Why only in moderation for dogs
Plain peanut butter made only from peanuts is not toxic to dogs, and dogs love it. It contains a lot of protein, but even more fat and calories.
The key thing is the ingredients. Some peanut butters, especially those labelled sugar-free or light, are sweetened with xylitol, also called birch sugar. Xylitol is dangerous to dogs even in a small amount: it makes blood sugar drop sharply and can damage the liver. If your dog has eaten peanut butter with xylitol, contact a vet straight away, even if it seems well.
Even safe peanut butter is very fatty, so give only a little.
How to give it
- Choose a peanut butter whose only ingredient is peanuts, with no xylitol, salt or sugar.
- Check the label every time you buy it, because the recipe can change.
- Give only a little, for example spread on a toy.
- Give it only now and then, as a treat.
What to watch out for
- Peanut butter with xylitol is dangerous to dogs: if your dog ate some, contact a vet straight away.
- Xylitol can be listed as birch sugar, so read the whole ingredients list.
- A lot of fat can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and, in some dogs, inflammation of the pancreas.
- Salt, sugar and extra calories contribute to weight gain.
- Peanut butter with chocolate or other sweet additions is not suitable for a dog.
What to give instead
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin flesh without sugar or spices is fine for dogs, but not the skin, the stem or pumpkin pie filling. Safe
- Blueberries Yes, blueberries and bilberries are fine for dogs: give a few washed, unsweetened berries as an occasional treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
The "Dog treats" category compares prices for 10,433 products across shops. It is a product category, not a recommendation of what to give.