Cedar mulch is pretty easy to get in CA. And they stuff some dog beds with cedar chips, so It seems to be safe for them. The only mulch I've ever heard is unsafe for dogs is cocoa hulls for the same reason dogs can't eat chocolate.

Thanks very much!!

I agree with the first comment. Any bark or wood mulch is safe for dogs and you should be able to find some locally at any landscape supply yard, if not wanting to purchase the more expensive bagged product.

It is only the coca bean hulls that are unsafe around dogs. Local dog parks use arborists' wood chips to cover high traffic or muddy areas, as these are typically available for free.