Dogs and Chocolate

I’m not a chocolate fiend, but from time to time, I like to eat a couple of chocolate cookies. My beagle likes to eat whatever I’m eating and the more I won’t give him any, the more he wants. Everyone warns, “Don’t give the dog chocolate.”

My wife told me not to tonight. It’s driving me crazy. I know already.

But, why not? Does it kill them, make them sick, or just drive them crazy?

I’m asking, you see, so that I’ll never have to figure it out on my own. Who’s got an idea?

Cecil sez…
http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a5_211.html

Further ref: http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoa.htm

Not only chocolate, but several months ago I read an article in a dog fancier magazine that as little as 6-8 grapes or raisins can kill a dog. Some dogs can eat as many as they llike and not get ill but others will get very sick or die from a small number. How small depends on the weight of the dog. They didn’t know what the toxic mechanism was or why some dogs are sensitive and others aren’t. I don’t think I’d take chances with either food.