Spanish firm launches Christmas nougat… for dogs!

You might be surprised to learn that dogs can also enjoy Christmas treats. Spain’s legendary sweet-maker Confectionary Holding — the company behind the classic festive brands 1880, Doña Jimena and El Lobo — has decided it’s time our four-legged friends got in on the holiday cheer. Their latest innovation for the holidays? Their latest festive innovation? A line of Christmas nougats, polvorones and other treats made especially for dogs. Yes, really.

From their sweet-scented headquarters in Xixona, Alicante — the undisputed capital of turrón — the company has unveiled a canine collection that would make even Santa’s reindeer drool. El Lobo is a brand that offers a variety of treats, including carrot nougat, rice-flour povorones, and coconut nougat. All are approved by veterinarians and are made from natural ingredients. The goal, say company sources, is to let owners and their pets share a symbolic festive moment… without anyone ending up at the vet’s after nibbling the wrong treat.

This range is furry-friendly and represents a bold entry into a market that few confectioners have explored. Confectionary Holding is well aware of the trend in pet spending across Europe. This season, it even smells like dog treats. The new line forms part of the group’s broader plan to sweeten its diversification strategy — and perhaps win over the hearts (and wagging tails) of pet lovers everywhere.

What about the human race?

Do not worry. The humans are still alive and well. El Lobo and 1880 labels are also receiving new products. Turrones de Autor offers gourmet delights for the more sophisticated palate: The Dubai Nougat is made from pistachios and cacaos with kataifi pastry and the Passion Fruit Nougat combines silky chocolat with a tropical twist. Both come in elegant 100-gram twin bars inspired by honeycomb designs — because even nougat can go haute couture.

El Lobo’s new Protein Source range, which is available in Jijona or Alicante, combines 65% roasted almonds with 30% less added sugar. These are gluten-free and free of guilt, perfect for those looking to enjoy a treat without feeling guilty after Christmas.

Gourmet innovation

This push for innovation follows last year’s successful launch of 1880’s artisanal ice cream line, made with their iconic nougats and introduced at the Salón Gourmets fair. With flavours like pistachio, toasted yolk and classic Jijona, the move aimed to make 1880 a year-round indulgence — not just a December fling.

Confectionary Holding, which posted €30.9 million in revenue last year and employs over 200 people in Alicante and Xixona, is also ramping up its sustainability efforts with renewable energy and solar installations.

So, this Christmas, while you’re tucking into your slice of almond heaven, your dog can crunch on his own festive turrón. Tradition meets innovation — and for once, the family pooch doesn’t have to sit and beg for a taste of Christmas.