Chocolate warning for dog owners

Pet owners are warned not to pamper their pooches

Dog owners are being urged to think twice before feeding their pets chocolate at Easter - as it could kill them.

The National Canine Defence League (NCDL) is warning owners chocolate contains a toxic chemical called theobromine.

It is harmless to humans but causes vomiting and convulsions in dogs, and can kill if eaten in sufficient quantities.

Dogs will go to great lengths to get chocolate

The charity warns that many dogs love chocolate and will go to extraordinary lengths to get some.

Theobromine is found in different quantities in different types of chocolate.

Dogs are most at risk from cocoa powder, dark chocolate and then milk chocolate.

The toxic dose is between 100-250mg of theobromine per kilo of the dog's weight, the NCDL warned.

That means 200g of dark chocolate could be fatal for a dog weighing 25kg, such as a female Labrador.

The charity is advising that any owners who suspect their dog has eaten chocolate should take them to their vets for urgent treatment.

Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drinking and convulsions.

Doggie chocs

The NCDL is advising dog owners to give their pets doggie chocolate drops as an Easter treat which are completely harmless.

Charity spokeswoman Deana Selby said: "Many dogs love chocolate and can jump very high to get at it.

"But also, we do hear of people feeding their dogs chocolate at Easter time so the dog doesn't feel left out.

"Dogs will beg for it unfortunately. And most people don't realise it can be very dangerous.

"But special doggie chocs are absolutely fine so we suggest if you want to give your dog a treat, get those."