January 24th is Peanut Butter Appreciation Day! We’re definitely on board with that one. Peanut butter is a very popular snack among our canine patients. It’s also an ingredient in many different dog treats. A Norwalk, CA vet offers some advice on giving your pooch peanut butter in this article.

Benefits

There are some benefits to giving Fido peanut butter. For one thing, it’s quite healthy: it’s packed with protein, and is also rich in niacin and vitamins B and E. Plus, it contains healthy fats, which are essential for helping your furry pal’s body function properly. Peanut butter can also be a great reward when training your four-legged friend. Smear a little bit on Fido’s snack, or put some in a Kong toy or Nylabone for him. You can also add some to pill pockets to help trick him into taking his medicine. Some people even use it as a distraction when clipping their pets’ nails!

How Much Is Too Much?

If you were to ask Fido this question, he’d probably insist that there is just no such thing as too much peanut butter. While we’re tempted to agree, that actually isn’t the case. Peanut butter has a lot of natural fat and protein. That high calorie count can contribute to doggy obesity, which is definitely not good for your canine friend. There’s also a risk of pancreatitis. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Xylitol

Peanut butter should be safe, but you do have to pay attention to the ingredients. Many brands contain xylitol, which is a sugar substitute often used in things like baked goods, gum, and candies. It can cause insulin spikes, which are followed by blood sugar crashes. These can be very dangerous for dogs, and can even be life-threatening. Always check the label before sharing your PB with Fido. It’s also a good idea to know the warning signs to look for. These include stumbling, dizziness, weakness, collapse, and seizures. Call your vet immediately if you notice any of these things.

Making Treats

Do you like baking? Why not make your canine companion some snacks? You’ll find plenty of recipes online! These also are good gift options for Fido’s buddies. Just be sure to only use ingredients that are safe for dogs. Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Norwalk, CA animal clinic, today!