Why Do Dogs Love Peanut Butter? A Curious Canine Obsess

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Peanut butter holds a very high status in the hearts of dog owners abroad. Just how high? Many owners consider it to be "the one thing that can drive a dog wild." Indeed, peanut butter is a fantastic treat for dogs, offering not just a delightful taste but also a tantalizing aftertaste, and it's packed with nutritional benefits.

Moreover, it can be spread on various toys, sending dogs into a frenzy of excitement.

But here's the question: Can dogs eat it without any worries?

Of course not. While peanut butter is great, like all treats, it's essential to adhere to the famous 10% rule: the amount of treats a dog consumes daily should not exceed 10% of their total daily food intake.

This sauce is rich in protein, fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin, making it incredibly beneficial for dogs as long as it's consumed in moderation.

However, if consumed excessively, the high fat content in peanut butter can lead to health issues such as pancreatitis and obesity in dogs.

Additionally, the sodium content in many commercial peanut butters can also impact a dog's health. Many manufacturers are now using xylitol to sweeten peanut butter, which can be harmful to dogs. If you must choose commercial peanut butter, be sure to check for the presence of xylitol.

So, is homemade a better option?

Absolutely. The two key tools for making homemade peanut butter are a microwave (or an oven) and a blender (or food processor).

1. Spread the peanuts evenly on a plate and heat them until they are evenly toasted. If you don't have a microwave or an oven, a regular frying pan will do, but make sure to stir frequently to ensure each peanut is toasted.

2. Once the peanuts reach the point where their skins can be easily peeled off with a squeeze, turn off the heat and proceed to the next step.

3. Allow the peanuts to cool naturally before peeling them. The easiest way to do this is to place the peanuts in a plastic bag and rub them, which will prevent the skins from getting everywhere.

4. Put the peeled peanuts into the blender, add a little honey or condensed milk, and start blending. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the peanut butter but also ensure that the final product is not too thick.

Tips: You don't need to make a lot of peanut butter, as the process is simple, allowing you to make and eat it as needed. Remember to store the finished product in a glass container.