No, dogs should not eat "kisses," which commonly refers to chocolate candies like Hershey's Kisses.
While the reference information discusses the toxicity of chocolate, it is important to distinguish that the question refers to candies, such as Hershey's Kisses, and not actual human kisses. Let's break down why chocolate is harmful to dogs:
Why Chocolate is Bad for Dogs
-
Theobromine: Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolize efficiently. This leads to a buildup in their system, potentially causing toxicity.
-
Type of Chocolate: Different types of chocolate contain varying levels of theobromine. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are more toxic than milk chocolate.
- Milk Chocolate: The provided reference mentions that milk chocolate is "not that toxic to dogs compared to other forms." However, it emphasizes that consumption of more than 8 oz could be problematic.
- Dark Chocolate & Baking Chocolate: These are significantly more dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts, due to their high theobromine content.
-
Dog Size and Amount Consumed: The severity of the reaction will depend on the size of the dog and the amount of chocolate eaten. A large dog might tolerate a small amount of milk chocolate better than a small dog would.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Chocolate
-
Monitor: If your dog has eaten chocolate, keep a close eye on them for signs of chocolate toxicity.
-
Symptoms of Chocolate Toxicity: These can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Increased heart rate
- Seizures
-
Contact a Vet: If your dog has eaten a significant amount of chocolate or shows any signs of toxicity, contact your veterinarian immediately. Don't wait, as the condition can escalate quickly.
- The reference notes that if a dog has eaten less than 8ozs of milk chocolate and is of an appropriate size, you may not need to do anything but watch the dog for problems.
In Summary
While the reference notes that small quantities of milk chocolate are not that harmful, it is best to keep all chocolate and similar candies away from dogs. It is more prudent to avoid any risk of chocolate poisoning.
