Why Do Dogs Like Peanut Butter?

Why Do Dogs Like Peanut Butter?

Our animal nutritionist Dr. Donna Waltz reveals why dogs go nuts for a scoop of peanut butter (and possibly even jelly)!

If you need a quick laugh, search for videos of dogs eating peanut butter. You’ll find tons of pups going crazy for this sweet and salty snack, gleefully eating it even as it sticks to their tongues. But why do dogs like this nutty treat? Our vet expert, Dr. Donna Waltz, has the answers. 

Ahhh, sugar, sugar … 

According to Dr. Donna Waltz, it’s not the nutty smell that attracts dogs, but the sugar component instead. Dogs are omnivores and, as a result, have a sensitivity for sweetness. In the wild, a sweet taste could mean something is loaded with carbohydrates — something a dog could eat to gain energy. Other animals, like cats, can’t detect sweet things because they are mainly carnivores and have less of a need to find carbs. So as omnivores, dogs are more likely to identify and enjoy a sweet snack like peanut butter. 

This sweet tooth could also explain why dogs like eating apples and other fruits or even why they stare longingly at your ice cream cone. 

No matter how much your pup begs, try keeping their peanut butter intake to a minimum. Remember, even the sweetest treat could turn a dog’s tummy sour! That being said, you can serve your dog some Milk-Bone® peanut butter flavor treats. These tasty new treats come in all the peanut butter flavors dogs love, without being harmful to their insides. Looking for a longer lasting treat to fix your pup’s peanut butter craving? Try Milk-Bone GnawBones® With Peanut Butter

From the Dog Blog

woman hugging her dog Photo 10 Ways to Show Your Dog You Love Them

You love your dog, but do they know that? Read our tips on how to show your dog you love them.

dog getting a bath at home Photo 5 Tips for Dog Grooming at Home

Dogs love to play outside, which can mean getting dirty. If your dog balks at the idea of a bath, check out these squeaky-clean tips for dog grooming at home.

bernese mountain dog leaping in the air Photo 6 Ways to Help Keep Your Dog’s Joints Healthy

Whether we like it or not, we all know that as we age, things that were once easy become more difficult.

Sign up for Milk-Bone® news and offers
* indicates required fields.
Does this pet have a birthday or an adoption day?
Processing
Sorry we encountered an error!
Thanks! We'll be in touch with more furball fun. Thank You!