Dogs love treats, and dog owners love to spoil their furry friends with delicious snacks. Some popular options are biscuits, dental sticks, and even peanut butter stuffed bones or treats. Peanut butter can be a tasty treat for dogs and a good source of protein. However, there are some things owners need to know before feeding peanut butter bones to dogs.
The Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs
In moderation, peanut butter can provide some benefits for dogs. Here are some of the positives of giving dogs peanut butter:
- Peanut butter is a good source of protein – Quality protein is essential for dogs as it provides amino acids that support their growth and development. Peanut butter can be a tasty way to supplement their regular dog food.
- It’s high in healthy fats – Peanut butter contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can help regulate cholesterol. The fats also provide concentrated energy for active dogs.
- It may help with dental health – The stickiness of peanut butter can help remove plaque and tartar as dogs chew. This effect is mild, but it provides a little dental benefit.
- Dogs love the flavor – Most dogs go crazy for foods like peanut butter. The creamy texture and nutty aroma entice canines, making peanut butter an ideal treat or training tool.
In moderation, peanut butter can provide extra nutrition and be a cherished cheat for dogs. Just a spoonful or small portion of peanut butter occasionally can be fine. However, there are some potential issues owners should be aware of before feeding their dogs peanut butter stuffed bones or other large amounts of this treat.
Potential Dangers of Peanut Butter Bones and Treats
While peanut butter is not toxic to dogs, there are some hazards to be aware of:
- Choking risk – Bones, large treats, or chunks of peanut butter can present choking hazards. Dogs may swallow them whole and obstruct their throat or intestines.
- High calories – Peanut butter is very energy dense, with nearly 100 calories in just one tablespoon. Eating too much can lead to unhealthy weight gain in dogs.
- Digestive upset – Some dogs may experience diarrhea or vomiting if they eat too much peanut butter. The high fat content can be hard to digest for sensitive systems.
- Allergies – As with humans, some dogs may have peanut allergies. Anaphylaxis is rare but possible in sensitive dogs.
- Xylitol toxicity – Some peanut butters contain xylitol sweetener which is extremely toxic to dogs.
With the risks above in mind, owners have to be very careful about feeding their dogs any products containing large amounts of peanut butter. Moderation and common sense are key.
Are Peanut Butter Stuffed Bones Safe?
Bones and chews stuffed with peanut butter have recently surged in popularity. Many major dog treat brands now offer these products. However, the risks of choking and digestive issues may be elevated with peanut butter stuffed bones. Owners should consider a few factors when choosing whether to feed these treats:
- Dog size – Very large bones pose less of a choking hazard for big dogs. But smaller dogs may try to swallow large pieces whole. Choose size-appropriate treats.
- Ingredients – Look for peanut butter bones made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid artificial additives.
- Portion size – Only allow dogs 1 or 2 bones at a time. Too much can lead to health issues.
- Supervision – Always supervise dogs with any chews or bones. This prevents excessive consumption and choking risks.
With careful selection and supervision, most healthy adult dogs can enjoy an occasional peanut butter stuffed bone safely. Puppies, small dogs, and dogs with digestive troubles may do best avoiding them.
Healthiest Ways to Give Dogs Peanut Butter
When fed responsibly, peanut butter can be a fine treat for dogs. Here are some healthy ways to incorporate peanut butter into a dog’s diet:
- Stuff a Kong toy with a spoonful or two – Freezing the Kong with peanut butter inside keeps dogs busy and content.
- Mix a bit into their kibble – A tablespoon or less per meal adds flavor without excess calories.
- Use for training treats – Tiny pea-sized amounts are perfect for rewarding dogs during training.
- Add to homemade dog biscuits or muffins – For healthy homemade baked treats, try adding 2-3 tablespoons of peanut butter to the recipe.
- Smear inside their chew bones – A thin layer of peanut butter lines the inside of bones without presenting choking risks.
Dogs only need about a teaspoon of peanut butter per day to enjoy it as a treat. Healthy adult dogs can handle a bit more, about 2 tablespoons daily, as an occasional snack. Small dogs need even less. When used prudently, peanut butter can be a safe and beloved snack for canines.
What to Look for in Peanut Butter for Dogs
Not all peanut butters are created equal when it comes to dogs. Some contain sweeteners and additives that may be harmful to canines. When purchasing peanut butter to give dogs, look for these qualities:
- All natural – Choose all-natural peanut butters without artificial flavors, sugars, emulsifiers, or other additives. Ingredients should just be peanuts and maybe salt.
- No sugar substitutes – Avoid peanut butters with xylitol or other sugar substitutes, as these are toxic for dogs.
- Unhydrogenated oils – Skip peanut butters with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils, as the trans fats are unhealthy.
- No “reduced fat” – Fat helps make peanut butter appealing to dogs, so avoid reduced fat or light varieties.
- Salt-free or lightly salted – If possible, choose low-sodium peanut butters to moderate doggy salt intake.
Human peanut butter brands that are safe for dogs include Teddie All Natural and Skippy Natural. There are also specially formulated dog peanut butters such as Kong Stuff’n, Milk-Bone Brushing Chews, and Pawstruck Dog Peanut Butter.
Peanut Allergies in Dogs
Though uncommon, some dogs develop allergies to peanuts and other foods. Symptoms of food allergies in dogs include:
- Itchy skin or recurrent ear infections
- Obsessive licking of the paws or other body parts
- Hair loss
- Gastrointestinal signs like vomiting or diarrhea
- Scooting (rubbing their bottom along the floor)
If a dog exhibits these signs after eating peanut butter or other new foods, owners should consult with their veterinarian. Elimination diet trials supervised by a vet are needed to diagnose food allergies. Once identified, the offending food must be avoided. Anaphylactic reactions to peanuts can occur but are relatively rare in dogs.
Peanut Butter Precautions for Dogs
Again, moderation is key when feeding any treats to dogs. Here are some precautions owners should take with peanut butter:
- Start slowly with tiny amounts to ensure your dog tolerates it
- Select a high-quality peanut butter made for dogs if possible
- Monitor your dog anytime they eat bones, chews, or other choking hazards
- Avoid very large blocks or globs of sticky peanut butter
- Adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s size and activity level
- Discontinue use if your dog has signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or allergies
Owners know their dogs best. Dogs with medical conditions like diabetes or allergies may need more care when it comes to treats. When in doubt, check with your veterinarian about the appropriateness of peanut butter or any other people foods for your dog.
Conclusion
Peanut butter can be a great occasional treat for dogs in moderation. Stuffed bones and treats are popular, but pose heightened choking risks and other concerns. Responsible owners should follow precautions like picking products made for dogs, monitoring use, controlling portions, and supervising anytime dogs have high-risk items like bones. While peanut butter isn’t toxic to dogs, it does carry some dangers if owners allow excessive consumption. When fed carefully and in moderation though, most healthy adult dogs can enjoy and benefit from the occasional peanut butter treat.
| Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs | Potential Dangers of Peanut Butter for Dogs |
|---|---|
|
|
| Safe Ways to Feed Dogs Peanut Butter | What to Look for in Peanut Butter for Dogs |
|---|---|
|
|
Peanut Butter Precautions for Dogs
- Start with small amounts
- Select peanut butter made for dogs
- Monitor your dog with any chews
- Avoid large globs
- Adjust portions for dog size
- Discontinue if signs of allergic reaction