Is peanut butter bad for dogs

What Kind of Peanut Butter is Safe for Dogs?

For the most part, peanut butter can be awesome for dogs and most dogs LOVE it!

Peanut butter is great as an occasional "high value" treat, its useful for hiding pills, and it can even be used to distract your dog while giving them a bath or trimming their nails.

While most peanut butter brands are safe for dogs, not all peanut butters are safe.

Do Not Give Your Dog This Type of Peanut Butter

Its no longer easy to say whether its safe to give even a small amount of peanut butter to your dog. And there's a one-word answer as to why... Xylitol!

Xylitol is an increasingly common sugar-replacement sweetener in hundreds of products, including some brands of peanut butter. It's an all-natural sugar substitute thats fine for people, but its extremely poisonous to dogs and poisons thousands of dogs each year. We at Preventive Vet are happy to report that there has been an increase in awareness about xylitol both in peanut butter and in the more than 700 other products xylitol is found in and we have been able to influence some companies to change their labeling and warning practices.

Why Xylitol Is Dangerous to Dogs

Xylitol is a sweetener that's gaining in popularity because of its dental benefits for people and its suitability as a sugar substitute for people with diabetes. Yet thousands of dogs are accidentally poisoned by xylitol every year.

In fact, the toxic dose of xylitol in dogs is even less than chocolate! For example, as little as 1.37 grams of xylitol can cause a rapid drop in a dogs blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and result in staggering, disorientation, collapse, and seizures in a 30-pound dog*.

If a dog of the same size ingested 6.8 grams, it could be enough to cause a debilitating and likely deadly destruction of the dogs liver cells. Now consider that it would take about 22 times more (150 grams) of dark chocolate to result in the same level of severe toxicity.

Brands of Peanut Butter That Contain Xylitol and Are Not Safe for Dogs

There are still four known peanut/nut butter brands that contain xylitol (down from five brands), and more may spring up so please read labels carefully.

When selecting a peanut butter or peanut-flavored spread, keep these xylitol-containing brands far away from your dog:

• Go Nuts, Co.
• Krush Nutrition (appears to no longer be in production)
• Nuts 'N More
• P28

The increasing popularity of xylitol as an ingredient in a growing number of products including gums, mints, chewable vitamins, ice creams, common supplements, and many others highlights the importance of reading ingredient labels, as well as the danger of assuming that what's safe for you, or even your kids, is also safe for your pets.

See our list of over 700 products that contain xylitol many will surprise you!

What Type of Peanut Butter is Best for Dogs?

Generally speaking, any peanut butter that doesnt contain xylitol (or chocolate) should be fine for a dog. It can be a good source of protein and healthy fat for your dog in moderation, of course. However, some peanut butters are healthier than others.

A lot of peanut butter you find on the shelves has good qualities when it comes to your dog, but probably contains preservatives and extra sugar that arent great. Your best bet is to find peanut butter (or other nut butter) that is low on or completely free of additives.

This peanut butter made by Crazy Richard's (or this one by CB's Nuts) lists just one ingredient: peanuts. If your grocery store has a natural foods section, look for a peanut grinder so you can take home one ingredient peanut butter.

Crazy Richard's All Natural Creamy Peanut ButterCB's Nuts Organic Peanut Butter

And read labels and ingredient lists carefully don't assume that "all-natural" or "no artificial sweeteners" on the front label means it'll be safe for your dog. Xylitol is technically an "all-natural" sweetener!

If you have a decent blender or food processor, you can easily make your own peanut and nut butter at home! It will be healthier for your dog and they wont know the difference.

Note: While almonds, and just about any nut, can cause digestive upset, including pancreatitis, in dogs, contrary to what you may have read elsewhere on the Internet, regular (sweet) almonds, the type that are most common are not toxic to dogs.

Now, bitter almonds, which can sometimes be found in health food stores, can certainly be toxic. So be sure to stick with sweet almonds when making this almond butter recipe and your dog (and you) should be just fine.

How Much Peanut Butter is OK for Dogs?

A little bit of xylitol-free peanut butter for your dog will likely be perfectly fine overdo it though, and you can give your dog a nasty (as well as painful and expensive) case of pancreatitis and/or contribute to obesity.

So you need to be careful how much peanut butter you give your dog or any treat for that matter. The rule of thumb is to give no more than 10% of your dogs daily calories in treats.

The exact amount of peanut butter will vary from dog to dog and from peanut butter to peanut butter (check the caloric count on the label). Generally speaking, small dogs should get no more than about 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter per day and larger dogs should get no more than about 1 tablespoon. You can find a more detailed breakdown in Is Peanut Butter Good for Dogs?

PRO TIP: In dogs with chronic pancreatitis or those at increased risk for developing acute or chronic pancreatitis like Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers even a very small amount of a high-fat treat like peanut butter may be enough to bring on or worsen their pancreatitis and should be avoided completely.

Creamy or Crunchy Peanut Butter for Dogs?

You may have read that crunchy peanut butter can be a choking hazard for dogs. This is pretty unlikely unless youre giving a very small dog a very large amount of crunchy peanut butter.

But as you learned in the section above, even a decent-sized dog should only be allowed about a tablespoon of peanut butter per day, so its unlikely youll give enough at any one time to present a choking hazard.

So go ahead and give your dog whichever peanut butter creamy, crunchy, super crunchy, or any other variation you have. Creamy peanut butter tends to be easier to smear if you plan to use it to distract your dog during a bath (you can smear peanut butter on the bathtub or shower wall to distract your pooch) or while trimming their nails (you can smear peanut butter on a plate so your dog will be so busy licking that they wont notice or care that you're cutting their nails).

Is Peanut Butter and Jelly OK for Dogs?

Peanut butter is one thing, but jelly should be off-limits to your dog. Why? First, theres a lot of sugar in jam, jelly, and preserves if youre already giving your dog peanut butter, adding extra sugar will further increase the risk of obesity and diabetes. Second, some jelly contains dog-dangerous xylitol. Third, some types of jelly are made from fruits that you shouldnt give your dog.

For example, while strawberry jelly may not be toxic to dogs, grape jelly can be. Grapes are poisonous to some dogs and can cause acute kidney failure. The same goes for raisins and currants.

Either way, it's best to hold the jelly and jam when it comes to treating your dog.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Peanuts?

Unlike some humans, dogs do not appear to have an allergic reaction to peanuts. Im not aware of any documented cases of allergic or anaphylactic reactions to peanuts in dogs, nor to other nuts or seeds for that matter. But that doesnt completely rule out the possibility.

So, if its your dogs first (or second) time having peanut butter, or another nut butter, and youre concerned, give them just a small amount to start (like a lick off the tip of your finger) and keep an eye on them.

Concerning signs to watch for are listed below. As long as you dont see any of these signs within about an hour, youre likely OK.

• Signs of an acute allergic reaction (severe) in dogs:
  • Hives or small areas of swelling on their body
  • Swelling around their eyes and/or muzzle
  • Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Collapse
  • Severe itchiness
• Signs of a chronic food allergy (mild to moderate) in dogs:
  • Chronic/recurrent ear infections
  • Thin fur coat
  • Chronic itchiness and/or chewing of their paws
  • Recurrent problems with impacted anal glands

Companies That Have Removed Xylitol From Their Products

We will continue to reach out to companies that use xylitol to discuss this dog hazard and try to get formula changes or, at least, increased awareness on their product packaging and websites.

Below is a summary of the successes so far in getting brands to remove xylitol from their products or do a better job of notifying pet owners about the potential dangers.

Update (August 2023):We have reached out for verification but it seems as though No Cow has stopped manufacturing their Fluffbutter spreads.

Update (April 2018): The list of peanut and nut butters that contain xylitol is back UP TO FIVE!

On April 12, 2018, we received a xylitol product alert submission from a pet lover who brought a company called No Cow (previously called D's Naturals) to our attention. Their Fluffbutter spreads contain xylitol so please be sure to keep them far away from your dogs and help spread the word.

Update (August 2017): The list of peanut and nut butters that contain xylitol is now DOWN TO FOUR!

On August 3, 2017, we received a message from Hank Capasso, of Hanks Protein Plus Nut Spreads, announcing that he had taken the wonderful step of removing xylitol from his companys peanut and other nut butters.

I have always been an animal lover, never to the extent of being an advocate for the rights of animals, until recently, Hank wrote in the closing of that letter. In doing my research and in making myself open to their rights, it only makes sense. Why put them in danger, and why would we hurt the ones that we love?

We have checked their labels to confirm that their nut butters no longer contain xylitol and have removed them from our list of xylitol-containing products. Wed like to extend our sincerest thanks to Hank and the rest of the team at Hanks Protein Plus Nut Spreads for taking this fantastic step toward protecting dogs from the dangers of xylitol.

Update (August 2015): We have been in discussions with Nuts N More and they have agreed to take some good initial steps to improve awareness of the hazard that xylitol poses to dogs. They have added a new warning about the dangers of xylitol to dogs in the "What Is Xylitol?" section of their FAQ page (though note that there truly is no maybe about it, xylitol IS dangerous to dogs).

Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?

Whether youre a new pet parent or an experienced one, you may wonder if its safe and/or healthy to give your dog peanut butter.

Many peanut butters are, indeed, safe for most healthy dogs.

Peanut butter is commonly used when giving medications, but can serve some other really useful purposes in your dogs training and playtime. However, you should discuss with your veterinarian whether your dog in particular should have peanut butter.

Heres what you need to know about ways to use peanut butter, health and safety considerations for your dog, and how much you should give them.

How Much Peanut Butter Can a Dog Eat?

Just because a dog can eat peanut butter doesnt mean you can give them as much as they want. You will need to consider the calories and the fat, and limit the amount accordingly.

Peanut butter is high in calories and fat, so less is more.

Peanut butter is energy-dense, with around 180-200 calories per 2 tablespoonsmost of which comes from fat. That means the calories in peanut butter add up quickly.

Ask your vet how many calories your dog should be eating per day, including both meals and treats. No more than 10% of your dogs total calories per day should come from treats.

Only give as much peanut butter as your dog needs for giving medications, using in a puzzle feeder, or for bath-time cooperation, and not any extra. For some medication, only a pea-sized amount of peanut butter will do.

If given as a treat, your dog will find a small amount to be just as thrilling as a large amount.

As a starting point, it is reasonable to limit peanut butter offerings to:

• teaspoon for a small dog, twice per day

• 1 teaspoon for a medium or large dog, twice per day as a maximum amount

Your individual dogs needs may vary based on their general health and diagnosed conditions. If your dog is on a special diet, or has been diagnosed with diseases like diabetes, pancreatitis, obesity, or sensitive stomach, ask your vet if peanut butter is still okay for you to give.

Peanut butter is not a balanced source of nutrition.

Could the high calorie content of peanut butter help skinny dogs that need to gain weight? Unfortunately, the answer is not healthfully. Peanut butter does not provide a balanced source of nutrients, as it is mostly fat.

For that reason, feeding excessive amounts may do more harm than good for an under-nourished dog.

After examining your dog for underlying health concerns, your vet will make recommendations for safe, calorie-dense diets and treats.

Dangers of Peanut Butter for Dogs

While peanut butter is the go-to treat for many pet parents, here are a few things to be careful of.

Do Not Use Peanut Butter Containing Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener thats common in gum and sugar-free snacks, and its used in some brands of peanut butter. Xylitol ingestion can be life-threatening for dogs in multiple ways.

Xylitol causes a sudden, dangerous drop in blood sugar. Low blood sugar, also called hypoglycemia, causes confusion, stumbling, lethargy (excessive sleepiness and depression), and seizures. When left untreated, low blood sugar can lead to death.

In addition to low blood sugar, xylitol can also cause severe liver damage. Make sure your favorite brand of peanut butter is safe by reading the ingredients list printed on the label, especially for any product labeled as sugar-free.

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog eats a product with xylitol in it. If your regular veterinarians clinic is closed, call an emergency service for guidance.

Dogs Can Be Allergic to Nuts, Too

While sudden, life-threatening allergic reactions typical in humans with nut allergies are rare in dogs, other allergic signs may occur.

Vomiting and diarrhea, as well as skin disorders like itching, hair loss, and excessively greasy hair coat, may all occur with a food allergy and can sometimes be severe. If you ever notice any of these signs after giving your dog peanut butter, stop offering it and call your veterinarian.

Keep in mind that if a household member is allergic to peanut butter, your dogs mouth and breath may transfer the allergen to them or around your house.

How to Use Peanut Butter Safely With Dogs

Here are three scenarios where you might use peanut butter, plus tips on giving it to your dog safely.

Using Peanut Butter to Give Medication

Giving medications like pills and capsules can be stressful since most dogs wont willingly eat plain medication.

Peanut butter can help make this job easier by cloaking the medication in something delicious. The stickiness and intense flavor of peanut butter disguises the texture and flavor of most pills.

When you first start using peanut butter to give your dog medications, be sure to offer a dollop with no medications hidden inside yet. Get them excited to eat the peanut butter by asking them to sit first, as you would for any treat, then offer it as a reward.

Once you know he or she likes peanut butter, then you can try hiding medication inside. Many dogs will gulp down the medication and peanut butter without a second thought.

Feeding Peanut Butter for Bath Time

When training your dog to tolerate bath time, try smearing a small amount of peanut butter on the wall of your tub or shower as a distraction. As they busily lick it off, they will be less focused on being washed, making it more fun for both of you.

Using Peanut Butter for Playtime

If you have a smart, high-energy dog that is highly food-motivated, consider using peanut butter with a fun puzzle feeder toy.

You can fill a large Kong with kibble, seal the hole with peanut butter, and put it in the freezer for two to three hours. Offer this puzzle on an easy-to-clean floor and challenge your dog to figure out how to spill the kibble out. This is a great way to keep your dog entertained when youre home and want to keep an eye on them, but are unable to play.

Keep your dog safe by using a xylitol-free peanut butter. Keep his or her general health and waistline in mind when offering peanut butter as a treat.

If you have any questions or concerns about your dogs diet, contact your veterinarian for help and recommendations. Every dog is different, so be mindful of how peanut butter affects them.

Featured Image: Adobe/Photoboyko