself.

•Doctors will probably advocate to administer activated charcoal or IV fluids to absorb the theobromine content and minimize the reactions.

Chocolaty FAQS

Q- Can I feed my dog chocolates on some occasions ?

No this is strictly not recommended, chocolate toxicity is something that can haunt them, this can be an unpleasant and unsafe experience, putting their life in danger. 

Q- What is dog chocolate and is it edible for humans ?

The chocolate treats that are prepared with the use of carob, due to its natural sweet property, without the presence of xylitol and theobromine and it poses no threats to humans so we can have it but it does not taste good.

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