Why chocolate is toxic for dogs; vets urge caution during Halloween

The Brief

As Halloween approaches, veterinarians are warning dog owners about the potential hazards of chocolate.

Why is chocolate toxic for dogs?

Why you should care:

Veterinarians and health experts warn that dogs cannot metabolize chocolate in the same way that people can due to a substance in chocolate called theobromine.

According to Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine, caffeine and theobromine can cause stimulation of the central nervous system and heart. They also act as diuretics, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Dogs may also be at risk for developing gastrointestinal distress or even pancreatitis because many chocolate products are high in fat and sugar.

What they're saying:

"The substance in chocolate is actually a stimulant, and so it can affect the heart from