Peanut butter? Yummy. A tasty and creamy spread that we all love. Can our beloved dogs have peanut butter? We’ll uncover that further.
Can Dogs Eat Peanuts? YES. Peanuts are safe for dogs. Unseasoned, raw, or dry-roasted peanuts can be a great treat.
What We Need to Be Aware Of:
- Peanut shells: They can choke small dogs. Always take care to remove the shells before you feed your dog peanuts.
- Aflatoxins: Molds that grow on peanuts produce aflatoxins, which are harmful substances. While uncommon, they can be dangerous to dogs. Prefer peanuts that are human grade.
- Seasoned and salted peanuts: Salted peanuts and peanut butter with added sugars, xylitol (a sugar alcohol that is hazardous to dogs), and chocolate chips are strictly prohibited. These ingredients can cause digestive issues or possibly be toxic.
- Allergies
Advantages Of Peanuts and Peanut Butter for Dogs:
- Packed with Protein: Protein is necessary for both gaining and preserving muscle mass, and peanut butter is a fantastic source of it.
- Healthy Fats: The healthy fats in peanut butter give your dog energy and promote general health.
- Positive Reinforcement Tool: Peanut butter works well for training or concealing medication due to its sticky nature.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in niacin, folate, and vitamins B6 and E, peanuts promote your dog’s healthy immune system and general well-being.
How To Make Homemade Peanut Butter For Your Dogs:
- What You Need:
- One cup of unsalted, raw peanuts
- One tablespoon of honey
- Procedure:
- In a food processor, chop the peanuts into small fragments
- Add honey and blend
- Refrigerate and store in an airtight container
- Serve a small amount as a treat
How Much to Serve Your Dog:
- For small dogs- a half teaspoon is plenty.
- For medium-sized dogs- one or two teaspoons should be plenty.
- For large dogs- two or three tablespoons.
Peanuts and peanut butter serve as a tasty treat or snack when prepared correctly and in small amounts. Consult your vet if you have any concerns. Safety is key. Watch your dog lick his paws once you try to make peanut butter at home.
