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Last Updated on February 18, 2023
Butter has become an essential part of our lives, that is if you are into cakes et al. Jokes aside, butter can be used in a wide variety of ways, especially when it comes to cooking or baking. However, butter is somewhat responsible for getting humans fat. Butter does have a high fat content, and it is always good to consume it in moderation. Remember not to put too much of a butter spread on your toast. But having said these all, while it is very common for humans to consume butter, what happens when a dog eats butter? Can dogs eat butter, or is it poisonous to them? Let’s find out!
What Is Butter Made Of
Butter is made from fresh or fermented milk, and it is a dairy product that usually has a very high fat content. On average, there is about 12g of fat per 1 tbsp of butter. While butter itself does not contain any food substance that is harmful to dogs, it is the fat content that is a danger to dogs. What’s more, the fats are actually saturated fats, and hence it is completely zero in nutrition. It does not, however, pose any immediate danger to the dog. Butter is not known to be poisonous to dogs.
What Happens When A Dog Eats Butter
What happens? Since butter is not poisonous to dogs, your dogs will not have any immediate reaction to it. But we all know that the fat content in butter is high, right? And just so you know, dogs need just 1g of fat per 0.46 pound of weight. If you give the dog just 1 tablespoon of butter, they will be nearing their fat quota per day. And this is already excluding the fats coming from their usual food!
So even if your dog decides to eat butter and have a good time with it, nothing serious will happen to the dog. Unless your dog is lactose intolerant, of course!
Alternatives to Butter for Dogs
If you are looking for a way to add flavor to your dog’s food, there are many safe and healthy alternatives to butter that you can consider. Some options include:
- Peanut Butter – This is a popular treat for dogs that is high in protein and healthy fats. Be sure to choose a brand that does not contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Coconut Oil – This oil is high in healthy fats that can help improve your dog’s skin and coat. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can boost your dog’s immune system.
- Lean Meats – Cooked lean meats such as chicken and turkey can be a great source of protein for dogs. Just be sure to avoid giving your dog any bones or skin, which can be harmful to their digestive system.
The Verdict: Can Dogs Eat Butter, Or Is Butter Bad For Dogs
While butter is not necessarily toxic to dogs, it is not the best food choice for them. Its high-fat content and potential for lactose intolerance can lead to a range of health issues. As responsible pet owners, it is our duty to ensure that our dogs are consuming a healthy and balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.
So the next time someone comes running to you and exclaiming “Help! My dog ate a stick of butter!”, you will know exactly what to say to them!
