You want to share peanut butter with your dog. But you are afraid you might end up visiting vet? Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs is in your head. Dogs can have peanut butter as long as it does not include toxic ingredients. Especially Xylitol! Plus many peanut butters are high in sugar, salt, and fat. They can cause obesity or pancreatitis.
You can give your dog peanut butter but in considerable amount I will tell you about it later in article. So stay with me as you find out whether giving peanut butter to your dog is a good idea or not.
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Why are people so paranoid about peanut butter for dogs?
Is peanut butter safe for dogs? Everyone keep asking this question. First let me clear why people are so afraid to give their dog peanut butter. Peanut butter is made of different ingredients. It contain vitamin, protein, fiber and other ingredients. In all that some peanut butter include Xylitol.
Xylitol can put your dog in so much pain. Xylitol is an alternative of sugar that is present in peanut butters. This substance is useful for us humans. But for dogs and cats this is nightmare. A toxic that can put them into such misery that no pet owner want. Many of many dogs have suffered due to this. Not just dogs, their owners too.
I love my dogs like they are my own children. I can understand how much it hurts to see your baby hurt and irritated. That is why safe peanut butter for dogs is on every owner’s tongue.
Xylitol and its Symptoms
Let’s say you have accidentally given your dog peanut butter that contain Xylitol. What to expect next? Well the symptoms can appear within 30 minutes of ingestion. On some occasions they take up to 12 hours.
Xylitol toxicity decreases blood sugar levels rapidly. Within 10-to-60 minutes your dog can be in life-threatening situation.
After I tell you the Symptoms peanut butter for dogs you will know why pet owners are so afraid. Why they think twice before giving the peanut butter to their dogs? Here are some Vomiting, Lethargy, and Collapse. These are some of the most common symptoms.
In Some cases your dog might experience Tremors, Seizures, and commas. These are the worst and of course life threatening. I never ever want my dog or anyone’s dogs to differ from these symptoms. You should be super cautioned about this.
What peanut butter you can give to your dog?
I think you might be afraid of what I have told you before. But don’t be afraid I will tell you some benefits of peanut butter for dogs. After the benefits you might think peanut butter is necessary for the healthy growth of your dog.
In simple words you can give peanut butter to your dogs that do not contain Xylitol. You should strictly look at the ingredients of the peanut butter you give to your dog. If you see Xylitol, keep it out of your dog’s reach. Always check the label. Only feed peanut butter that is specifically labeled as “Xylitol-free.”
If your dog has accidentally eaten peanut butter then contact your veterinarian ASAP!!! There is no time to waste in this situation. Hurriedly take your dog to the veterinarian for treatment. Call the Pet Poison Helpline (1-800-213-6680).
Benefits of peanut butter for dogs
- Peanut butter is rich with protein. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), raw Valencia peanuts contain about 25% protein. 7 grams in 2 teaspoons. It is healthy for your dog as it supports Muscle Maintenance.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids are also present in peanut butter. They take care of your dog’s skin. Peanut butter help make shiny coat and healthy skin.
- Fiber is another ingredient in Peanut butter for dogs. It has both soluble and insoluble dietary fibers. Fiber is essential nutrient for regulating bowel movements. With better bowel movement your dog’s digestive system is also on track.
- Peanut butter is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. All of them have different functions which contribute to overall health benefits of safe peanut butter for dogs. Important for energy metabolism. Maintains a healthy digestive tract. Strengthens your dog’s bones and more.
How much peanut butter can you feed to Your dog? (Serving Note)
Take a look at calories and the fat. Just because you see your dog jiggling and jumping after a bite. Doesn’t mean you can give him the whole jar. Peanut butter is energy-dense. I have already talked about what it is made of in benefit session.
Moderation is key when you add peanut butter in your dog’s diet. No more than 10% of your dog’s total calories per day is the most important instruction.
- For small dogs, ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon per day per day.
- Up to 1 tablespoon or more per day for a medium or large dog.
Tips to Choose the Right Peanut Butter for Dogs
Treating your pup peanut butter brings you smile? But before you go ahead and toss a glob of peanut butter in their bowl. So let’s make sure you’re choosing the right kind. Trust me, there’s more to it than just picking up whatever’s on sale.
- Ingredients Check: Always check that ingredient list. No added sugar, no funky sweeteners. Definitely no Xylitol. Don’t get me started on hydrogenated oils. These things are bad news. Keep things clean and simple.
- Go Natural or Organic: All-natural peanut butters that scream “healthy”? Yeah, they’re not just for you. They’re perfect for your dog too! Brands that use pure peanuts are always a safe bet. Just pure peanut goodness. Win-win!
- Smooth or Crunchy? Now, let’s talk texture. No chunks for smaller dogs. Choking is a real risk. Go with smooth peanut butter to be safe.For my big ol’ retriever, I’d say the chunkier, the better! He loves the little bits.
- No Added Salt, Please: Look, we all love a little salt in our own food. Dogs don’t need that extra sodium. Especially dogs with kidney issues or heart problems. Also watch their weight. It’s usually made with just peanuts and a pinch of salt—that’s it. That’s all they need.
- Portion Control: Peanut butter is a calorie bomb. It contains high fats that is why moderation is the key. It can lead to weight gain if you’re not careful. Buy peanut butter with a pump dispenser. It’s like the modern-day version of portion control.
Top Peanut Butter Brands for Dogs
You’ve made it this far, so here’s the good news. I’ve got some tried and tested peanut butter brands for you. You feel confident about what you’re feeding your dog.
- MaraNatha
- Smucker’s Natural Peanut Butter
- Spread the Love
Why choose our Butter Lickers Peanut Butter For Dogs?
While these brands can work, Butter Lickers offers something extraordinary:
- 100% Raw Ingredients
- Texas-Made
- No Hidden Additives
- Perfectly Portioned
- Veterinarian Approved
