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Hide the chocolate! Whether you have a "Marley" tempered dog or a sweet lassie or laddie, chocolate is a no-no for dogs. That stolen piece of chocolate is poison for dogs, causing death if ingested in large amounts.

Don't think an occasional piece of chocolate is okay. Chocolate contains a substance called "theobromine" which is the source of a dog's problem. Theobromine is a xanthine compound similar to caffeine. In sufficient quantities, 100-150 mg, theobromine will cause a toxic reaction.

Interestingly the levels of theobromine vary between types of chocolate. On average, milk chocolate has the least amount (44mg/oz.), with semi-sweet chocolate (150mg/oz.) containing the next largest amount, followed by the most potent, baker's chocolate (390 mg/oz.).

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning begin with vomiting, diarrhea, and restlessness, leading to an increased heart rate, increased urination, excitability, irritability, then seizures, and possible death in severe cases.

The severity of your dog's reaction depends on how much and what kind of chocolate has been eaten, and the size and weight of your dog. If you're unsure how much chocolate might be toxic for your pampered pet, think Chloe the Beverly Hills Chihuahua eating one ounce of baking chocolate. This dosage could be lethal for a small dog.

Always contact your vet if you suspect your precious pooch ate chocolate. If your dog is having seizures, is unconscious, or having difficulty breathing, take your pet to your veterinarian immediately. Place vomited material in a plastic bag for analysis at your animal clinic.

The National Animal Poison Information Center at The University of Illinois in Urbana <http://www.napcc.aspca.org> provides computer-supported, around the clock telephone consultations (888-426-4435) for suspected poisonings for a $60 fee.

Here are some helpful tips to safeguard your dog:

*store chocolate in a child resistant closed container out of reach of your dog in a closed cabinet

*avoid leaving chocolate candy in decorative dishes around the room

*be vigilant around the holidays to keep your dog from eating chocolate goodies

*don't place wrapped boxes of chocolate candy or food items under the Christmas tree

*contain your dog in his crate during parties where chocolate might be served

*store garbage where your dog can't get access

*avoid using cocoa mulch in your garden

Ignore wistful stares and begging, thinking one small piece won't hurt. Dogs can easily become chocoholics once they've tasted chocolate! Remember prevention is the key to keeping your dog healthy.

Learn more about this author, Linda G. Hull.
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