Dogs love eating peanut butter. We love watching our dogs eat peanut butter. But what seems like a harmless and rewarding activity for our dogs could in fact be deadly. While most peanut butters are perfectly fine for dogs in moderation, there are a few that are beyond harmful - containing one of the moist toxic ingredients for canines: Xylitol.
What is the Secret Ingredient in Peanut Butter That Harms Dogs?
Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in many of our foods. It is also becoming increasingly popular because it is inexpensive and sugar free. But just because it’s safe for humans to consume, doesn’t mean the same is true for dogs.
The sweetener, xylitol, has accidentally poisoned thousands of dogs each year. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, just 1.37 grams of xylitol can cause your dog disorientation, fainting, seizures, and other health concerns.
This ingredient is actually more harmful than chocolate for dogs. It takes 150 grams of dark chocolate to trigger the same symptoms in dogs caused by only 6.8 grams of xylitol.
The chemical triggers a sharp decrease in your dog’s blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. Xylitol can also destroy your dog’s liver cells which will lead to several other health issues. You are likely to witness the onset of symptoms 15-30 minutes after consumption.
If you suspect your dog has eaten xylitol, don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian.
Peanut Butters Containing Xylitol
It is important to note these brands put xylitol in their peanut butter:
- Nuts N’ More
- P28 Foods
- Go Nutz
- Krush Nutrition
You’ll also want to check every label, especially of local brands (but also of national brands as well). Your favorite peanut butter could have xylitol, and if you give it to your dog you could quickly make them very sick.
Peanut Butters Specifically Catered to Dogs
Human peanut butter isn’t necessarily meant for dogs anyway, even without xylitol. However, there are several peanut butter brands in the market that are specifically formulated for dogs.
- Pooch Creamery Peanut Butter
- Nature’s Logic Canine Peanut Butter
- Poochie Butter Peanut Butter
- Green Coast Pawnut Butter
Allow your dog to enjoy peanut butter as a reward, but keep in mind that moderation is key for everything.
Avoid Accidentally Poisoning Your Dog
It is important to read the brands of the nut butters you are buying because you never know if the company snuck in xylitol to its ingredient list. Brands are not warning customers of the dangers that this chemical poses, so it is up to you, as a dog owner, to keep your pet safe.
