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Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Peanut butter is a spread made from ground roasted peanuts, and a favorite way to hide pills or fill chew toys. Peanut butter is a popular treat for dogs, but check the label first: xylitol, an artificial sweetener in some brands, is highly toxic to dogs.
How to serve peanut butter to your dog
- Read the ingredient list and make sure it contains no xylitol
- Choose unsalted, unsweetened peanut butter
- Offer a small lick or up to a teaspoon, depending on size
What to avoid
- Any peanut butter that lists xylitol (also called birch sugar)
- Salted or sweetened peanut butter
- Large amounts, which add a lot of fat and calories
How much peanut butter can my dog have?
Peanut butter is calorie-dense, and treats should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. A small lick up to about a teaspoon is a sensible starting point, depending on your dog's size, and it should not be a daily habit.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat peanut butter?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding peanut butter. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my dog ate too much peanut butter?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my dog have peanut butter?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Peanut Butter?