National Peanut Butter Day: A Dog’s Favourite Treat, But is it Safe?

| January 23, 2025

January 24 is National Peanut Butter Day, a perfect opportunity to treat our furry friends to one of their all-time favourite snacks. Dogs are known to go wild for peanut butter, but while it’s a tasty treat, pet parents must know that not all peanut butters are safe for dogs. 

Why Some Peanut Butters Aren’t Safe for Dogs

Not all peanut butters are created equal when it comes to your dog’s health. Many peanut butter brands contain ingredients that can be harmful—or even deadly—to pets. One of the most dangerous additives is xylitol, a sugar substitute commonly found in sugar-free products. While xylitol is safe for humans, it can cause a rapid insulin release in dogs, leading to life-threatening low blood sugar and even liver failure. 

Aside from xylitol, some peanut butters are high in added sugars, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues in pets if consumed regularly. 

Safe Peanut Butter Options for Your Dog

To ensure your dog can celebrate National Peanut Butter Day safely, here are a few tips for choosing the right peanut butter: 

  • Check the label for xylitol: Always read the ingredients list and avoid any product that contains xylitol. This is the most important step when picking a peanut butter for your dog. 
  • Go for unsalted or low-sodium: Dogs don’t need the extra sodium, and too much salt can lead to dehydration and other health issues. 
  • Opt for peanut butters with no added sugar: Look for peanut butters that contain only one ingredient: peanuts. Some may also have a little added oil, which is generally safe, but try to avoid peanut butters with excessive sweeteners or additives. 
  • Moderation is key: Even with safe peanut butter, it’s important to feed your dog in moderation. Peanut butter is high in fat and calories, so it should only be given as an occasional treat. 

Peanut Butter Alternatives: Pre-made Dog Treats

If you’re unsure about what kind of human peanut butter is safe to share with your dog, there are plenty of specially formulated peanut butter dog treats available. These treats are designed to be safe for dogs, and many of them come in convenient, bite-sized portions that are perfect for a special occasion like National Peanut Butter Day! Here are a few of our favourites: 

Can Other Pets Celebrate National Peanut Butter Day?

While dogs are the main peanut butter fans, you might be wondering if other pets—like cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, and turtles—can join in the celebration. Unfortunately, peanut butter isn’t safe for most of these animals. 

Cats: While some cats might be interested in peanut butter, it’s not recommended. Peanut butter is high in fat, and cats don’t have a digestive system suited to handle it. Plus, many peanut butters contain ingredients that can upset a cat’s stomach. 

Rabbits and Guinea Pigs: Peanut butter is far too rich for the delicate digestive systems of rabbits and guinea pigs. It’s best to stick to fresh hay, vegetables, and species-appropriate treats for these small animals. 

Reptiles and Turtles: Peanut butter doesn’t belong in the diets of reptiles and turtles either. They require very specific diets based on their species, and peanut butter can cause serious digestive issues. 

While dogs are the stars of National Peanut Butter Day, it’s important to remember that safety comes first. Always double-check your ingredients or opt for peanut butter dog treats to ensure your pup can indulge in the fun without any health risks. And if you have other pets, make sure to celebrate with treats designed specifically for their needs. 

Happy National Peanut Butter Day to all the peanut butter-loving dogs out there! 


Bonus Winter Training Tip: Peanut Butter Treat Hack

Tired of freezing fingers when rewarding your dog during winter walks? Try this clever trick! Grab a small silicone travel shampoo bottle and fill it with peanut butter. To make it easier to squeeze out, whisk in a little warm water to thin it out before filling the bottle. It works like magic! Now you can mark and reward your dog’s good behaviour without ever needing to take off your gloves.