Chocolate Toxicosis in Dogs

In dogs, chocolate ingestion is very common. The main toxic component in chocolate is theobromine, a methylxanthine, causing central nervous system (CNS) stimulation with cardiac and respiratory hyperactivity. Signs of toxicity generally occur within 2–4 hours of ingestion, but can sometimes occur after 6–12 hours including gastrointestinal effects, hyperactivity, tachycardia, tremors, hypertension and hyperthermia. Several molecular mechanisms are involved in the toxicosis of chocolate in dogs. Treatment involves decontamination, control of CNS stimulation and arrhythmias and supportive care.