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Chocolate bar

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Chocolate bars are a popular sweet that many people like to snack on. They consist of chocolate and various ingredients such as nuts, caramel or cookies. But what is delicious for us can be deadly for dogs. In this article, you will find out why chocolate bars are dangerous for dogs and what you can do to protect your four-legged friend.

What is a chocolate bar?

Chocolate bars are a form of chocolate that is combined with various ingredients in a handy bar shape. The ingredients vary depending on the brand and flavor, but some typical examples are

  • Cookie caramel chocolate bar: the classic with two bars of crunchy cookie and smooth caramel covered in chocolate.
  • Caramel chocolate bar: It is said to have stopped some people from entering a monastery: The planet bar made of soft caramel, sweet candy cream and melt-in-the-mouth chocolate.
  • Peanut caramel chocolate bar: Now it's time to layer: A layer of chocolate, a layer of peanut cream, then sweet caramel and, to top it all off, another layer of chocolate.
  • Coconut chocolate bar: Stir together a piece of paradise. All you need is coconut flakes, condensed milk and chocolate to make this delicious treat yourself.

Why are chocolate bars dangerous for dogs?

Chocolate bars are dangerous for dogs because they contain theobromine. Theobromine is an alkaloid found in cocoa beans and is harmless to humans. For dogs, however, it is toxic and can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning.

Theobromine affects the nervous system and the cardiovascular system of dogs. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, convulsions, palpitations, respiratory distress and even death. Symptoms can vary depending on the amount and type of chocolate. The darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains.

The lethal dose of theobromine for dogs is around 100 to 200 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This means that even a small bar of dark chocolate can be fatal for a small dog. For a large dog, a whole bar of milk chocolate can be dangerous.

The ingredients in the chocolate bars can make the situation even worse. For example, nuts can lead to gastrointestinal problems or allergic reactions. Caramel can lead to dental problems or choking. Cookies or wheat flour can lead to intolerances or obesity.

What can you do to protect your dog?

To protect your dog from candy bar poisoning, you should take some precautions:

  • Keep candy bars out of your dog's reach. Preferably in a locked cupboard or tin.
  • Never give your dog chocolate bars as a treat or reward. There are many healthy alternatives that taste good and are good for your dog.
  • Make sure that your dog does not get chocolate bars from other people. Explain to your friends and family why candy bars are dangerous for dogs and ask them not to feed them to your dog.
  • If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate bars, you should see a vet immediately. The quicker treatment is given, the better the chances of a full recovery.

Chocolate bars are not a treat for dogs, but a danger. If you love your dog, you should not give him this treat, but offer him something else that is good for him. That way you can be sure that your dog stays healthy and happy.


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If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.

Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊

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