Image: Nicole Weber

By Mike Vanden Bosch

New dog food product

Chilliwack resident creates unique dog food product

May 21, 2025 | 9:29 AM

CHILLIWACK — A Chilliwack resident has invented a unique product for man’s best friend that she hopes to bring to the broader pet food market.

Nicole Weber, an avid dog lover who describes herself as a self-starter and an innovator, has created something called Choco-Pup, a product made from carob powder intended to be a natural substitute to chocolate, providing fiber, nutrients and several antioxidants.

“Selling these products came to mind when we were out having a campfire, and I had hot chocolate, but our dog couldn’t have any,” Weber said, since consumption of chocolate or cocoa products is harmful to dogs. “There is nothing in the industry like this yet, and I’ve always wanted to create something unique that wasn’t already out there. When our dog couldn’t have the hot chocolate, I created a carob version that’s safe and healthy for dogs as there are many benefits to carob for dogs.”

Weber knows the pet food product itself inside and out because she’s involved in multiple steps of production.

“I invented it myself,” she said. “I get the carob powder from a company to support local, then designed the labels, the logo, and the website myself, and fill each package myself.”

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The product itself is safe and healthy for dogs, Weber points out, as there are many benefits to carob for dogs. From a product development standpoint, it also helps that she once started a dog walking/pet sitting business, worked in pet stores and an emergency vet clinic.

So far, Weber plans to have Choco-Pup on display at Oly’s Pet Connection at 45844 Yale Road. She describes it as the “first-ever hot chocolate” designed just for dogs.

Image: Nicole Weber / Choco-Pup

“Made with love and care, our all-natural pouches contain a delicious blend of carob powder, ensuring that your pup can enjoy a cozy beverage without any harmful ingredients,” the product description reads. “Imagine snuggling up on the couch or gathering around the campfire with your dog, both sipping on something warm and delightful.”

Each pouch is easy to mix, allowing people to whip up a cozy drink for dogs, Weber says.

You can find out more about the product via social media at www.instagram.com/choc_o_pup, o on her custom website at www.chocopup.ca.