Pet owners have been warned about the dangers of dogs eating chocolate this Easter.

According to canine experts, up to 50 per cent of hounds who eat this could die if they do not get treated on time.

Kennel Store, a company specialising in dog wellbeing, has now warned owners what to do if their pet swallows chocolate.

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They said: "Chocolate is extremely dangerous for dogs and consumption can cause severe illness, or in some cases death.

"It is toxic to dogs because it contains a chemical called theobromine, which they cannot metabolise in the same way humans can.

"There are some factors you have to consider when you discover your dog has consumed chocolate.

"These include what kind it was and how much was eaten.

"Once this has been gathered, contact your vet as soon as possible for advice, whether this is your standard practice or an out of hours service."

After eating chocolate, dogs can develop a range of symptoms including vomiting, panting, restlessness and an increased heart rate.

More severe symptoms include muscle tremors, seizures, and heart failure.