Don’t Feed This Type Of Peanut Butter To Your Dog

“If you feed your dog pills coated in peanut butter, or put peanut butter in their hollow chew toys, make sure to check the list of ingredients first to make sure it doesn’t contain xylitol,” said Carmela Stamper, a veterinarian at the FDA.

Paws off! Xylitol is Toxic to Dogs

Dogs who have ingested xylitol require immediate treatment. Xylitol poisoning can cause seizures, liver failure and possibly death. Anyone who suspects their dog may have ingested xylitol should contact their veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Symptoms manifest quickly and include vomiting, muscle weakness, tremors, and difficulty walking.

These Peanut Butter Brands Are NOT Safe for Dogs

Peanut butter brands that contain xylitol include Go Nuts, Co., Krush Nutrition, Nuts ‘N More, P28 Foods, and No Cow (formerly D’s Naturals). Peanut butter that doesn’t contain xylitol is absolutely safe for dogs and a healthy treat—just be sure to read the label! Peanut butters that contain added sugars and palm oil (key culprit in the destruction of orangutan habitats!) may be technically safe for dogs but are not ideal.

Clues on the label: “Sugar Free” or “Natural sweetener” may be a clue that the peanut butter is sweetened with xylitol, which may be labeled as “sugar alcohol,” wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract in the nutrition facts of the ingredient label. Only choose unsweetened peanut butters for your dog.

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Other Ingredients in Peanut Butter to Watch Out For

Grocery store staples like Jif, Skippy, Smuckers, and Peter Pan are all xylitol-free, but they can contain sugar, preservatives, and other unhealthy ingredients for your dog.

The following common peanut butter brands contain added transfats, sweeteners, and other unnecessary ingredients. Pet owners should not share these peanut butters with their dog.

• Jif peanut butter — (contains sugar, peanut oil, hydrogenated vegetable oil, salt, mono and diglycerides, cooking molasses, vegetable oil)
• Skippy peanut butter — (sugar, hydrogenated vegetable oil (cottonseed, soybean and rapeseed oil) and salt)
• Peter Pan brand PB — (large amount of  sugar added + hydrogenated oil)
• Amazon brand Happy Belly PB  — (sugar, hydrogenated vegetable oil (rapeseed, cottonseed, and soybean) and salt

In short, a peanut butter being xylitol-free doesn’t always mean it’s okay for your dog. Some peanut butters labeled as “natural,” like Skippy Natural or Jif Natural peanut butter spread, are xylitol-free but not recommended for dogs due to additives like syrups and trans fats.

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Which Brands of Peanut Butter Are Safe For Your Dog

When choosing peanut butter for dogs, it’s essential to choose an option that does not contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Stick to natural peanut butters that contain just peanuts. Better for you and better for your dog!

Here are some safe choices:

1. Natural Peanut Butters: Look for brands that contain only peanuts and maybe a little salt.
2. Unsweetened: Avoid any peanut butter with added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
3. Organic Options: These often have fewer additives and preservatives. But check the ingredients to make sure it’s unsweetened/contains no added oils.

Always introduce new foods gradually and in moderation.

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How to Make Safe Homemade Peanut Butter for Your Dog

Making homemade peanut butter for your dog is simple and safe! Here’s a quick recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted peanuts (roasted or raw, but not seasoned)
• Optional: a small amount of coconut oil for creaminess

Instructions:

1. Blend the Peanuts: Place the peanuts in a food processor. Blend on high until smooth. This can take a few minutes, so be patient and scrape down the sides as needed.
2. Add Coconut Oil (Optional): If you want a creamier texture, add a teaspoon of coconut oil and blend again until mixed.
3. Store: Transfer the peanut butter to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Serving:

• Serve a small amount to your dog as a treat or use it in puzzle toys. Just be mindful of portion

What Happens if My Dog Eats Peanut Butter With Xylitol in It?