Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?

Published: June 16, 2023

Blog Summary: “Is peanut butter good for dogs?” In this blog, learn all things dogs and peanut butter, including whether it’s safe for them and if it offers any health benefits...

 

If you're a dog owner, you've probably experienced big puppy dog eyes looking up at you as you open the peanut butter jar, pleading with you to share the thick, golden delicious spread.

Well, although many of us have shared this popular nut butter with our four-legged friends, you may have wondered whether or not peanut butter is good for dogs.

After all, peanut butter is a tasty treat that many of us humans love, so it's natural to want to share it with our pups, especially if it can offer some health benefits.

But should dogs eat peanut butter?

Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs?

First things first, not all peanut butter is created equal. When it comes to feeding peanut butter to your dog, it's important to choose a brand that doesn't contain any harmful ingredients like xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be deadly for dogs; salt, as high sodium can cause health complications; and additional additives. Always read the ingredient list before feeding your pup any peanut butter.

So, assuming you've chosen a safe brand, or if it's homemade, you haven't added any harmful ingredients, most dogs can eat peanut butter in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fats, which can be beneficial for your dog's overall health. However, peanut butter can bring some health risks...

Health Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs

We humans often add peanut butter to our diets because of the health benefits. So, could those potential health benefits also help our pups? Well, here are a few:

Protein

Peanut butter is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. This can be especially beneficial for active dogs or those who need to recover from an injury.

Healthy Fats

Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower your dog's risk of heart disease and improve their coat and skin health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Peanut butter also naturally hosts a plethora of vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, vitamin B6, and magnesium, which can help support your dog's immune system and overall health.

Natural Enrichment Tool

Peanut butter is great to use as an enrichment tool for dogs, especially to help reduce separation anxiety or boredom. Many pet parents spread nut butter over a lick mat or squeeze it into a Kong and give it to their pup to lick. Not only will it help keep your dog occupied and stimulate their mind for a while, but licking can help soothe stress and anxiousness, too - perfect for a pup that doesn’t like being left alone.

Is Peanut Butter Dangerous For Dogs?

While peanut butter can be a healthy treat for most dogs, there are a few situations where it can be dangerous and needs to be avoided.

Here are some things to watch out for:

Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can have food allergies, too. If your dog has never had peanut butter before, start with a small amount and monitor them for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, hives, or difficulty breathing.

Xylitol

As mentioned earlier, xylitol is a sugar substitute that can be extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can be deadly, so it's crucial to choose a peanut butter that doesn't contain this ingredient. 

However, if you do find that your pup has got their paws on peanut butter that contains xylitol, it's crucial that you seek medical help as soon as possible.

Symptoms of xylitol poisoning: 

• Weakness 
• Vomiting  
• Lack of activity 
• Difficulty walking 
• Collapsing 
• Fits and seizures 

Choking Hazard

Now, peanut butter can be a choking hazard, especially for small dogs or those who like to eat quickly. Always make sure to supervise your dog while they're eating peanut butter and try to avoid giving them large chunks to reduce the chance of choking.

Obesity

As delicious as it is, peanut butter is very high in calories and fats, so it should always be fed in moderation. If your pup is overweight or prone to obesity, it might be wise to avoid giving them peanut butter. 

Final Thoughts

So, is peanut butter good for dogs? The answer is yes - as long as it's fed in moderation and doesn't contain any harmful ingredients. Peanut butter can be a healthy treat that provides your dog with plenty of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Just make sure to choose a safe brand, always supervise your dog while they're eating it, and avoid feeding it to dogs with allergies or weight problems.

As with any food you give your dog, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine what types of treats are best. They will provide you with guidance on how much peanut butter your dog can safely consume and whether or not it's a good fit for their overall diet. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy sharing peanut butter with your pup and rest easy knowing you're keeping them happy and healthy.

 

Sources

“Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?”, Hills Pet, Apr 23. 2021 https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/nutrition-feeding/can-dogs-eat-peanut-butter