Giving Peanut Butter to Dogs - Check Ingredients Carefully

There are various human foods that, while not designed specifically for dogs, can be given safely or as occasional treats. Peanut butter is a popular example — when offered sparingly, it rewards your dog, can be used in enrichment toys like Kongs, and can support underweight dogs with an additional source of protein and calories.

Dogs, unlike many humans, rarely suffer from nut allergies, but caution is necessary with dogs that scavenge or beg, such as the Golden retriever puppies, to prevent overconsumption.

Choosing the Right Peanut Butter for Dogs

When selecting peanut butter for your dog, it’s vital to carefully check the ingredients. Safe peanut butter typically contains only peanuts and sometimes salt. Many recommend choosing unsalted versions to avoid excessive sodium intake. Avoid brands that include sugar, preservatives, hydrogenated vegetable oils, corn syrup, palm oil, or artificial sweeteners. These can be harmful or unnecessary for dogs and add unwanted calories and fats.

Xylitol – A Deadly Ingredient to Avoid

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free human products, including some peanut butters. It is highly toxic to dogs, even in very small amounts, and can cause rapid hypoglycaemia (dangerously low blood sugar). Symptoms of xylitol poisoning include weakness, disorientation, collapse, seizures, or coma. Higher doses can cause acute liver failure, which may be fatal.

As a precaution, never feed your dog any peanut butter or nut butter that lists xylitol as an ingredient, even in trace amounts. If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol, seek urgent veterinary attention immediately.

The Role of Palm Oil in Peanut Butter

Some cheaper peanut butter brands substitute peanut oil with palm oil. While palm oil is not toxic, in larger quantities it can upset your dog's stomach and cause diarrhoea due to its rich saturated fats. An occasional small spoonful of peanut butter containing palm oil is unlikely to harm your dog, but frequent feeding should be avoided.

Brands to Avoid and Safer Alternatives

Two brands known for containing xylitol are Krush Nutrition and Nuts’n’More—both unsafe for dogs. Meanwhile, brands like Whole Earth, Meridian, Sun Pat, and Skippy currently offer xylitol-free options. However, manufacturers can change formulations without notice, so always check the packaging before purchasing.

Feeding Peanut Butter Responsibly

Remember that peanut butter is calorie-dense and high in fat, so it should only be fed occasionally and in moderation. Treats, including peanut butter, should not exceed 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake to prevent weight gain or pancreatitis risk.

In summary, select natural or unsalted peanut butter without xylitol or harmful additives, feed it sparingly, and always prioritise your dog’s health and safety. If in doubt, consult your vet before introducing any new treat into their diet.