Chocolate contains theobromine which can be toxic to dogs causing stimulation of the brain, heart and respiratory system. The amount of theobromine in different chocolate product varies. Milk chocolates contain the least, plain chocolate about six times as much, cocoa powder more still and cocoa shell garden mulch the most.

In practical terms for a 10kg dog, for example, a Dachshund or a West Highland Terrier, the following accounts could prove fatal: two and a half large bar of milk chocolate, three quarters of a small bar of plain chocolate, one quarter of a 250g tin of cocoa powder or just four tablespoons of cocoa shell garden mulch. This means that if your dog comes to you smelling chocolate, observe it closely for the next four to twenty four hours. Should it show signs of vomiting, excessive thirst, excitability, salivation or look unsteady on its feet, seek veterinary help without delay. There is no specific antidote but supportive treatment can help.

In the main prevention is better than cure. If you must give chocolate to your dog, use milk and not plain chocolate. Better still give especially formulated doggy choc drops, which don’t actually contain any chocolate.

Dog owners should use garden composts which don’t contain cocoa shell mulch and should keep all products containing chocolate seriously shut away.