Five reasons why peanut butter is so good for dogs
#1 Peanut butter is high in protein
Protein is an essential part of your dog's diet, and most peanut butter contains around 25% protein, which is high for plant-based food.
Why is protein important for your dog’s health? Protein provides your dog with amino acids that support its immune system, repair and maintain cells, and assist with making hormones, enzymes, and antibodies.
#2 Peanut butter is high in fibre
Fibre plays an important role in regulating your dog's digestive tract. As fibre breaks down into fatty acids, it helps to strengthen the colon or prevent bad bacteria from forming. Fibre also reduces the chances of diarrhoea or constipation.
#3 Peanut butter is high in healthy fatty acids
Peanut contains high amounts of healthy fats. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, contain omega-6, which promotes growth, immunity, healthy skin, and more. It is important to note, however, that healthy fats are still high in calories and need to be used in moderation.
#4 Peanut butter is high in vitamins
Peanut butter is a good source of vitamin E, which plays an important role in maintaining healthy muscles, eyes, and skin. It also helps to promote healthy cell growth and regulate fat metabolism. Studies have also linked vitamin E as a potential arthritis prevention tool.
Peanut butter is also rich in B vitamins, like biotin (B7), niacin (B3), and folic acid (B9).
- Biotin helps to maintain a dog’s healthy skin, coat, and nails.
- Niacin assists the metabolism of fatty acids, boosts brain function and acts as a catalyst for hormone production.
- Folic acid promotes healthy fetal development and assists red blood cell production and DNA synthesis.
#5 Peanut butter is high in essential minerals
Peanut butter contains magnesium which supports the production of energy at the cellular level. Magnesium also helps with oxidative stress, reducing the impact of free radicals.
Manganese, which dogs use to produce energy and metabolize proteins and carbs, and phosphorus, which works in conjunction with calcium to improve bone and teeth strength is also present in peanut butter.
Are there any reasons why peanut is not good for dogs?
If your dog is nutty about peanut butter, here are some things to watch out for:
- Avoid peanut that contains xylitol. Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can be life-threatening within a few hours of ingestion.
- Avoid peanut butter with added sugar as it can promote obesity and diabetes.
- Avoid peanut butter with harmful additives and go all-natural instead.
- Avoid peanut butter as a treat if your dog suffers from kidney diseases, obesity, or has special dietary requirements
- Avoid overindulgence. Too much peanut butter can lead to health conditions like pancreatitis. As a good rule of thumb, treats should only make up 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
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