We all know how much dogs love peanut butter, but you may be wondering can I feed my dog peanut butter? The answer is yes; dogs can eat peanut butter. Peanut butter is a wonderful treat, but it is precisely that, a treat. 

Peanut butter can serve as a tasty supplement for your dog’s diet, as long as you always make sure to monitor the ingredients closely and are only giving it to them in moderation. 

Let’s dive in and find out more about what’s safe about feeding your dog peanut butter, what’s not, and some tips you should know before giving it to them.

Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs?

Most peanut butter is perfectly safe for dogs so long as it is consumed in moderation. When eaten as a treat sparingly, peanut butter can be a great source to provide your pup with a healthy dose of protein and natural fats. Although the fats present in peanut butter are healthy fats, they are still fats and can lead to obesity and other health complications when consumed in excess. 

The best peanut butter to buy for your dog is unsalted peanut butter or dog-specific peanut butter, as high sodium levels can also lead to health complications for your pooch.

How Much Peanut Butter Can Dogs Eat?

As mentioned, peanut butter is rich in natural fats and is high in calories, so too much consumption is not good for their diet and can lead to health complications. The best way to know the appropriate amount to feed your dog is to call your vet and ask for their advice. This is especially important for dogs that have pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, or specific food sensitivity issues.

With that being said, most of us are looking for more general advice on what is a safe amount to give our beloved pets. So for the majority of us, the 10 per cent rule is the most common rule to follow. The 10 per cent rule advises that treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s caloric intake.

Generally speaking, this would equate to approximately 1/2 teaspoon twice a day for small dogs and 1 teaspoon twice daily for medium to large dogs. 

Additionally, because peanut butter is so rich in fats and high in calories, it would be a good idea to alternate with healthier treats. It is best to only feed your dog peanut butter when necessary, such as when giving them medications, or using it as a tool for training purposes. 

What Peanut Butter is Toxic For Dogs?

This is the most important factor to consider when looking into feeding your dog peanut butter. It is vital to make sure that you avoid peanut butter that contains xylitol. Xylitol is a common sugar replacement sweetener found in many products, including several peanut butter products. 

Because of its dental benefits and its ability to be used as a replacement for people with diabetes, xylitol has become increasingly popular as a sugar replacement in many products. Though safe for humans, it is toxic when consumed by canines. 

Xylitol is extremely toxic for dogs. It causes a rapid release of insulin in dogs, which results in a significant decrease in their blood sugar levels. Even in small doses, xylitol can cause hypoglycemia and seizures and commonly results in death.

Why is Xylitol Toxic For Dogs?

As is the same for both dogs and humans blood sugar is controlled by the release of insulin from the pancreas. With humans, xylitol does not stimulate this response. However, when ingested by dogs xylitol rapidly absorbs into their bloodstream, resulting in a fatal amount of insulin being released from their pancreas. 

This release of insulin into the bloodstream results in a quick drop in blood sugar, causing hypoglycemia. The effects can be seen as soon as 10 to 60 minutes after consumption and are extremely life-threatening if not treated immediately. 

What Are the Symptoms of Xylitol Poisoning in Dogs?

Initial symptoms of xylitol poisoning typically occur within the first hour after consumption. These symptoms are a result of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). As a result initial responses typically begin with vomiting. This is followed by symptoms associated with a sudden drop in blood sugar, such as sluggishness, weakness, staggering, and lack of coordination. Eventually, your dog may begin to have seizures or even fall into a coma. 

If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol or you begin to notice the symptoms associated with it, get your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Most dogs do recover from xylitol poisoning, but veterinary intervention is imperative. 

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Peanuts?

Allergic reactions to peanuts in dogs are a very rare occurrence. Unlike in humans, there are no documented cases of dogs suffering from anaphylactic shock as a result of ingesting peanuts. 

Common allergic responses in dogs include swelling around the eyes and muzzle, rapid or difficulty breathing, itching, vomiting and diarrhea. If you notice any of these reactions immediately after feeding your dog peanut butter, contact your veterinarian.

What Are Some Tips For Giving Your Dog Peanut Butter?

Peanut Butter is a great way to make giving your dog medication, much easier. If your dog dislikes taking medication, hiding it in a glob of peanut butter is a great way to disguise the medication and ensure your pup will wolf down its meds. 

Peanut Butter is also a great way to train your furry friend. Dogs love the taste of peanut butter, making it a great incentive for teaching your dog how to be obedient or how to do entertaining tricks around the house. 

Another great option is to fill your dog’s treat toy with your favourite training and rewards Treats like Bell & Bone's Freeze Dried Raw Treats and Superfoods Treats, then smother it in peanut butter, letting your dog lick it up until their heart is content. This is not only entertaining and will keep them preoccupied, but licking reduces stress and anxiety in dogs and prolongs their consumption so that they are not eating excessive amounts of peanut butter. 

There is no need to keep your pooch in suspense any longer. Eating peanut butter is perfectly safe for your dog, as long as it is done in moderation and most importantly, does not contain xylitol. So next time you are looking for a fun tasty snack, your pup will love, pull out a jar of pet-safe peanut butter and watch that adorable submissive grin light up their day.

 

Being a dedicated dog owner often involves asking the right questions, seeking the right advice and, most importantly, checking in with your pup to make sure that it's healthy and happy. When in doubt, or in the event of health concerns, always consult a professional. Head to our FAQs page for more answers to dog treat-related questions. If you have any other questions, please feel free to get in touch with me and I'll make it a priority to keep you informed and empowered.

 

sources:

https//pets.wedmd/pet-treats

https//www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutition/can-dogs-eat-peanut-butter/

https//vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/xylitol-toxicity-in-dogs