Carob for Dogs: A Chocolate-Like Treat That’s Safe and Sweet!

We all know that chocolate is a big no-no for dogs, but that doesn’t mean your pup has to miss out on sweet treats altogether! Say hello to carob: a natural, dog-safe alternative that’s commonly used in pet snacks, baked goods, and even some complete dog food formulas.

But what exactly is carob, and why is it safe for dogs to eat? Let’s dig in!

What is Carob?

Carob comes from the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua), a Mediterranean plant that produces long brown pods. These pods are dried, roasted, and ground into a powder that resembles and has a similar aroma to cocoa.

While humans may notice a slight difference in flavour (carob is milder and naturally sweeter), most dogs love it, and that’s what really matters!

Why Is Carob Used as a Chocolate Substitute for Dogs?

Unlike real chocolate, carob contains zero theobromine and no caffeine, the two stimulants in cocoa that are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of chocolate can cause vomiting, tremors, or serious health risks for our furry friends.

Carob, on the other paw, is 100% safe for dogs, making it the go-to ingredient for chocolate-style dog treats. Just be sure that you offer your dog pure carob and steer clear of artificial sweeteners such as Xylitol, which are toxic to dogs.

Nutritional Benefits of Carob for Dogs

Carob isn’t just a safe stand-in for chocolate—it also brings a healthy punch of nutrients to the bowl:

The Pros

• Naturally sweet: Dogs love the flavour without the need for added sugar. Like all high-carbohydrate foods, carob is best enjoyed as a “sometimes” treat.

• Rich in fibre: Carob’s high fibre content supports digestion and a healthy gut microbiome.

• Packed with minerals: Contains calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron to support bone, heart, and immune health.

• Vitamin boost: Includes vitamins A, B2, B3, and D, which help with vision, energy, skin health, and immunity.

• Low in fat and calories: A smart option for dogs with weight concerns.

The Cons

• Beware of artificial sweeteners: Some store-bought human carob treats may contain sweeteners like Xylitol, which are toxic to pets. Use only pure carob powder or carob flour without any additives.

• Natural sugar content: Carob still contains a high percentage of naturally occurring sugars, so it should be consumed in moderation. Remember that treats should not make up more than 10% of a dog’s caloric intake. Chat to your veterinarian if your dog is diabetic or requires a low-carb diet.

• Rare sensitivities: Some dogs may be unusually sensitive to legumes (carob is part of the legume family), so monitor for reactions if introducing carob for the first few times.

• Impact on protein digestion: According to a study by Beynen, A.C. (Carob for Dogs), carob contains tannins, a type of polyphenol. These tannins can bind to dietary proteins in the intestinal tract, making them resistant to enzymatic digestion. The result? Reduced net protein digestion, meaning your dog may not fully absorb some of the protein from their meal if carob is included in large amounts. While this isn’t a major concern for healthy dogs enjoying small amounts of carob as a treat, it’s still worth noting.

Carob in Dog Food Formulas

While carob is more commonly found in dog treats and biscuits, it’s also used in specialty dog food formulations for both its flavour and functional benefits:

• Palatability booster: The sweet aroma and taste can make dry kibble or supplements more appealing to picky eaters.

• Natural thickener: Carob gum (from the seed of the pod, also known as locust bean gum) is often used as a natural stabiliser or thickener in wet dog food and dental chews.

• Digestive support: Thanks to its fibre content, carob can promote healthy digestion and firmer stools in some formulas by aiding the gut microbiome.

It’s rarely used as a primary ingredient but is sometimes included as a natural additive or flavour enhancer, particularly in functional treats or gourmet-style dog foods.

Final Treat Thoughts

Carob is a fantastic way to let your dog enjoy the chocolatey experience, without any of the risk. Whether it’s in a homemade pupcake, a carob-dipped treat, or even as a minor ingredient in a premium dog food formula, it offers a sweet (and safe) surprise your pup will love.

Just remember: moderation is key. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s caloric intake., Always check labels to ensure carob is used responsibly alongside dog-safe ingredients, with no xylitol.

Want to try making your own carob treats at home? Or curious which treats and dog foods feature carob? Let us know—we’re happy to fetch some recommendations!

References: 

• https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/carob

• Basharat, Z., Afzaal, M., Saeed, F., Islam, F., Hussain, M., Ikram, A., ... & Awuchi, C. G. (2023). Nutritional and functional profile of carob bean (Ceratonia siliqua): A comprehensive review. International Journal of Food Properties, 26(1), 389-413.

• Beynen, A. C. Carob for dogs.