Peanut Butter: It’s Ok For Dogs, But Feed In Moderation

  Posted on November 3, 2020  by Joy of Living  No comments

YES! Even vets recommend it, especially when you need to hide a pill in something tasty. Gourmet doggy bakeries make all kinds of incredible dog cookies using peanut butter, not to mention many beautiful cakes for dogs feature it in their recipes.

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Some people are concerned about giving their dogs peanut butter. It may be because there are some nuts that are dangerous for dogs to ingest. Macadamia nuts, in particular, are bad for dogs.

However, peanuts are not actually nuts at all. They are a legume. This makes them a member of the humble pea family. Instead of being a nut they are related to other legumes such as alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lentils, carob, and soy.

This treat is fine for your dog, but feed it in moderation. You may have preferences about the kind you give your dog. Some people prefer to feed organic peanut butter. It has fewer trans fats than regular peanut butter and it’s healthier for your dog.

Dogs don’t care what kind of peanut butter you buy, they just love it! Buy a variety without salt or sugar added, as neither of these is good for dogs.

For a treat, try putting some inside a Kong toy and freezing it. You can leave the toy with your dog when your dog has to stay home. This kind of treat can amuse a dog for a long time as he works to get the yummy stuff out.

Need to give your dog a pill and he doesn’t like to take them? Put a small dab of peanut butter on a spoon, then stick the pill in it (make sure it’s covered by the peanut butter so the dog doesn’t see it. Most dogs are so focused on licking the peanut butter, they don’t notice the pill.

It is quite high in calories, so feed to your dog sparingly. The same is true with any snack that you over feed. Use your best judgment when it comes to giving snacks and treats.

Like to make treats for your dog? Here’s a recipe I’ve made several times for my dogs and they LOVE them!

Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup brown rice flour

2 cups rolled oats (not instant oatmeal)

1/3 cup, plus 4 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce

1 cup peanut butter (unsalted and unsweetened.  I like Trader Joe’s brand for this)

1/4 cup honey

1/8 cup water

Directions: Preheat oven to 350. Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. When thoroughly mixed, roll into individual 1 inch balls.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Since they don’t spread during baking, they can be placed pretty close together. Once you’ve used all the batter, use a fork to flatten cookies.

Bake 18-22 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Cool completely on wire rack.

Since these contain no preservatives, keep refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-5 days, or freeze for up to one month

Occasionally indulge your dog’s craving, he’ll love you for it! Bon appetit!