Chocolate is a tasty human snack, and we can never get enough of it
But can Frenchies eat chocolate?
You may have asked yourself this question as you enjoy your chocolate while your dog watches you with an unspoken request.
Walk with me to learn more about Frenchies and chocolate.
Can Frenchies eat chocolate?
No, Frenchies cannot eat chocolate as it contains theobromine and caffeine.
Theobromine is highly toxic to dogs.
Dogs cannot easily breakdown theobromine which then negatively affects the heart and muscles
Chocolate Nutritional Facts
Chocolate contains soluble fiber which, promotes proper digestion, thus ensuring regular bowel movement.
It is an excellent source of minerals like iron and magnesium necessary for hemoglobin production and lowering blood pressure levels.
Chocolate has antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, which protect against cancer-causing radicals and promote proper blood flow.
Why is Chocolate bad for dogs?
Theobromine effect
Chocolate contains a toxic chemical called theobromine, which can have fatal effects on canines though safe for humans.
This is because dogs cannot fully break down theobromine hence becoming more prone to its deadly effects.
Darker and bitter chocolates contain more significant amounts of theobromine than any other type of chocolate.
Milk chocolates have less theobromine; therefore, they have lower toxicity levels.
Symptoms of theobromine toxicity include excessive urination and elevated heart rate.
A large intake of theobromine can result in more severe symptoms like seizures and heart attacks.
Fats and sugar
Chocolate has lots of fats and sugar, which are harmful to your fur baby.
High sugar consumption is a recipe for diabetes, inflamed arteries, and high blood pressure, while intake of fats in large amounts leads to canine obesity, heart problems, and pancreatitis.
The long-term effects of these conditions can be fatal as they can cause death.
What happens if a Frenchie eats chocolate?
The effects of chocolate in dogs depend on the type and amount of chocolate ingested.
You will notice symptoms of theobromine toxicity in your dog after several hours or days as theobromine stays longer in the bloodstream.
The immediate symptoms to look out for include:
- Excessive thirst
- Lethargy
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Increased urination
- Elevated heart rate
- Anxiety
Other severe symptoms can be observed after a few days and include:
- Seizures
- Heart failure
- Muscle tremors
- Internal bleeding
What should I do if my Frenchies eat chocolate?
If your Frenchie eats chocolate, rush him immediately to the vet, especially if he ingested dark chocolate or swallowed in large amounts.
The toxic effects of chocolate can be fatal hence the need for a vet examination.
The vet might induce vomiting to flush out the toxins or administer intravenous fluids.
Which Chocolate Recipes and Types Can be Eaten Safely by Dogs?
1. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is an excellent source of polyphenols that protect the body from harmful radicals that cause diseases like cancer.
You should, however, avoid them in dogs as they contain lots of theobromine
2. Chocolate Cake
Chocolate cake aids in the regulation of cholesterol levels, thus lowering the risks of cardiovascular problems.
But when it comes to dogs, chocolate cake is harmful as it contains cocoa which has lots of theobromine
3. Chocolate Chips
One or two bites of chocolate will not harm your dog.
Chocolate chips increase lipoprotein cholesterol levels, which lowers the probability of unhealthy weight gain and heart disease.
4. Chocolate Pie
Chocolate pie can lower the risks of heart problems as it contains flavanols.
You can give milder chocolate pies to dogs in minimal quantities as large portions can cause adverse reactions like continuous diarrhea and vomiting
5. White Chocolate
White chocolate contains less theobromine; hence their toxicity levels are lower.
You should, however, give white chocolate in moderation as they contain lots of fat which causes pancreatitis and unhealthy weight gain
6. Chocolate Cookies
Chocolate cookies are an excellent source of carbohydrates that aid in energy production and promote physical functions.
Although the cookie may contain theobromine, one to two bites are not harmful to dogs.
You should, however, not give it frequently as this can lead to adverse reactions like stomach upsets
7. Chocolate Pudding
Chocolate pudding is rich in calcium, essential for strong teeth and bones.
Calcium also aids in the transmission of nerve impulses.
Dogs weighing 30 pounds and above can eat chocolate pudding safely.
But you should give sparingly as chocolate pudding has lots of fats
8. Chocolate Ice Cream
Chocolate ice cream is a refreshing summer treat and promotes dental health.
However, this treatment may not be a regular treat for your dog as it contains theobromine and high fats and sugar levels.
Moreover, some dogs are lactose-intolerant and may react negatively to it
How to calculate chocolate toxicity in dogs?
Levels of toxicity mainly depend on the type of chocolate, the amount ingested, and the size of your dog.
The following is a guide on how to calculate chocolate toxicity in dogs.
Theobromine levels = (type of chocolate * Amount ingested) / The dog’s weight
Caffeine levels= ( Type of chocolate* Amount ingested) / The dog’s weight
Total toxicity levels= Theobromine levels + Caffeine levels
Where
Theobromine and caffeine levels are stated in ounces.
Chocolate type refers to amounts of theobromine and caffeine per ounce of a given chocolate brand.
The amount ingested is given in ounces.
Dog’s weight is in pounds.
Alternative of Chocolate to Frenchies
Fruits
They are healthy alternatives to chocolate
Fruits with dark pigment like strawberries, blueberries, and cherries are more nutritious. They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which promote immunity and lower the risks of heart disease.
Furthermore, these fruits contain lots of fiber essential for proper digestion, which translates to reduced stomach upsets and gastrointestinal problems.
Organic honey
Organic honey contains natural sugars which are safe for dogs.
Honey has microbial and anti-fungal features which protect from inflammation, fights infections, and lower the probability of allergic reactions.
For maximum health benefits, give your adult dog small amounts of raw honey daily.
Peanut butter
Peanut butter has healthy fats and proteins, making dogs feel full quickly, thus reducing the risks of obesity and promoting heart health.
Plain peanut butter helps in the regulation of blood sugar levels, therefore protecting dogs from diabetes.
It also contains fiber for proper heart health.
Furthermore, peanut butter contains vitamin C and folate for proper eye health, protection from cancer, and red blood cells formation.
Carob
Also known as sugar pod, carob has the same characteristics as chocolate, but it is free from toxic theobromine and caffeine.
Carob is rich in fiber and pectin, which boosts the digestion process and flushes toxins from the body.
In addition, the carob contains magnesium, calcium, and iron necessary for muscle health, thick bones, and hemoglobin production.
Add carob powder to dog’s food and treats
Nuts
Nuts, which include peanuts, pecans, and cashews, are healthy for dogs.
If your dog has a chocolate craving, it can be a sign of nutrient deficiency.
Nuts contain lots of nutrients like magnesium and zinc; hence act as proper alternatives to chocolate.
Avoid macadamia and pistachios as they are harmful.
Read our article on Can Frenchies Eat Macadamia Nuts Safely? for more.
How much chocolate can a dog eat per day?
Dark chocolate contains lots of theobromine hence toxic for dogs.
However, one or two bites of white chocolate daily will not harm your Frenchie.
Consult the vet before giving chocolate
Can chocolate affect a dog’s mood?
Dark chocolate contains an amino acid, tryptophan which stimulates the brain to produce a chemical known as serotonin.
Serotonin creates a happy feeling, thus making dogs excited after consuming chocolate.
How much chocolate can kill a dog?
Dark chocolates have lots of theobromine; hence ingestion of amounts as low as 3.5g per kilogram of body weight can kill a dog.
For milder types, it will take 14g
What happens if a dog eats Kit Kat?
Kit kat contains chocolate which is toxic for dogs.
Consuming kit kat can lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
Dark chocolate calls for a quick response as it contains lots of theobromine.
Can a Frenchie eat Snickers?
Yes, a Frenchie can eat snickers as it has less saturated fats.
However, you should serve in moderation as too much can lead to stomach upsets like diarrhea and vomiting.
Should I make my dog throw up if he ate chocolate?
Yes, you can induce vomiting on an alert dog using hydrogen peroxide.
However, if your dog appears weak or sickly, do not force him to vomit.
Instead, call the vet.
Final Thoughts
So, can Frenchies eat chocolate?
Giving your small dog amounts of other types of chocolate apart from dark chocolate may not harm him.
However, you should have in mind that most chocolate types contain theobromine which is toxic to dogs.
Chocolate toxicity symptoms include diarrhea, lethargy, and vomiting.
Other severe symptoms are seizures, muscle tremors, and heart attacks.
Toxicity levels depend on the type of chocolate, amounts consumed, and the weight of your dog.
To be safe, it’s best to avoid chocolate as its harmful effects outweigh its benefits.