Is Peanut Butter Good for Dogs?
Along with being a rich source of protein, peanut butter contains important nutrients like magnesium, zinc, copper, and iron, along with vitamins E, B3, and B6, making it a super food for people.
But, what about our canine friends? Can dogs also eat peanut butter?
The good news is, when fed in controlled amounts, peanut butter is not only safe for dogs, it's also beneficial!
What Peanut Butter is Safe for dogs?
What to look for in dog safe peanut butter products:
Low Sodium
Too much sodium can cause multiple health issues in dogs, such as hypertension, electrolyte imbalance, and kidney damage. Look for peanut butter brands that contain low to no salt.
Zero Xylitol
Xylitol is a common sugar substitute that’s extremely toxic to dogs. This dangerous chemical compound can be fatal, even if ingested in very small amounts. Be sure to read the label carefully to make sure it does not contain any xylitol.
Smooth Texture
Smooth, or "creamy" peanut butter, is better for your dog than the chunky variety. Peanut butter with peanut pieces can be a choking hazard and cause digestion problems for dogs.
No Artificial Ingredients
Along with added sugars, avoid peanut butter that contains hydrogenated oils, saturated fats, added preservatives, and artificial flavors.
Things to consider before feeding your dog peanut butter or treats that are made with peanut butter
Ingredients
When choosing peanut butter products for your dog that are both delicious and nutritious, look for a reputable company that has done the research to ensure safety. Be sure their peanut butter products contain only high-quality ingredients from trusted suppliers, and are veterinarian formulated specifically for dogs.
Allergies
If your dog has a known nut allergy or sensitivity, you should avoid giving them peanut butter. Peanut allergies in dogs are common and can cause itching, swelling, and stomach problems. Some dogs can even have a severe reaction that can become a dangerous and even a potentially fatal situation if not treated promptly. When adding peanut butter to your dog's diet, start slowly at first, in small amounts, and monitor your dog for any negative reactions before continuing to feed.
Moderation
Peanut butter is both delicious and nutritious, and can be a tasty and healthy treat for your pup. Just remember, peanut butter is high in calories and fat, which means that moderation is key! A small spoonful or a few dollops of peanut butter on a treat or toy can be a great way to provide mental stimulation and reward your pup during training sessions, but peanut butter, and dog treats that contain peanut butter should not make up a significant portion of their diet. Peanut butter contains a high amount of calories and fat, so it is essential to monitor your dog's calorie intake.
If your dog has a fondness for peanut butter, you're in luck because there are many treats for dogs that are made with peanut butter.
If you prefer the convenience of store-bought treats, you can easily find peanut butter dog treats at your local pet store. They come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different breeds and sizes of dogs. However, if you're feeling adventurous and want to try your hand at baking, there are countless recipes available online for homemade peanut butter dog treats! And what better way to show your dogs how much you love them than by baking them yummy homemade peanut butter treats!
The Calming Effects of Peanut Butter for Dogs
Considering the nutritional value and palatability of peanut butter, it’s not surprising that it also happens to be a popular ingredient in many different products for dogs, including those that provide a calming effect.
Peanut butter stands out as a highly effective product for pets with anxiety. Not only when it contains anxiety reducing properties, but even when it's used on its own.
Add peanut butter to toys, puzzles, bones, lick mats and more! By adding peanut butter to a toy, you can keep your dog occupied and engaged, helping to alleviate their anxiety. The challenge of getting the peanut butter out of the toy will keep their mind off the stressor and provide a calming distraction. And don't forget about dog puzzles that challenge your dog to think and work for their treats, and even food. They can be just as engaging, and provide just as much energy release as a walk!
Having effective ways to calm your anxious dog during stressful situations is essential for their wellbeing.
Ways to Keep Your Dog Calm
Any changes in your dog's daily routine can potentially cause anxiety. This includes traveling, moving, a new pet or family member, the chaos of a holiday, and more. Providing your dog with a safe and quiet space they can retreat to will help to comfort them, greatly reducing their stress.
- Calm your dog’s anxiety naturally with calming supplements such as calming chews, calming treats, or calming powder. Chose products that contain L-theanine to reduce stress and encourage relaxation, and L-tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts serotonin and promotes balanced mood.
- It is important to prioritize your dog's mental well-being and take proactive steps to alleviate their anxiety. If natural supplements are not providing the results your dog needs, talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate calming medication. This may be a fast-acting anti-anxiety medication that is used as needed, such as gabapentin and trazadone, or an FDA approved long-term SSRI for dogs, used to treat behavioral issues such as separation anxiety, excessive barking, reactive behavior, and aggression.
- In addition to medication, seeking the assistance of a trained behaviorist can greatly benefit both you and your furry friend. These professionals specialize in behavior modification techniques that can help reduce your dog's stress and anxiety. They will work closely with you in addressing your dog's stress and anxiety by implementing behavioral changes and developing a personalized plan tailored to your dog's specific needs. Pairing this with medication like Prozac can lead to highly favorable results.
Remember, every dog is unique, so it's crucial to identify the method that works best for your anxious pup. By being proactive and addressing their stress promptly, you can prevent potential behavioral problems from arising in the future. Your dog's happiness and well-being should always be a top priority, and by taking these steps, you can help them live a calmer and happier life.
Products related to this article:
Every Sale Supports a Shelter Pet. Learn More.
Made in Vermont. Learn More.
If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.
