Did you know that the following are poisonous to dogs?

Chocolate
Chocolate (including drinking chocolate and other cocoa products) contains theobromine which is poisonous to dogs. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains. Continental type, bitter-tasting chocolate is the most dangerous. A single ounce, or 25g, of unsweetened chocolate can kill a 10lb/4.5kg dog. In the case of milk chocolate, the lethal dose is 11oz/350g for a dog of the same size. Theobromine overstimulates the heart and can lead to seizures and coma. Signs of overdose include restlessness, thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea, irregular heartbeat, excessive urination and muscle tremors. These symptoms rarely show up immediately but generally come on a few hours after the chocolate has been eaten. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate get him to the vet straight away
(Note: the special dog ‘chocolate’ sold by pet shops is not real chocolate)
Cocoa Mulch sold as a top dressing for garden borders and flower beds is the waste product from the extraction and manufacture of chocolate. Cocoa Mulch also contains high levels of theobromine and is poisonous to dogs if eaten.

Xylitol - artifical sweetener
Xylitol is used in chewing gum, sweets, cakes and other sugar free products. Xylitol causes dogs to produce insulin resulting in a sudden drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia), with symptoms of depression, loss of coordination, and seizures. These signs can develop quite rapidly, sometimes less than 30 minutes after eating the product. If possible, make the dog vomit and seek veterinary treatment immediately. There also appears to be a strong link between xylitol and liver failure in dogs.

Grapes
Grapes and all related products including:
- Raisins
- Sultanas
- Currants
- Fruit cake containing the above
Small amounts can be tolerated by larger dogs, but if you believe your dog may have eaten any of these in significant quantities, telephone your vet without delay. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent digestion of the fruit leading to kidney failure.

Antifreeze
Antifreeze, some screen wash additives and de-icers contain ethylene glycol, which is sweet tasting and attractive to dogs, but is fatal even in small quantities. Clear up any spills immediately and store products well away from animals.

Onions
Onions and similar vegetables have caused poisoning in dogs, although the exact mechanism is not clear.

Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are also reported to be poisonous to dogs, although again the exact reason is not known.