Merck warns that deaths have been reported with theobromine doses as low as 115 milligrams per kilogram (2.2 pounds) of body weight. So 20 ounces of milk chocolate, 10 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate, and just 2.25 ounces of baking chocolate could potentially kill a 22-pound dog, Fitzgerald says.
How much chocolate does it take to be lethal to a dog?
Cardiac symptoms of chocolate toxicity occur around 40 to 50 mg/kg, and seizures occur at dosages greater than 60 mg/kg. In simpler terms, that means a very concerning dose of chocolate is approximately one ounce of milk chocolate per pound of body weight.
Will chocolate kill a dog immediately?
Dog owners often ask how much chocolate can kill a dog. While there is no right or wrong answer to this, we know dogs show symptoms of poisoning when they eat 20mg of theobromine (the toxic chemical in chocolate) for every kilogram they weigh. These symptoms become severe at 40 to 50mg per kg.
Will 2 pieces of chocolate kill a dog?
Theobromine and caffeine are two substances responsible for this deadly effect; it is generally believed that a combined dose of less than 15.01 mg/kg (7.5 mg/lb) shouldn't harm your dog. This dose is equivalent to: 1 piece of dark-sweet chocolate for a 3 kg (6 lb) dog.
Can a dog survive eating chocolate?
Chocolate is poisonous to dogs mostly because of its theobromine content, which dogs are unable to metabolize effectively. If your dog eats chocolate, you should monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if they show any symptoms, or if they are very young, pregnant or have other health concerns.
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