Peanuts are delicious, and many dogs love peanut product treats. But are they truly safe? For the most part, yes – but it’s complicated!
If your dog is not allergic to peanuts, the best ways to give them the nuts themselves are by:
- Providing raw, unsalted peanuts
- Going for dry roasted peanuts
- Opting for cooked cashews or hazelnuts, too
Peanut butter is a common favorite snack for dogs, and for the most part, it’s not a bad treat option. It’s got lots of vitamins, proteins, and good fats. But in excess, it can lead to obesity, and you have to make sure that the peanut butter does not contain:
Hydrogenated Fat
Most peanut butter has bad fat to go with its good. Opt for ones without hydrogenated fats.
Xylitol
This artificial sweetener is toxic and even deadly to dogs.
Salt
Dogs do need to eat salt, but the amount in peanut butter will likely be way too much for them.
Aflatoxins
“Healthy” peanut butter products are freshly ground and used, meaning they contain higher amounts of aflatoxins, which are natural fungi that can be dangerous for dogs and humans alike.
You can feed peanut butter to a dog by:
- Wrap it in a thin slice of dog-safe meat
- Provide it to your dog on a spoon
- Put it in or on a toy or chew
- Mix it in dog-safe ice-cream or yogurt, then freeze for icy treats
Feature Image Source: Pixabay