A New Ingredient In Some Peanut Butters Is Deadly To Dogs. Here's What You Need To Know

November 10, 2015

If you're using peanut butter as a treat, or to hide medications for your dog, make sure you read the list of ingredients first.

A new type of peanut butter is being sold with less sugar, but now includes "xylitol" as a sweetener - a sugar substitute that is deadly to dogs.

There are five brands that currently contain contain xylitol: (1) Go Nuts, Co., (2) Hank's Protein Plus Peanut Butter, (3) Krush Nutrition, (4) Nuts 'N More, and (5) P28.

While these are "specialty butters", the subtle presence of xylitol in these butters definitely highlights the importance of reading ingredient labels on products you bring into your home, especially if you plan to share anything with your pets.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sweetener that's gaining in popularity because of its dental benefits for people as well as its suitability as a sugar substitute for people with diabetes. Because of its ability to help prevent cavities and tooth decay and its low glycemic index, xylitol is proving to have some good dental and other health benefits for people. Unfortunately, while xylitol appears to be perfectly safe for people, it is extremely dangerous for dogs — even in small quantities.

(h/t) Preventive Vet