Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical which is toxic for dogs in large doses and can lead to restlessness, tremors and seizures in some instances.
Large dogs may tolerate more chocolate before it becomes toxic, so keep a close eye on your pup to ensure he or she remains safe.
If your dog has eaten too much chocolate, contact your veterinarian immediately. They may need to induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal in order to flush any harmful toxins out of its system and keep your pup safe from harm.
Contents
1. Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder can be found in some canine chocolate treats. Although small doses won’t do any harm to your dog, large doses could result in chocolate poisoning which causes symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and difficulty breathing.
Dogs suffering from chocolate poisoning require immediate veterinary assistance to flush out theobromine and caffeine from their system as well as treat any additional symptoms like dehydration that may arise as part of treatment for poisoning.
Carob powder is an ideal alternative to cocoa powder and offers the same sweet taste without theobromine or caffeine. Plus, it contains antioxidants, minerals and vitamins!
2. Carob Powder
Carob powder makes an excellent alternative to chocolate for use in dog treats, since its appearance and taste mimic those of chocolate while not containing caffeine or theobromine which are toxic ingredients that could harm dogs.
This carob powder has an irresistibly tasty crunch. Plus, it’s organic, kosher and vegan friendly for optimal pet health! Give your pup something extra tasty this week with some of this tasty carob powder!
Use this to craft delicious pet treats – including cookies! Additionally, carob bark can also be made using this ingredient.
Introducing your dogs to the fun of dipping treats with this easy, natural solution made of turmeric powder (yellow) or red beet juice (red). Plus, this healthy treat provides calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus – plus more!
3. Carob Chips
Carob chips are a tasty treat option that are safe for dogs that can be used as an alternative to chocolate. Carob shares similar flavors with chocolate but doesn’t contain toxic levels of theobromine and caffeine which could otherwise harm pets.
For optimal carob chips use, heat them in a double boiler in the same way you’d melt chocolate, stirring continuously while they melt. Once finished, remove from heat when finished; carob doesn’t reheat well so only melt small batches at a time.
These pupcakes combine carob powder and shredded coconut into an easy, nutritious and delectable treat for your furry friend! Perfectly sweet yet healthy – guaranteed to satisfy their appetite!
4. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a nutritious source of protein and fats for dogs as well as vitamins B and E and niacin. Plus, its long shelf life makes storage convenient; making this the ideal food supplement.
As it can be toxic for dogs, it’s essential that natural peanut butter be used. Be wary of any varieties that contain added sugars or sweeteners such as xylitol. Also look out for any fillers such as corn syrup. Or why not even make your own homemade version!
Combine all ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms, then roll out to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured counter and cut with cookie cutters into fun shapes. Bake for 25-30 minutes (time may differ depending on size of treats).
5. Oats
Oats are an excellent source of fiber and an ideal food option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, they contain high amounts of linoleic acid and vitamin B which can improve your pet’s coat and skin health.
Oatmeal provides a more nutritious and gluten-free snack option when used as an alternative to wheat flour in baked treats, or it can even be added into savory dishes such as oat risotto!
Mix all ingredients in a food processor until they form a dough-like substance, then sprinkle a light layer of flour (oat or regular) over your work surface and roll the dough out until it reaches around 1/4″ thickness. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut shapes out before baking as directed.
