5 Things You Shouldn't Do to Show Your Dog Love on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is approaching, a perfect time to celebrate those we love—including our canine companions. Many dog owners want to express their affection but may unintentionally do things that stress or harm their dogs. Showing love responsibly ensures your dog feels safe and cherished.

This article explores five things you shouldn’t do to show your dog love on Valentine’s Day, with expert-backed UK advice for 2025.

1. Don’t Give Your Dog Chocolate

It may be obvious to experienced dog owners, but it’s crucial to stress: chocolate is toxic to dogs. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, compounds dogs metabolise slowly, leading to poisoning. Even small amounts can cause symptoms like vomiting, rapid breathing, seizures, or worse.

Darker chocolates, such as baking or dark chocolate, have higher toxin levels and are especially dangerous. Additionally, some sugar-free chocolates contain xylitol, a sweetener extremely poisonous to dogs.

If your dog accidentally eats chocolate, contact your vet immediately. Never give your dog chocolate as a treat; instead, choose dog-safe treats. Make sure all chocolates you receive are stored securely out of your dog’s reach.

2. Don’t Hug Your Dog Like a Human

Hugging is a natural way for humans to show affection, but dogs see it differently. Wrapping your arms around your dog restricts their movement, which many can interpret as threatening or confining.

Dogs communicate primarily through body language and prefer to have control over their personal space. Being hugged can cause anxiety or discomfort, especially in shy or nervous dogs. Even confident dogs might be confused by this unfamiliar gesture.

Instead, express your affection by gentle petting and verbal praise, paying attention to your dog’s comfort signals.

3. Don’t Give Them a Steak Dinner

A steak might seem like a decadent treat to share, but it can be too rich and fatty for dogs. Feeding steak regularly or in large amounts can lead to digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis—a painful inflammation of the pancreas.

Cooking steak for your dog requires care: raw or undercooked meat risks bacterial infection, and cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or injury. The use of seasonings, onions, or garlic is harmful and must be avoided.

A better alternative is providing lean, plain meat treats specifically designed for dogs, given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

4. Don’t Dress Your Dog Up

While dressing pets in costumes is popular on social media and during festivities, many dogs find wearing clothes or costumes stressful. Clothing can feel restrictive and may cause anxiety due to unfamiliar sensations or limited movement.

Signs your dog is uncomfortable include stiff posture, attempting to remove the garment, or changes in behaviour. If you must dress your dog, choose comfortable, well-fitting items and introduce them gradually, rewarding calm behaviour.

Priorities your dog's comfort and wellbeing over appearances to truly show your love.

5. Don’t Let Them Break the Rules

It might be tempting to relax the usual boundaries on special days, such as allowing your dog on the sofa or bed when normally not permitted. However, inconsistency in rules confuses dogs and may create stress or behavioural issues.

Dogs thrive on routine and clear boundaries, which help them feel secure and understand expectations. If you want to change routines, do so gradually and permanently rather than as a one-off.

Maintain positive reinforcement training to encourage good behaviour consistently, creating a happy environment for your dog.

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful occasion to celebrate your dog’s place in your life, but it’s vital to do so with their needs and wellbeing in mind. Avoid these five common missteps to keep your dog safe, stress-free, and truly loved!

For more on this theme, see Five Ways To Show Your Dog You Love Them This Valentine’s Day.