Owning a pet dog requires some work and a good amount of knowledge about what your dog can or cannot consume. One of the foods is peanuts, as we consume them as humans regularly. Peanut is a healthy nut, which provides a good amount of fats and protein with each serving. So now the main question is, can dogs eat peanuts or not? Let’s find out.
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Can Dogs Eat Peanuts?
Dogs can eat peanuts, but there is a specific type of peanuts you should avoid feeding your dogs, and that would be salted peanuts. Most dogs are smaller than humans in terms of body mass, which is why you must monitor the amount of sodium you feed your dog. A couple of salted peanuts here and there would not be an issue, but feeding them a bowl full of salted peanuts can exceed the daily requirement of sodium your dog may need. Make sure to stick with peanuts that are roasted or boiled and contain no sodium, as you can feed them those types of peanuts safely and without any repercussions.
Health Benefits Of Peanuts?
Peanuts are a very healthy source of healthy fats, alongside a good amount of vitamin B-6 and Vitamin E, which will help your dog’s immune system and help them have a smoother coat. Peanuts are also a great source of protein, and you can feed your dogs peanuts to supplement their daily requirement for protein. However, make sure to stick with higher quality peanuts when feeding your dogs peanuts, as they are not as good at digesting peanuts are humans are.
How To Feed Your Dog Peanuts
The key is moderation; make sure to feed your dogs peanuts sparingly as too many peanuts can have some side effects. We recommend starting with a few peanuts couple of times a week and then slowly increasing the number of peanuts based on how they react. Depending on the size of your dog, some may be able to eat more peanuts than other dogs. But the key is to start with a couple of peanuts every other day and then slowly increase the amount.
Why Peanuts Can Be Bad For Dogs
Peanuts are very hard to digest, so if dogs overeat peanuts, they can have digestive issues, or worse, diarrhea. Make sure to remove the shells from the peanuts and any other peanut shell pieces, as they can be bad for your dog and cause choking. Always stick with peanuts that are non-flavored, as some flavored peanuts can be hazardous to your dogs and can cause adverse reactions. The best bet is to feed your dogs plain and high-quality peanuts constantly.
What Foods Can You Give Instead Of Peanuts
If you are still not ready to feed your dog peanuts, then you can stick with dog treats that may contain traces of peanuts. That way, you can introduce your dog to peanuts without worrying about any side effects. Also, consider peanut butter, cashew, or walnuts as potential substitutes.
Are Dogs Allergic To Peanuts?
Keep in mind; some dogs can be allergic to peanuts. Therefore, ensure not to feed your dog any foods containing peanuts if your dog is allergic to peanuts. If your dog is allergic to peanuts, you will notice redness, bald patches, and many more side effects. If you are concerned about your dog having a peanut allergy, then it’s best not to feed your dog peanuts altogether, as there are other ways to get healthy fats and protein in their diet.
What If Your Dog Eats Peanuts?
There is nothing to worry about if your dog eats peanuts unless your dog is allergic. However, if your dog is allergic to peanuts and you notice side effects, then make sure to take your dog to the vet before there are any more side effects. On the other hand, if your dog is not allergic to peanuts and consumes many peanuts in one sitting, your dog will experience diarrhea. Take your dog to a safe location where he can excrete and if the symptoms get worse, take your dog to a vet.
Can Dogs Eat Peanuts – Our Final Verdict!
Peanuts are generally safe for dogs and are a good source of protein. Although the fats found in peanuts are generally good for your dog, peanuts are still high in fat. For this reason, it is best to feed it in moderation. Be aware, peanuts can harbor aflatoxins, which are a highly toxic mold that can lead to liver disease and cancer in dogs. Organic peanuts are preferred because they are less problematic in terms of mold.
