Can Dogs Eat Peanuts? Here’s Everything You Need To Know!

Do you have a pet dog you love more than anyone else in the world? Dogs are indeed our best friends. We would give our pet dogs the world if we could - their loyalty and love make our day. 

But, as a dog parent, it is crucial to give your fur baby healthy food and keep tabs on their diet. Foods that should be avoided include pistachios, pecans, macadamia and salted nuts. 

Indians often snack on peanuts at any time of the day. So, it is only fair to wonder, can dogs eat peanuts too? The answer to this question would be, fortunately, yes! Your dog can eat peanuts, and they are not considered toxic for them. 

However, there are some conditions. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Are Peanuts Good?

Peanuts are increasingly popular as a part of a healthy diet. But does the same apply to dogs? And what about other peanut products like peanut butter?

Peanuts are nuts rich in natural fatty acids and antioxidants. They are the only nuts that grow under the ground and have immense health benefits for humans and dogs alike. 

For instance, peanuts help prevent cell damage and heart problems in humans. This removes bad cholesterol like LDL cholesterol plaque in the arteries.

Are Peanuts Suitable For Dogs?

Yes. Peanuts are suitable for dogs. 

It is beneficial for puppies, and older dogs as peanuts could help prevent muscle decline and other symptoms associated with old age.

Things to watch out for:

1. Quantity of peanuts should be in control - Despite the benefits, peanuts do have high calorific content. As a result, excessive consumption can lead to rapid weight gain or obesity. It can also lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and diseases like pancreatitis, which can be very painful and fatal. 
2. Remove peanut shells before giving them to your dog – It is essential to remove the peanut shells as they can cause gastrointestinal or oral discomfort in your canine friend. 
3. Serve them raw - Ideally, give your fur babies raw peanuts as they retain the most nutrients. Oven-roasted peanuts with no salt or sugar are also safe for your dog. Avoid fried, salted or caramelised peanuts altogether. This keeps the sodium levels in check.

What Is A Good Amount Of Peanuts For Dogs?

You can offer a small portion of unsalted raw peanuts as a reward during training or when giving positive reinforcement. In volume, you can provide about ten peanuts to large dogs, 5 to medium dogs, and 2 to small dogs, along with moderating consumption to about 2 to 3 times a week. 

Once training is finished, you can roughly calculate the calories consumed and remove them from the rest of the diet.

Can Dogs Eat Peanut Butter?

Most of the time, peanut butter is safe for your dog, except if your dog happens to be allergic to peanut butter or if it contains Xylitol. 

Be wary of this ingredient as Xylitol is poisonous to your dog. Remember to check the ingredients on the label of the peanut packet before feeding it to your dog. Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly found in diabetic-friendly foods like sugar-free gum, candies, drinks, etc.

You can also use peanut butter in our homemade recipes for your furry babies, like making birthday cakes or homemade cupcakes. 

HUFT Tip: Peanut butter is a great way to hide medication. It is an excellent way to give your dog medicine if needs be.

It is a great cover for any strong-smelling medication that may be important for your dog. The sweet and creamy taste and texture of peanut butter reduce the dog’s ability to identify any foreign substance like a pill mixed in it. 

This also is a cause of worry because your dog may not be careful enough and can swallow small items if they fall into their bowl by mistake. Allow your dog to lick the peanut butter off a big spoon. 

Cashews have the same guidelines as peanuts for your dog’s consumption. Small quantities of raw cashews are nutritional for your dog.

Other Nuts That Are Very Harmful To Your Dog

As mentioned earlier, nuts like pistachios, macadamia, hickory, and pecans are not recommended for your dogs. All these nuts can wreak havoc on your dog's digestive system and are highly toxic.