Peanuts are a yummy snack to munch on, whether you’re refueling during a hike or just relaxing at home. And that’s probably why so many dog owners wonder, “can dogs eat peanuts?”. After all, peanuts are a natural, wholesome ingredient known for their many health benefits. But so is dark chocolate, and we all know that’s NOT good for dogs…
In this article, we’ll do our best to set the record straight: can a dog eat peanuts? We’ll fill you in on important health and safety info about this food. Plus, we’ll provide you with some delicious snack recommendations. Without further ado, let’s get to it!
Can a Dog Eat Peanuts?
If you’re talking about feeding your dog individual peanuts in their solid form, the answer is no: you should probably refrain from doing this just to be safe. Why? Here are a few of the biggest reasons why peanuts are typically a no-no for canine consumption.
Choking
The small size of peanuts can pose a choking hazard for our canine companions. If you were giving peanuts to a child, you could warn them to chew before swallowing. But with dogs, they often get excited and swallow the peanut whole – which is never a good thing. Under absolutely no circumstances should you feed your dog a peanut with the shell still attached – including boiled peanuts. This increases their risk of choking and can cause digestive issues. If you want to let your dog partake in some peanut eating, consider crushing up the nuts so they can lick up the powder.
And what about almonds – can dogs eat them?
Allergies
You probably know someone who is allergic to nuts. But you might be surprised to learn that dogs can suffer from similar allergic issues! They’re not that common, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Signs of a peanut allergy in dogs include breathing issues, coughing, irritated skin, and vomiting. If you notice any of these signs after your dog ingests peanut ingredients, be sure to take them to a veterinarian immediately.
Toxic Additives
Peanuts themselves are not toxic to dogs. However, lots of peanut snacks these days feature artificial sweeteners, added flavors, or tons of salt. All of these ingredients can be extremely harmful to pups. Ingesting these substances can lead to drops in blood sugar, sodium ion poisoning, and even seizures. Common peanut coatings such as chocolate and xylitol are particularly toxic for dogs. The high-fat content in peanuts can also lead to a dog developing pancreatitis. And as with any fatty food, feeding peanuts to your dog too often can cause obesity.
With all these potential side effects and risks, it’s usually best to steer clear of peanuts for your dog. Doing so will help you avoid stressful and pricey trips to the vet. If your dog happens to nibble up a peanut or two that you dropped on the floor, it’s probably no cause for concern. Just be sure to monitor them for signs of choking or allergic reactions. And always talk to your vet before attempting to introduce a new human food to your dog. But for regular consumption, there are better ways to incorporate rich, nutty flavors into your dog’s diet!
Can dogs eat eggs? Find out here.
How to Let Your Dog Enjoy Peanut Flavors
You might not be able to let Fido chow down on bunches of tiny peanuts. But don’t give up on the ingredient of peanuts altogether! There’s another way you may be able to introduce this nutritious item into your dog’s diet: peanut butter! This creamy or crunchy spread is more than just a tasty treat. Both humans and dogs can benefit from the Vitamins E and B6, protein, and niacin contained in this food. Peanut butter also contains healthy fats. As long as it doesn’t contain xylitol or added sugars and salts, you’re likely good to go. However, the best way for dogs to enjoy peanut butter is through treats specifically made with dog diets in mind. Our Peanut Butter Coated Sweet Potato Fries are a great option. They give your dog the nutrients real PB is known for, such as folate, iron, copper, and calcium. But all this healthy goodness is contained in a simple treat that dogs can chow down on.
So now you know. But what about peanut butter? Why Do Dogs Love Peanut Butter? And can dogs eat pork bones?
