Dangers of Feeding Dogs Xocolatl and Safe Alternatives

by Dani Graymore. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Dec 22, 2024

Dangers of Feeding Dogs Xocolatl and Safe Alternatives

Introduction

Xocolatl, also known as Mesoamerican chocolate, has been a staple food in Mexican cuisine for centuries. Its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits have made it a popular ingredient among humans. However, before introducing Xocolatl to our furry friends, it's essential to consider pet safety carefully.

When introducing new foods to our pets, we must be aware of the potential risks associated with it. While Xocolatl may seem like a harmless treat for dogs, its consumption can have serious consequences. In this article, we will discuss the potential health risks associated with feeding Xocolatl to dogs and provide guidance on safe storage, handling, and serving practices.

The Case for Concerns

Xocolatl is made from cacao beans, which contain compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine. While small amounts of these substances are not toxic to humans, they can be highly toxic to dogs. Consuming Xocolatl can lead to a range of adverse reactions, including vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, restlessness, and in severe cases, seizures or even death.

Research has shown that dogs can suffer from theobromine intoxication when consuming cocoa products like Xocolatl (1). The severity of the reaction depends on the amount and quality of Xocolatl consumed. Symptoms can appear within 30 minutes to several hours after consumption.

In addition to theobromine, Xocolatl also contains other compounds that can affect dogs' health. For example, some types of chocolate may contain high levels of caffeine, which is just as toxic to dogs (2). Furthermore, the processing and roasting of cacao beans for Xocolatl production may increase the levels of toxins present.

The Case for Reassurance

While it's true that Xocolatl contains substances that can be harmful to dogs, most pet owners are aware of these risks. To minimize potential harm, it's essential to exercise caution when introducing new foods to your dog. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Store Xocolatl safely: Make sure the store or packaging clearly labels Xocolatl products with visible warnings about dog toxicity.
Handle and serve responsibly: If you must consume Xocolatl around your dog, take extra precautions to prevent cross-contamination or accidental sharing of treats.
Choose pet-friendly snacks instead: Consider substituting Xocolatl with healthier alternatives like carrots, green beans, apples, or training treats specifically designed for dogs.

Pet-Specific Factors

Different characteristics between pets can affect their ability to tolerate certain foods. Here are some factors that might influence which types of treats may be safe for your furry friend:

Age: Juvenile pets (e.g., kittens vs adult cats), like puppies or young adult canines, might be more sensitive to toxins in chocolate.
Breed or genetic predisposition:
- Certain breeds, such as Labradors and German Shepherds, may have a higher sensitivity to allergy-prone foods due to their breed characteristics
- Breeds prone to obesity should choose low-calorie treats for pet-specific factors that affect tolerance in dogs.
Medical conditions or allergies: If your furry companion suffers a pre-existing medical condition like diabetes, food intolerance like sensitivity toward food types commonly found within Xocolatl.

Conclusion

Xocolatl has been used as a treat for dogs in its raw state. Dogs do suffer from toxic reactions if given too much of that type of chocolate. The severity of the reaction will depend on how much is given to a dog, and what type of cocoa it was mixed with. The reaction should wear off once treated for poisoning. It will take several hours after eating chocolate in high amounts.

Q&A

Q: Can I Use This Product For Traning?

A: Yes you can use these product but train the pet first so that it wont have an adverse reaction.

Q: How Should I Store Leftovers.

A

They should be stored by your dog to prevent them from eating Xocolatl. Do not let them see you consuming xocolatl around them as they believe that is for sharing.