Peanut butter has very quickly become one of the most popular dog treats. It’s being spooned into Kongs, smeared on the side of the bathtub during bath time, used to hide pills, and is even listed as a key ingredient in most doggy biscuits. As the popularity of peanut butter amongst dog owners has grown, new doggy specific peanut butter has begun to appear on pet store shelves - but does your dog need dog-specific peanut butter? 

Is Peanut Butter Good For Dogs

Before we go any further, we want to address the elephant in the room - is peanut butter even good for dogs?

Peanut butter, when it’s made solely from peanuts, can be a great high-value reward. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, but we can’t overlook the fact that it’s also high in calories. For this reason, peanut butter is best used as an occasional high-value reward rather than a regular daily dog treat; otherwise, you risk overfeeding your dog and causing weight gain. 

What About Peanut Allergies?

Like humans, some dogs are allergic to peanuts and should never be fed peanut butter. If you’re feeding peanut butter to your dog for the first time, then only give them a very small amount and keep a close eye on them in case they develop peanut allergy symptoms such as itching of their face or coughing. If they haven’t developed any of these symptoms after 30 minutes, then they are likely not a peanut allergy sufferer. 

What About Other Nut Butters?

While peanut butter is a classic favorite among dogs, there are several other safe nut butter options that can offer a delightful twist to your furry friend's treat time. Almond butter, cashew butter, and sunflower seed butter are popular choices that your dog might be a fan of. When selecting these alternatives, it's crucial to ensure they are unsalted and free from additives like xylitol, which can be harmful to dogs. Almond butter is a good source of vitamin E, while cashew butter is rich in healthy fats. Sunflower seed butter, a great option for dogs with nut allergies, boasts a mild flavor and is loaded with essential nutrients. As with any treat, moderation is key, and it's advisable to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that the chosen nut butter aligns with your dog's

Is There A Difference Between Doggy Peanut Butter And Normal Peanut Butter?

The real difference between doggy peanut butter and many human brands of peanut butter isn’t the ingredients added to it, but what isn’t. While many human peanut butter recipes contain extra salt, sugar, oils, or flavorings, dog peanut butter tends to only contain peanuts. So if you’re shopping for peanut butter for your dog, read the back of the jar and take a look at the ingredients label before making your decision. If the pot contains extra sugar or salt, then you may want to make a different choice. 

The Healthiest Peanut Butter For Dogs

As with most pet treats, the healthiest peanut butter for your dog will always be the one you make yourself. By making your own peanut butter, you remain in control of the ingredients and can ensure there’s no sneaky added salt, sugar, or fat. Another bonus of making your own peanut butter is that you can add in additional dog-friendly healthy ingredients like flax seeds or chia seeds. 

How To Make Your Own Dog Peanut Butter

Creating a special peanut butter treat for your furry friend is a breeze with this simple and wholesome recipe. Your pup will love the nutty goodness, and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what's going into their favorite treat. Here's how to make doggy peanut butter with the goodness of chia seeds:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups raw peanuts
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

1. Gather Your Ingredients: Ensure you have unsalted roasted peanuts and chia seeds on hand. These simple, natural ingredients will provide your dog with a tasty and nutritious treat.

2. Roast the Peanuts (Optional): If your peanuts aren't already roasted, you can roast them for enhanced flavor. Spread the peanuts on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Allow them to cool before proceeding.

3. Blend the Peanuts: Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor or high-powered blender. Blend on high until the peanuts start breaking down and releasing their natural oils. This process may take a few minutes, and you'll witness the transition from chopped peanuts to a coarse meal and finally to a smooth buttery consistency.

4. Add Chia Seeds: Once the peanuts have turned into a creamy consistency, add the chia seeds to the blender. Blend for an additional minute or until the chia seeds are well incorporated into the peanut butter.

5. Check the Consistency: Assess the texture of the peanut butter. If it's too thick, you can add a touch of water to achieve your desired consistency. Blend again briefly to combine.

6. Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the homemade doggy peanut butter to a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Make sure to give it a good stir before each use, as natural nut butters may separate over time.

7. Treat Your Pup: Now that you have your homemade doggy peanut butter with chia seeds, treat your pup to a dollop on their favorite toy or as a special reward during training sessions. They'll surely appreciate the delicious and healthy treat made with love!

Remember to check with your veterinarian if your dog has specific dietary concerns or allergies before introducing new treats into their diet. Enjoy making this simple and nutritious homemade peanut butter for your canine companion! If you enjoyed making this recipe, check out our separate blog dedicated to homemade dog treat recipes!