Why
Peanut butter gives protein, healthy fats and vitamins. The danger is xylitol, a sweetener in some brands that is toxic to dogs.
How to serve peanut butter
- Check the label for xylitol every time.
- Choose raw or unsalted peanut butter and use a thin smear.
Watch out for
- Xylitol can cause low blood sugar and liver damage.
- It is calorie dense: one tablespoon is about 94 kcal.
How much peanut butter can a dog eat?
Treats of every kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories, says the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. Here is that daily treat budget by size, and how much peanut butter it buys if peanut butter is the only treat that day. Peanut butter has about 598 kcal per 100 g; 2 tbsp (32 g) is about 191 kcal.
| Dog size | Daily treat budget | Max peanut butter a day |
|---|---|---|
| Small (10 lb) | 26 kcal | 4 g (an eighth of 2 tbsp) |
| Medium (30 lb) | 59 kcal | 10 g (a third of 2 tbsp) |
| Large (60 lb) | 100 kcal | 17 g (half of 2 tbsp) |
| Giant (90 lb) | 136 kcal | 23 g (two thirds of 2 tbsp) |
Less is better for small, overweight or diabetic dogs. Work out your own dog's numbers with the dog food calculator. Calories: USDA FoodData Central, Peanut butter, smooth style, without salt.
Other nuts and nut butters: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Almonds | Avoid | No. Almonds can block the esophagus and are high in fat. |
| Pistachios | Avoid | Best avoided. Pistachios are not toxic, but they are fatty, salty and a choking risk. |
| Cashews | Small amounts | Yes, a few plain unsalted cashews. They are fatty, so keep it rare. |
| Peanuts | Small amounts | Yes, a few plain unsalted peanuts. |
| Macadamia nuts | Toxic | No. Macadamia nuts are one of the most poisonous foods for dogs. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories (WSAVA). The rest should come from a complete dog food.
- Check labels for xylitol, raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts, which turn up in baked goods, snacks and spreads.
- If your dog has a health condition, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or kidney disease, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Yes, plain and xylitol-free, in small amounts.
How much peanut butter can a dog eat?
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories (WSAVA). For a 30 lb dog that is about 59 kcal a day, or roughly 10 g of peanut butter if it is the only treat that day.
Sources
- American Kennel Club, "Human Foods Dogs Can and Can't Eat" (updated Aug 17, 2026)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, "Feeding treats to your dog"
- USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy (April 2018 release)
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.