Ask Evolve: ‘Is Chocolate Bad For My Dog?’

Should you take extra precautions around Valentine’s Day to keep your dog safe? Is chocolate really bad for your dog? Does hugging my dog cause them to be stressed? Your Valentine’s Day questions are answered here!

Should i take extra precautions around valentine’s day to keep my dog safe?

While dogs vary household to household, it really depends on your pup’s curiosity levels and what all you’re doing for Valentine’s Day. Unlike Easter and the hidden eggs, most Valentine’s presents are easier to keep out of your pup’s reach. It’s also good to keep in mind that many flowers are poisonous to both dogs and cats, so be careful leaving these around curious pets.

Is Chocolate Bad For My Dog? Why?

Chocolate can be incredibly toxic to dogs. Two components of chocolate, theobromine and caffeine, are very difficult for dogs to digest. A buildup of theobromine and caffeine can prove to be fatal to your dog. If your dog eats chocolate, determine how much they ate, and call your vet. Depending on their size, what type of chocolate they ate, and how much they ate, it could just cause nausea or diarrhea. However, consult with a veterinarian first, just to be safe.

I Love To Hug My Dog, But I Read That Causes Stress. Is That True?

In an online survey of pictures in which humans were hugging dogs, psychologist Dr. Stanley Coren observed signs of stress or anxiety in 81.6% of the dogs photographed. Not all stress or anxiety observed is life threatening to dogs, but it’s worth considering the long term effects on our pets. When we hug dogs they can feel trapped, which is against their natural instincts. Again, this varies pup to pup, but, perhaps consider showing your affection to them in another way. Maybe an extra Evolve treat instead?