Cocoa Mulch and Dogs

by Sami Gray

Many pet owners know that chocolate can be fatally toxic to dogs, though degree of sensitivity varies among individual dogs.  The active ingredient in chocolate that is toxic to dogs (and cats) is theobromine, which is related to caffeine (also toxic to dogs). 

Garden centers have in recent years been selling mulch consisting of cocoa bean shells, which actually contain a higher percentage of theobromine than that contained in chocolate.  Dogs are attracted to the sweet, chocolaty smell and taste of the mulch, and may eat it.  Deaths have been reported.  Some brands of mulch now print warnings on their bags, but others do not.  As a former nursery employee, I can tell you that garden centers that sell this product are aware of the hazard, but often do not mention the problem to customers.