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Chocolates are a quintessential part of our Valentine's Day celebration… but what about our dogs?
Nothing says “I love you” like chocolate, but even a small bite can put them in trouble.
Fortunately, there are safe, sweet chocolate alternatives for dogs that let you both celebrate without worry!
In this guide, we'll discuss the best substitutes for chocolate for your dog's Valentine treats and safe recipes you can try.
RELATED: Can Dogs Eat Chocolate? Everything You Need to Know
Why Dogs Can’t Have Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, two stimulants that dogs can’t effectively process and absorb.
The more chocolate your dog ingests, the more theobromine and caffeine their bodies will have to hold, which can cause toxicity.
Signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Tremors or seizures
- Excessive thirst or urination
Milk, dark, and baking chocolate contain varying amounts of theobromine and caffeine. White chocolate, on the other hand, contains little to no cocoa solids and is still considered unhealthy for dogs.
| Type of Chocolate | Theobromine Content | Caffeine Content |
|---|---|---|
| White Chocolate | ~0.2 mg/oz | 0 mg |
| Milk Chocolate | ~57–64 mg/oz | ~2–9 mg/oz |
| Dark Chocolate | ~200-800 mg/oz (depending on cocoa concentration) | ~20-150 mg/oz |
| Unsweetened Baking Chocolate | ~364–450 mg/oz | ~20–40 mg/oz |
If your dog shows any signs of toxicity listed above, or if they ate even a small amount of chocolate without symptoms, the best course of action is to call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 right away.
RELATED: What to Do if Your Dog Eats Chocolate (Home Remedy)
Carob: The Safest Chocolate Alternative for Dogs
If you have been reading our blogs for some time, you'll know this is one of our favorite ingredients in our homemade dog treat recipes.
Carob is a type of legume that comes from the pods of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua). It is the only legume that grows on trees, and is native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East.
It looks, smells, and tastes similar to chocolate but contains no theobromine or caffeine. It's also popularly referred to as the “Poor Man's Chocolate.”
In fact, carob is naturally sweeter and nuttier than chocolate. It's also rich in fiber, calcium, and antioxidants, and won't trigger allergic or toxic reactions in humans or dogs when consumed in moderation.
However, it lacks the bitter, sharp notes and the richness of chocolate that are important, especially when used for baking.
If you have this growing in your backyard, DO NOT use the green or young pods. Only the ripe brown ones are sweet and edible.
Green carob seeds contain high levels of tannins, which make them astringent, extremely unpalatable, and may cause digestive issues.
If you have a carob tree in your backyard, you can harvest, roast, and then grind the seeds just like you would a coffee bean. This will turn it into a powder that you can use for baking or cooking.
If you don't, carob powder or paste is still widely available in grocery stores, including health-focused stores like Whole Foods Market, and on Amazon.
Carob-Based Homemade Dog Treat Ideas
If you're looking for ideas on how to treat your dog with “chocolates” on Valentine's Day or any other special occasion, you can check out our tried-and-tested recipes linked below!
- Recipe: Easy Carob Dog Biscuits
- Recipe: Peanut Butter and Carob Dog Treats
- Recipe: Carob Cookies for Dogs
- Recipe: Carob Crunchies Dog Treats (Wheat and Gluten Free)
5 Other Best Chocolate Alternatives for Dogs
1. Peanut Butter (Unsalted & Xylitol-Free)
Peanut butter has always been a favorite for most dogs. They are creamy, protein-rich, and easy to incorporate into homemade dog food or treats.
Check out these recipes that contain peanut butter:
- Recipe: Peanut Butter and Parsley Dog Treats
- Recipe: Peanut Butter Zucchini Dog Treats
- Recipe: Peanut Butter and Cornmeal Dog Biscuits
Just make sure that whatever brand of peanut butter you use is unsalted and xylitol-free.
While small amounts of salt are safe and may be beneficial for dogs, xylitol is not recommended at all. Even just the tiniest amount of xylitol can be toxic and deadly to dogs.
RELATED: Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?
2. Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin is another safe and healthy chocolate alternative for dogs. You can use pumpkin puree not only for treats, but also for homemade dog food!
This vegetable is high in fiber and vitamins A, C, and E, low in calories, and supports digestion, immune function, healthy skin and coat, and good vision.
Here are some of our favorite pumpkin treats recipe for dogs:
- Recipe: Pumpkin Dog Treats
- Recipe: Easy Dog Biscuit Recipe with Pumpkin
- Recipe: Pumpkin Rosemary Dog Treats
The best pumpkin puree is the one you make at home using a fresh pumpkin. All you have to do is roast or boil it, puree it in a food processor or blender, and voila!
Of course, canned ones are more convenient and easier to get. If you're buying from grocery stores, make sure the can specifically says 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin filling.
Pumpkin fillings intended for pumpkin pies often contain additives and sweeteners that are harmful to dogs.
RELATED: Pumpkin for Dogs 101: A Healthy Snack With No Side Effects
3. Yogurt (Plain, Unsweetened)
If you're making a cooling, creamy dessert for your dog, much like an ice cream, plain, unsweetened yogurt is your best bet.
Yogurt is not only versatile but also beneficial for dogs. It can help improve their digestion with probiotics, support stronger bones with calcium, provide muscle support from protein, and enhance immunity.
Greek yogurt is better because it also offers higher protein and lower lactose.
You can make these yogurt recipes to treat your dog this Valentine's:
Please avoid using flavored or artificially sweetened yogurts. Some brands may even contain xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.
RELATED: Homemade Probiotics For Dogs: Good for Their Gut Health
4. Apples & Berries
Of course, fruits are among the best chocolate alternatives for dogs and humans, but you must ensure they are safe for dogs.
Apples and blueberries, in particular, make healthy, naturally sweet snacks for dogs.
You can feed them as is or incorporate them in baked or frozen treats, like some of our recipes below:
- Recipe: Apple and Carrot Limited Ingredient Dog Treats
- Recipe: Apple Pupcake Dog Treats
- Recipe: Bully Stick Doggy Pupsicles with Blueberries & Apples
When giving apples to dogs, remove the seeds because they contain small amounts of amygdalin, which releases cyanide when digested.
RELATED: 6 Fruits Dogs Can Eat and Probably Should (According to Studies)
5. Coconut
Coconut has many byproducts that are beneficial to dogs when used correctly and in moderation. It can improve the skin/coat and boost immunity, thanks to its healthy fat content.
If you have access to fresh coconuts, giving your dog the meat and water can also improve their digestion and provide them with energy. If not, packaged coconut meat and water are suitable substitutes.
Even coconut byproducts can be considered good chocolate alternatives for dogs, such as the oil and flour, when used in baked treats, like in our recipes below:
- Recipe: Coconut and Cranberry Dog Treats
- Recipe: Grain-Free Dog Treats with Coconut Flour
- Recipe: Grain-Free Pumpkin Coconut Dog Treats
However, coconut should be consumed in moderation, as it can cause weight gain or stomach upset in dogs.
RELATED: Can Dogs Eat Coconut? 5 Health Benefits for Your Pooch
FAQs About Chocolate Alternatives for Dogs
Can I give my dog treats that taste like chocolate?
Yes, as long as the treat doesn’t contain real chocolate or toxic ingredients like theobromine or caffeine.
Dog-safe alternatives such as carob offer a similar flavor and are often used in commercially produced dog treats.
Always check the ingredient label before offering flavored treats.
How much carob can a dog safely eat?
Carob is generally safe for dogs in moderation and doesn’t contain theobromine, the compound found in chocolate that is harmful to dogs.
A few small carob chips or a carob-based treat is fine for most dogs. Too much can lead to stomach upset due to its natural sugars and fiber, so portion control is key.
Which ingredients should I avoid when choosing dog-friendly chocolate alternatives?
Avoid any product that contains caffeine, theobromine, xylitol (a sugar substitute), artificial sweeteners, or high-fat content.
Even dog-friendly treats should be free from additives, spices, and dairy if your dog is sensitive.
Best & Safe Chocolate Alternatives for Dogs: Before You Go…
Your dog doesn’t need real chocolate to feel the love this Valentine’s Day. With safe chocolate alternatives like carob, peanut butter, and pumpkin, you can treat them to something sweet and healthy!
Whatever treat you make to celebrate this day with your dog, make sure to give it in moderation. After all, treats should only make up 10% of your dog's recommended daily caloric intake.
Would you like more ideas for spending Valentine's Day with your dogs in a fun and safe way? Check out our recommended articles below!
