5 Valentine's Day Dangers to Keep Your Dog Safe

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion for showing love, but it can also introduce hidden hazards for your dog. As you prepare to celebrate in 2025, being aware of these risks and taking precautions will help keep your canine companion safe and happy.

Here we explore five common dangers to dogs on Valentine’s Day and share practical advice to avoid them so your celebrations can be joyful and worry-free.

1. Chocolate and Filled Chocolates

Chocolate is a classic Valentine’s gift, but it contains theobromine, a chemical toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and chocolates with alcohol or nuts pose the highest risk. Accidental ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, rapid breathing, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

Always keep chocolate gifts securely out of reach and never offer chocolate to your dog. If gifting chocolates, ensure they are stored safely and disposed of properly to protect curious pets.

2. Alcohol and Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol is common during Valentine’s celebrations but extremely dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can lead to serious symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of coordination, breathing difficulty, and can result in coma or death.

Never allow your dog access to alcoholic drinks. Immediately clean any spills and avoid leaving unfinished drinks where pets can reach them.

3. Gift Wrap, Ribbons, and Balloons

Festive gift wrap and decorations might include ribbons, bows, tape, and balloons. Dogs may be tempted to chew or swallow these items, risking choking or dangerous intestinal blockages.

Clear all wrapping materials promptly and keep an eye on your dog during celebrations. Deflated or popped balloon fragments can also be hazardous.

4. Candles and Open Flames

Candles help create a romantic atmosphere but can be a fire hazard around inquisitive dogs. Pets may inadvertently knock over candles causing burns or house fires.

Always supervise lit candles, use sturdy holders, and extinguish all flames when leaving the room or when your dog is unsupervised. Consider pet-safe LED candles as an alternative.

5. Toxic Flowers and Thorny Roses

Valentine’s bouquets often include roses and other flowers. While roses themselves are not highly toxic, their sharp thorns can injure curious dogs.

Some flowers common in bouquets may be toxic if chewed, such as lilies, tulips, or freesias. Keep flowers well out of reach, and opt for pet-safe flower alternatives when possible.

Keeping Your Dog Safe on Valentine’s Day

To protect your dog during Valentine's Day festivities, store all dangerous items out of reach, supervise closely, promptly clean up wrapping and decorations, and opt for pet-safe treats and displays.

Training your dog with commands like “leave it” can help prevent accidental ingestion of harmful objects. Keep emergency contacts for your vet and animal poison helpline handy for peace of mind.

Remember, responsible pet ownership means sharing celebrations without compromising your dog’s health or happiness.