Keeping your Cavalier safe this Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is all about love — and if you share your life with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, you already know they are experts in devotion. But while this special day often feels calm and romantic compared to Halloween or Christmas, it quietly introduces several serious hazards into your home: chocolate gift boxes, flower deliveries, candles, rich dinners, and even overnight getaways.
This blog take a practical look athow to protect your Cavalier while still enjoying the romance of Valentine’s Day.
Chocolate: The Most Common Valentine’s Emergency
Valentine’s Day generates more boxed chocolate than almost any other time of year.
For a small, food-motivated Cavalier, a heart-shaped box left on a coffee table is irresistible.
Why chocolate is dangerous
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine — substances dogs cannot metabolise efficiently.
Dark chocolate and gourmet varieties are especially potent.
Symptoms may include:
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Restlessness
Elevated heart rate
Tremors
Seizures
Because Cavaliers are a toy breed, even small quantities can trigger toxicity.
How to prevent access:
Never leave gift boxes unattended
Store chocolates in sealed cupboards
Dispose of wrappers immediately
Remind guests not to share “just a tiny piece”
2. Strawberries, Cream & Romantic Desserts
Chocolate-dipped strawberries, mousse, tiramisu and liqueur-infused treats are common Valentine’s indulgences.
The risks include:
Chocolate coatings
Artificial sweeteners (xylitol)
Alcohol content
High fat levels
Even if ingredients aren’t directly toxic, rich desserts can cause gastrointestinal upset or pancreatitis — which Cavaliers can be predisposed to.
If you want to include your dog in the celebration, prepare a safe alternative treat specifically made for dogs.
3. Roses & Floral Arrangements
Valentine’s flowers are beautiful — but they bring hidden risks.
Roses
Roses themselves are not toxic, but:
Thorns can injure mouths or paws
Fallen petals may be chewed
Flower food sachets can be harmful
Keep arrangements elevated and sweep up fallen plant matter promptly.
Lilies & Mixed Bouquets
Some bouquets include lilies or other plants that can cause stomach upset.
Even water from the vase can contain preservatives or bacteria that may cause vomiting if lapped up.
Place vases well out of reach — Cavaliers are surprisingly persistent when curious.
4. Candles & Mood Lighting
Romantic evenings often mean:
Scented candles
Low lighting
Essential oil diffusers
Candle risks:
Long feathered ears brushing flames
Tails knocking over holders
Burns or house fires
LED candles are a far safer alternative.
Essential Oils
Some concentrated oils may irritate dogs’ respiratory systems.
Cavaliers, with their moderate-length muzzles and sensitive nature, may react to strong scents with:
Sneezing
Lethargy
Eye irritation
Use oils sparingly and ensure good ventilation.
5. Valentine’s Dinner Hazards
If you’re cooking a special meal, be aware of common toxic ingredients:
Garlic
Onion
Shallots
Chives
Alcohol-based sauces
Even small amounts of onion or garlic can damage red blood cells in dogs.
Fatty steak trimmings, creamy sauces and buttery sides may lead to:
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Pancreatitis
Keep scraps off the floor and secure rubbish bins.
6. Date Night: Leaving Your Cavalier Home Alone
Valentine’s often means going out. Cavaliers are highly bonded dogs and can experience separation anxiety.
Before leaving:
Ensure they’ve had exercise
Provide enrichment (safe chew or puzzle toy)
Keep the home environment calm
Avoid leaving edible gifts within reach
If staying overnight, confirm care arrangements are secure and that caregivers know emergency contacts.
7. Gift Wrapping & Small Decorative Items
Ribbons, bows, cellophane and confetti may look harmless but can cause:
Choking
Intestinal obstruction
Emergency surgery
Dispose of packaging immediately after opening gifts.
What To Do If Your Cavalier Eats Something Dangerous
If your dog consumes chocolate, xylitol, fatty food, plant material or packaging:
Do not wait for symptoms.
Contact immediately:
Animal Poisons Helpline
1300 869 738 (24/7 veterinary toxicology specialists)
Seek urgent veterinary care if you notice:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Tremors
Pale gums
Collapse
Seizures
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
A Valentine’s Plan for Cavalier Owners
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to exclude your dog — it just needs mindful planning.
A safer celebration might include:
A long walk together earlier in the day
A dog-safe treat prepared in advance
Quiet cuddle time
A simple heart-themed bandana instead of risky accessories
Your Cavalier doesn’t care about roses or champagne. They care about being near you. And truly, there is no greater Valentine than a loyal Cavalier King Charles Spaniel — gentle, affectionate, and devoted every day of the year. With a little foresight, your celebration can be filled with love, laughter and complete peace of mind.
