Peanut butter provides dogs with an irresistibly nutritious treat, packed with protein, healthy fats and key vitamins and minerals such as niacin and B6.
But it’s essential that you select natural peanut butter without sugar or artificial sweeteners such as xylitol – this artificial sweetener can be found in many gums and sugar-free products that could potentially poison dogs.
Contents
Natural
Peanut butter with only peanuts and some salt is generally safe for dogs; just be sure to read and verify its ingredients before giving it. Natural varieties without added sugars or artificial sweeteners tend to be best, while all-natural brands that lack preservatives may also be available.
Peanut butter may still be toxic to dogs if it contains xylitol, which is found in certain gums and sugar-free snacks. Ingesting this substance causes rapid insulin release leading to rapid drops in blood sugar, leading to hypoglycemia which may result in weakness, confusion, unsteady gait and seizures in some dogs.
Peanut butter is packed with proteins and healthy fats that provide dogs with a nutritionally complete treat, and should be given in moderation (using the 10 percent rule). Peanut butter can also be useful for concealing pills to encourage picky dogs to take them, or as food topping on puzzle feeders or lick mats. Plus it helps maintain shiny coats.
Organic
As long as the peanut butter is organic or natural and doesn’t contain xylitol (a sugar replacement that is harmful for canines), it is safe for dogs to enjoy in moderation. Peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats, and other important nutrients essential to their overall wellbeing.
An excellent organic peanut butter should also be free from additives such as preservatives and extra sugar; look for brands such as Crazy Richard’s that feature only peanuts as ingredients!
This delicious spread can serve as a distraction during unpleasant experiences like nail clipping or bath time, filling puzzle feeders or lick mats and keeping your pet occupied while getting work done. Plus, it contains beneficial fiber which boosts colon strength, speeding bowel movements and keeps skin and coat looking great – plus essential B vitamins such as E, Niacin and Biotin for hair support, fat metabolism support and hormone production!
Chunky
Peanut butter contains healthy fats and proteins as well as essential vitamins such as niacin, B6 and E that provide essential nutrition. You can use peanut butter to create delicious treats by mixing with your dog’s food or directly feeding from a spoon; or using it to create puzzle feeders, toys and lick mats which provide mental stimulation as well as stress relief for your canine companion.
Be wary of peanut butter brands with added sugars or salts, and those containing macadamia nuts as these can be hazardous to dogs’ health. When looking for natural options like Crazy Richard’s 100% All-Natural Crunchy Peanut Butter that does not contain additives such as artificial sweeteners like xylitol – be on the lookout!
Avoid giving your pup jelly with their peanut butter as jelly often contains high levels of sugar which can contribute to obesity and diabetes in dogs. Furthermore, certain jelly varieties contain toxic fruit such as grapes or raisins which could harm their health.
Xylitol-free
Peanut butter treats for dogs can be deliciously nutritious treats, but it’s essential that their calorie consumption be monitored closely as excess caloric intake may lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health complications. Therefore, it may be useful to speak to your vet about healthy weight maintenance strategies such as tracking calories or applying the 10% rule (treats should account for no more than 10% of their diet).
Regular peanut butter brands may contain preservatives and extra sugar that aren’t ideal for pets. For an alternative option that’s healthier for both you and your pup, check out xylitol-free peanut butters such as Crazy Richard’s and Skippy Natural, both offering delicious crunchy texture without artificial sweeteners or hydrogenated vegetable oil.
