Peanut butter is a popular treat for dogs, but peanuts themselves can be dangerous. So why is peanut butter fine for dogs, but peanuts are not? There are a few key differences that make peanut butter safe, while whole peanuts present a choking hazard.
The Difference Between Peanut Butter and Peanuts
Peanut butter is made by roasting and grinding peanuts into a paste. This process breaks down the peanut into very small pieces, almost into a powder. So peanut butter contains the flavor of peanuts, but not the texture.
Whole peanuts, on the other hand, retain their fibrous, chunky texture. This difference in texture is the main reason why peanut butter is safer for dogs:
- Peanut butter is smooth and spreads easily, so it’s unlikely to cause choking.
- Whole peanuts have an irregular shape and can get lodged in a dog’s windpipe or intestines.
Additionally, peanut butter typically doesn’t contain the papery peanut skins or fragments of nutshell that could cause obstructions. The chunky variety may still have some peanut bits, so smooth peanut butter is recommended.
Other Differences Between Peanut Butter and Peanuts
Aside from texture, there are a few other differences between peanut butter and peanuts:
| Peanut Butter | Peanuts |
|---|---|
| Contains added sugar and salt | No added ingredients |
| High in fat | Lower in fat |
| Soft and spreads easily | Crunchy texture |
| Processed into a paste | Whole peanuts |
The high fat content of peanut butter can cause pancreatitis in dogs if fed in large quantities. But small amounts are unlikely to cause harm. Meanwhile, something about the hard, dry texture of whole peanuts makes them inappropriate as a snack for dogs.
Are Peanuts Toxic for Dogs?
Peanuts are not poisonous to dogs. But they can pose a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockages if swallowed whole. Some signs that a dog may have choked on or blockage from peanuts include:
- Coughing
- Gagging
- Drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty breathing
- Weakness or lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
These symptoms require immediate veterinary care. Choking can lead to death within minutes if left untreated. Intestinal obstructions also rapidly become life threatening.
Dogs can also develop allergies to peanuts, just like people. Signs of an allergic reaction include itchy skin, hives, wheezing, and facial swelling. If a peanut allergy is suspected, dogs should avoid peanuts and peanut products.
Other Nuts and Seeds to Avoid
While peanuts cause the most problems, other nuts and seeds are also potential choking hazards or sources of blockages. Avoid giving dogs whole almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, or any hard, dry nuts or seeds.
Nut butters like almond butter or sunflower seed butter are fine in moderation. But stick to smooth nut butters, not crunchy varieties.
Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs
Given in appropriate portions, peanut butter can be a healthy, nutritious treat for dogs. Some benefits include:
- Protein – Peanut butter contains plant-based protein, which provides dogs with essential amino acids.
- Fiber – The fiber in peanut butter may help regulate digestion in dogs.
- Vitamins – Peanuts contain lots of vitamin E, niacin, and biotin.
- Healthy fats – Peanut butter contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Flavor – Most dogs find peanut butter irresistible, making it a great incentive in training.
Giving Peanut Butter Safely
When giving peanut butter to dogs:
- Use only plain, salt-free peanut butter.
- Avoid peanut butter with xylitol or other sugar substitutes, as these can be toxic to dogs.
- Introduce peanut butter slowly or check for allergies first.
- Give only small portions, around 1 tsp for small dogs or 1 tbsp for large breeds.
- Choose smooth peanut butter instead of chunky.
- Supervise dogs when eating to prevent choking.
Peanut Butter Recipes for Dogs
Peanut butter on its own makes a great treat. But you can also mix peanut butter into homemade dog treats and foods. Some recipes to try include:
Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
- 2 1⁄2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 egg
- 1⁄2 cup milk
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix together flour and baking powder.
- In another bowl, stir peanut butter, egg, and milk until smooth.
- Add wet ingredients to dry and mix into a dough.
- Roll dough out and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool completely before feeding to dogs.
Frozen Peanut Butter Yogurt Treats
- 32 oz plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 2 tbsp honey (optional)
- In a bowl, mix together all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into popsicle molds or small paper cups.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours.
- Pop out of molds and feed to dogs.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups water
- 1 banana
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Cook oats in water until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Mash banana and mix into oats.
- Stir in peanut butter and cinnamon.
- Let cool before serving.
Conclusion
Peanut butter is a safe treat for dogs when given in moderation. It has a smooth texture that won’t cause choking. Peanuts themselves can be a choking risk and are difficult for dogs to digest whole. Stick with an all-natural peanut butter and supervise your dog to prevent problems. With proper precautions, peanut butter can be a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet.