Why Do Dogs Love Peanut Butter?

Why Do Dogs Love Peanut Butter? It is widely known that many dogs enjoy having peanut butter.

We find it in dog food recipes as well as in toys that have been stuffed with various treats.

They are always conquered by the smoothness and yummy taste from it. It is very enjoyable to watch, as well, for dog owners and lovers.

Well, then what makes dogs go head over heels for peanut butter? And this is where the why comes in so that we can be better-placement in choosing the right type of food for our dogs.

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Why do dogs love peanut butter so much?

There is no doubt that peanut butter is a most-favored ingredient not only by many people but also by dogs because of its constituents. undefined

Fat: High fat foods are preferred by dogs because they are a rich source of energy nutrients and are most easily utilizable. The fat content in peanut butter usually makes it attractive to the canine pal, promoting their natural instincts.
Protein: Protein is also needed by dogs so that they can be able to grow strong muscles and remain healthy all the time since they are omnivores. Peanut butter is nutritions as well as tasty food since it also contains protein in reasonable proportion.
Salt: Some manufacturers add salt to their products as it has been known to impart a great taste to peanuts. Besides, peanut butter has a salty taste that dogs are always keen on having more of.
Sugar: However, sugar isn’t a major ingredient in most peanut butters, although, some do contain added sugars, which would make the peanut butter taste a little sweet. Sweet is preferred by both man and the dog that could make this treat more appealing to the dog in particular.

Putting it all together results in a flavor that many dogs simply cannot resist, and it caters to their craving and nutritional intake needs .

Is Peanut Butter Good for Dogs?

While peanut butter can be a delightful treat for dogs, it is essential to consider its nutritional benefits and the importance of moderation:

Fiber for Digestion: Dietary fiber is also present in peanut butter and this is useful in the enhancement of digestion and healthy bowel movement. Fiber aids in digestion and getting consistent bowel movements and can participate in the general health of the digestive system.
Protein for Muscle Development and Immune Function: Muscle building and the repair process in muscles enjoys the support from this nutrient found in peanut butter while the immune system also benefits. This action is very crucial especially for the active breed as well as those in their growing age.
Healthy Fats for Skin, Coat, and Energy: Peanut butter is rich in healthy fats that are essential in providing a shiny coat, and healthy skin. They also offer a supply of energy, something that is useful for active breeds of the dog.
Vitamins and Minerals for Overall Wellbeing: The product also contains some vitamins and minerals that are essential to the health of a dog these are vitamin E, magnesium and potassium.

Yes, peanut butter is good breakfast food, yet should not be fed too much. It contains a lot of calories so head’s up! Weight gain could be as a result of the dog feasting, and that would not be good for the health of the poor animal.

Now, as a pet owner, remember: a cookie that has peanut butter in it is okay but should not be taken often. The daily menu? Uh-uh, that is not advisable or correct.

Plus, watch the label. Do not opt for peanut butter that comes with the bad stuff included. For instance, xylitol is a no-no for dogs; it’s poisonous.

Choosing a Dog-Safe Peanut Butter

In choosing the peanut butter to be given to your dog, it is will and important to check the safety and quality of the peanut butter. Here are some tips:

Avoid Xylitol: Of course, this list should include xylitol since it is a common sugar substitute which is deadly poisonous for dogs. Tremendous dangers can result from using even a little of this substance for it can cause hypoglycemia, seizures and liver failure.
No Excess Sugar or Salt: Choose a natural peanut butter whose list of ingredients includes peanuts, and zero other items. These are unhealthy for your dog and provide no nutritional value to your dog whatever that is.
Simple Ingredients: It is for this reason that the best peanut butter for dogs should comprise a low quantity and quality of ingredients; in this case, peanuts. Do not take any manufactures’ products containing hydrogenated oils, preservatives, or artificial flavors.

How Much Peanut Butter Can a Dog Have?

The intake of peanut butter should always be in moderation since it is rich in fats.

Here are some general guidelines for serving sizes:

Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs): It implies that a person should consume between 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of peanut butter every day.
Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 1 tsp to 1 tbsp of peanut butter a day.
Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 1 tablespoon to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter per day.

Chocolate, peanuts, peanut butter and etc are foods that should not exceed one tenth or 10% of the recommended daily calorie intake for the pet.

For instance, if the dog’s total daily ration is 600 calories, it means they can take not more than 60 calories from treats.

For example, if your dog’s daily caloric allowance is 600 calories, you can safely give them about 60 calories worth of treats, which is roughly equivalent to 1 tablespoon of peanut butter.

Fun Ways to Serve Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various fun ways:

KONG Toy Filler: Another idea is to freeze peanut butter in a KONG toy for your dog to play with. If you wish to have a longer duration of service with this treat, then you can freeze it.
Lick Mats: To begin the process, the lick mat should be layered with a thin peanut butter. This offer mental exercise because while licking the meat off, your dog has to think.
Training Treats: To help with teaching session it is recommended that peanut butter be used as one of the desired outcomes. It can encourage your dog to easily follow new commands that it is trained to perform.

Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Making homemade peanut butter treats is a great way to ensure your dog gets a healthy snack. Here are a couple of simple recipes:

Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Biscuits

Ingredients:

1 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1 ripe banana, mashed
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/4 cup water (as needed)

Instructions:

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl which should contain sour cream and mashed bananas, add the peanut butter and blend until it combines properly.
Then slowly incorporate the flour, this must be done until a tacky dough is formed. Pour a sufficient amount of water to make the mixture sufficiently workable.
After making the dough ‘‘rest’’, start to spell shapes you want using the cookie cutters onto the dough and cut.
Put it in a baking pan and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until turns golden brown.
Let cool before serving.

Peanut Butter Pumpkin Dog Treats

Ingredients:

1 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free)
1 cup canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 egg

Instructions:

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Gradually, stir in pumpkin and egg to the peanut butter mixture in the bowl while whisking thoroughly.
To this mixture, gradually stir in the flour until you get a dough.
Turn out the dough and pick desired shapes to paste.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are firm to the middle and the crust is golden brown.
This must be allowed to cool before being served.

Peanut Butter Alternatives for Dogs

If you’re looking for alternatives to peanut butter, consider the following options:If you’re looking for alternatives to peanut butter, consider the following options:

Almond Butter: Similar in terms of the taste and consistency of the food and it should be without sweetness and xylitol.
Cashew Butter: Similar to peanut butter, any other nut butter can be okay for dogs if not processed with unhealthy ingredients.
Sunflower Seed Butter: ideal for pets that have nut intolerances but ensure that no sugars and salts are included in the processing of the product.
Coconut Butter: Safe for dogs as they love chewing on them but should be also given sparingly since it is a fatty food.

Peanut Butter Dog Allergy Symptoms

However, peanut butter is nutritious but it should be observed that there are some dogs that are allergic to it.

Symptoms of a peanut allergy can include:

Itching or hives
Gastrointestinal upset particularly vomiting or diarrhea.
Swelling specifically to the face
Shortness of breath (when the condition has advanced to the later stage).

Therefore, if your dog has any of such symptoms after you have introduced peanut butter in his diet you should contact your vet.

Also Read: Why Do Dogs Like Tug of War? Is it safe for them?

Also Read: Golden Mountain Dog: A Gentle Giant with a Heart of Gold

Conclusion

Peanut butter spells delicious for dogs; it’s a surefire delight. It uplifts their mood. It’s favored by big and small dogs for its yumminess and creamy touch.

Yet, you must be careful. Xylitol-free peanut butter is a safe bet. Monitor how much they eat. Check them for allergies.

Treat your pooch to peanut butter occasionally; it can boost their enjoyment and health. Worried? Get in touch with your vet for expert guidance. Have fun treating!

Sources:
Holisticvetblend.com
Pawcbd.com
Nativepet.com
Rover.com