dog treats – Live Laugh Love Do http://livelaughlovedo.com A Super Fun Site Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:12:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 The 11 Best Bully Sticks of 2025 http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/the-11-best-bully-sticks-of-2025/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/the-11-best-bully-sticks-of-2025/#respond Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:12:03 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/09/25/the-11-best-bully-sticks-of-2025/ [ad_1]

Bully sticks are longer-lasting dog chews that reduce buildup on teeth while providing an enjoyable treat for your dog to gnaw on. The treats are generally safe to give to a dog of any size and age, but moderation is always important.

“Bully sticks are high in fat, so as with any treat item, if a large amount of a rich food item is ingested, or if your dog has a very sensitive stomach, then some gastrointestinal upset can occur,” said Erin Katribe, DVM, medical director of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.

These dense treats, also called bully bones, are made from the penis of a bull or steer—an ingredient commonly called pizzle. In general, bully sticks are made from beef pizzle that has been cleaned, shaped, and baked at a low temperature. The beef treats are made in a variety of shapes—including springs that are coiled and braids that combine three pizzles.

If your dog exhibits any signs of discomfort, like diarrhea or vomiting, they may have overindulged. As with any edible treat, it is important to supervise your dog while they are chewing on a bully stick.

Our favorite for most dogs are Natural Farm’s Odor Free Standard Bully Sticks, which are made from free-range, grass-fed cattle, come in a variety of shapes (braided, springs, rings, and more), and are packaged in recyclable bags. But there are several other bully sticks available that we also recommend.

Natural Farm Odor-Free Standard Bully Sticks

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Made from grass-fed, free-range cattle

  • No hormones, additives, or chemicals

  • Sustainable packaging

Natural Farm bully sticks are suitable for medium chewers, making them a good pick for most dogs. They’re also odor-free, so they won’t offend nearby humans.

Made from grass-fed, free-range Brazilian cattle, the pizzles used in these bully sticks have no hormones, additives, or chemicals. They’re single-ingredient and cleaned with water, then slowly oven-baked to preserve the nutrients.

Natural Farm bullies come in traditional sticks, as well as springs, rings, braids, and bites. Depending on the size and chewing style of your dog, you can choose from standard, select, jumbo, pixie, and extra-thin sticks. We think the standard 6-inch bully sticks are appropriate for most dogs’ chewing needs, and appreciate the flexible packaging on offer, with 12- and 16-ounce packs in addition to 15-, 20-, and 25-pizzle packages.

Natural Farm donates a portion of proceeds from every sale to organizations that help animals in need worldwide, and the packaging is made with 51 percent recyclable sugar cane.

Form: Sticks, springs, braids, bites, rings | Amount: 1.2 pounds | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Nature Gnaws Natural Dog Chews

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Human-grade food testing

  • No additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients

  • Grass-fed, free-range cattle

Nature Gnaws Natural Dog Chews are braided bully sticks made entirely from grass-fed, free-range cattle. A braided bully stick is made of three strips of pizzle that are tightly braided together and then baked to form a dog treat.

Nature Gnaws’ bullies are made without additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. The bullies are cleaned with water and then baked in the oven.

The company relies on human-grade food testing to make sure the chews aren’t contaminated with bacteria. In addition to braids, Nature Gnaws sells extra-thin, small, large, and spring-shaped bullies.

Form: Braided | Amount: 5 count | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Barkworthies Odor-Free Bully Sticks

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • No artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors

  • Lots of shapes and sizes

  • Responsibly sourced free-range, grass-fed beef

Barkworthies are single-ingredient chews with no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. The beef is sourced from South America. There is also a line of sticks baked in the U.S.

There are so many different styles for light, medium, hard, and even power chewers, ranging from standard, braided, and curly sticks to jumbo, double cut, and monster sticks. For light and medium chewers, there are also long and skinny cane sticks, which can be cut into smaller pieces.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 5 count | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

“These bully sticks keep the puppies I foster occupied. I particularly like the double cut sticks because they take a lot of work. I know the puppies won’t be able to gnaw off too much, and it makes them happy as they’re teething.” —Mary Jo DiLonardo, veteran foster who has cared for over 75 dogs and puppies

Jack & Pup 6-Inch Premium-Grade Odor-Free Bully Sticks

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Free of hormones and antibiotics

  • USDA certified and inspected facility

  • No additives or chemicals

These bully bones are made from grass-fed beef that is processed in a USDA human-grade certified and inspected facility. They are boiled, roasted, smoked, and slow-dried without any additives or chemicals.

The process keeps the treats fresh longer without preservatives and helps keep them odor-free. However, once pups start chewing, these sticks develop a very gamey smell.

The premium sticks are especially good for dogs to gnaw on to keep their teeth and gums healthy. The company makes bullies in standard, thick, and jumbo sizes, and they are available in six-inch or 12-inch lengths.

Jack & Pup also has bites, braids, and curls. Bites should only be given to the tiniest of dogs because their small size could be choking hazards for larger pets.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 1.17 pounds | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Best Bully Sticks 2-4 Inch All-Natural Junior Bully Sticks for Dogs

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • From free-range, grass-fed beef

  • Made in the United States

  • Ideal for teething puppies

  • Good for all life stages

Smaller dogs, with smaller mouths and teeth to match, will enjoy chewing on Best Bully Sticks, which range in length from 2 to 4 inches. Within a pack, the thickness will vary among each treat, but all sticks are made in the United States from free-range, grass-fed beef.

Best Bully Sticks are suitable for dogs of any age, including teething puppies. They are moderately dense and should keep your dog occupied for an extended time.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 8 ounces | Breed Size: Small

Sancho & Lola's Bully Sticks

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • No growth hormones, toxic chemicals, or antibiotics

  • Made from beef farmed in the United States

  • Help remove buildup on teeth

If you have several dogs or just feed your pup a lot of treats, it can be convenient and save you money to buy in bulk. Sancho & Lola offers that option for all its many forms of bully sticks. They’re all made without growth hormones, toxic chemicals, or antibiotics.

The charcuterie-style sticks are made from beef farmed in the United States, and other bully products from the brand are from free-range, grass-fed cattle farmed in North and South America. All of Sancho & Lola’s products are processed, inspected, and packed in facilities in Texas and Nebraska.

You can choose from traditional, thick, or crunchy in several different lengths. You can also opt for a range of smells from no odor to moderate odor. However, the moderate-odor treats are actually really stinky, which your dog will love more than you will. A portion of all proceeds goes to dog rescues.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 24-30 count | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Himalayan Pet Supply Himalayan Dog Chew The Original

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Can last a long time

  • No smell

  • Nothing is wasted

These hard treats are made from 100 percent yak and cow’s milk with a little salt and lime juice for added taste. The chews have no gluten, grain, soy, lactose, or corn.

There are no artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, or additives. Dogs just chew and scrape until they can get little pieces off.

When the stick gets too small, you can soak it in water, microwave it, let it cool, and feed it to your pup as a special cheese puff treat. That way, nothing is wasted.

The treats come from the Himalayas, where they support a network of more than 10,000 farmers who handcraft them. They are certified Fair Trade by the World Fair Trade Organization. For every pound of cheese chewed, the company donates a book to a library in Nepal.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 1 count | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Redbarn All Natural 5-8 Inch Bully Sticks for Small & Large Dogs

Credit: Amazon

Each Bully Stick Party Pack from Redbarn offers an assortment of sticks made from 100 percent beef pizzle with no artificial preservatives or additives. The sticks are suitable as a treat for dogs of all life stages, from puppy to senior, and giving your dog a bully stick from the party pack will likely help to reduce buildup along their gum line.

The variety packs come in two sizes: a 12-ounce package with bully sticks ranging from 4 to 5 inches in length and an 8-ounce package with bully sticks measuring 5 to 8 inches long. Since these packs are sold by weight, the number of sticks in each bag often varies. The thickness of the sticks can also vary, with some pizzles being thinner than others.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 8 ounces, 12 ounces | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

Woof Free-Range Bully Sticks

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Sustainably sourced

  • Free-range, grass-fed beef

  • Long-lasting chew

  • Direct-to-consumer pricing

If your pup is bullish on bully sticks, Woof offers an economical way to keep you well-stocked on your pet’s favorite chews. With a direct-to-consumer model, the company provides high-quality bully sticks made from free-range and sustainably sourced grass-fed beef that are about 25 percent less expensive than other brands. You save even more with an auto-ship subscription.

Woof bully sticks come in 6-inch and 12-inch lengths and are available in packs of 5, 10, or 25. While we like that the sticks provide a long-lasting chew, we’re not fans of the smell, which is still detectable despite the company’s claim that the product is “low odor.” Nevertheless, if your dog loves the taste, then they’re definitely worth the savings.

Woof also offers a unique holder for a bully stick called the BullySafe, designed to hold the bully stick in place to extend the duration of play and reduce the risk of choking. This extra tool can be added to your order, and it’s easy to use—simply unscrew, insert the bully, tighten, and let your dog enjoy.

Form: Sticks | Amount: 5, 10, or 25 count | Breed Size: Small, medium, large

The Honest Company Beams Ocean Chews Grain Free Dog Chew Treats

Credit: Amazon

These treats are made from 100% wolffish skins from wild-caught and sustainably sourced fish. The easily digestible treats are high in protein, making for a healthy and nutritious alternative to rawhide. Because fish skin is naturally packed with omega-3 fatty acids, these treats also help to promote healthy skin and coat.

That said, they do have a strong fishy smell, which may not appeal to all dogs. Also, they don’t provide as long a chew as rawhide, and the skin can get quite rubbery, which can pose a choking hazard.

The treats are available in two varieties—wolffish and cod—and come in 3.5-ounce and 5.5-ounce bags.

Form: Dehydrated treats | Amount: 3.5 ounces, 5.5 ounces | Breed Size: Small

Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw Bully Sticks

Credit: Chewy

What We Like

  • Lighter, easier to chew

  • Pizzle responsibly sourced and processed in USA

  • High in protein, low in fat

  • Rich in essential nutrients

These bully sticks from Vital Essentials are made from 100 percent premium beef pizzle, responsibly sourced and made in the USA. Like the brand’s other single-protein treats, these are freeze-dried for a full 48 hours, preserving more of the essential nutrients. As a result, these are lighter in weight than traditional bully sticks and easier to chew, and they gently remove plaque buildup.

On the downside, this also means large dogs and aggressive chewers can quickly blow through a 1.4-ounce bag, which may at times contain only 3 sticks. While pet parents appreciate the high-quality ingredients and report their dogs love the taste, several take issue with the cost.

Form: Freeze-dried sticks | Amount: 1.4 ounces | Breed Size: All

Final Verdict

Our top choice is Natural Farm’s No Odor Standard Bully Sticks, which are made from grass-fed, free-range cattle with no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. The company also has sustainable packaging and donates proceeds to help animals in need with every purchase. Another great choice is Nature Gnaws. The all-natural braided bullies are especially challenging for power chewers.

What Are Bully Sticks?

Bully sticks are dense beef chews for dogs, which are made from the penis of a bull or steer—an ingredient often labeled as “pizzle” on packaging. The treats come in a variety of lengths and widths, along with varying degrees of firmness.

What to Look for in Bully Sticks

Size

Choose the bully stick based on the size of your dog. If it’s too small, it could be a choking hazard, said veterinarian Erin Katribe. Stay away from bully bites if you have a large dog, for example.

If your dog is small, and the bully stick is too large, they might not be able to chew it and may get frustrated. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, opt for a thicker bully stick like a braided option. Most companies have recommendations on their websites regarding their specific products.

Odor

You and your dog might disagree on this one. Bully sticks can smell really, really bad (or really enticing, if you’re a dog). If you don’t want your house smelling like a musty, meaty animal, you might want to opt for an odor-free pizzle. These are usually cooked longer to get rid of some of the smell and moisture. 

But just a heads up: When your dog starts chewing any bully stick, that saliva will make even the odor-free sticks start to smell a little.

Sourcing

Most companies will list where the animals came from. We like the idea that they come from free-range, grass-fed cattle. Some people prefer animals raised in the United States or Canada, but others point out that cows in Brazil, for example, are nearly always free-range and fed on grass—check the fine print for sourcing information.

Shape

Bully sticks are made in a variety of shapes. To achieve some of these shapes, pizzles are often cut and/or combined prior to being baked. For example, braided bully sticks combine three pizzles to make the treat more dense and textured.

This also makes braided bully sticks more amenable to tough-chewing dogs. Shapes include sticks, braids, springs, rings, and bites.

FAQ

  • Are bully sticks safe for puppies?

    Bully sticks are generally safe for puppies, said Katribe, though you should take the same precautions that you take with adult dogs. “Puppies are often prone to more sensitive stomachs than adults, and so this is something to watch out for,” she says. “Puppies may need their access restricted to a shorter time so that they ingest less at one sitting.”

  • When should I take a bully stick away from my dog?

    Keep an eye on how much of the stick your dog is eating. “When the bully stick is approaching a size that’s small enough to ingest whole, it’s time to take it away to reduce the chance of it becoming lodged in the throat,” Katribe said. She suggests that you may also want to take the bully stick after a certain amount of time per day, simply to limit the amount ingested at once.

  • How often can I give my dog a bully stick?

    As mentioned, all treats should be given in moderation. Per Katribe, treats should make up less than 10 percent of your dog’s caloric intake. You can do the math and figure this out, based on the size of your dog and the bully stick.

    “For a more general rule of thumb, a maximum of two to three times per week should be reasonable for most dogs,” she says. “If your dog is a particularly fast chewer, it may make sense to limit their time with the bully stick so that they last longer (and so the dog doesn’t ingest a large amount at once).”

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

This article was researched and written by Mary Jo DiLonardo, who has covered animals and pets for several decades. DiLonardo has fostered more than 75 dogs and puppies, and is always searching for the healthiest and most effective products, foods, and treats for them.

We consulted with veterinarian Erin Katribe, medical director of Best Friends Animal Society, before researching bully sticks. All of the chews we recommended are 100 percent beef with no additives or chemicals, and they offer clear in

formation about sourcing.

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Should You Share an Apple With Your Dog? Read This First http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/should-you-share-an-apple-with-your-dog-read-this-first/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/should-you-share-an-apple-with-your-dog-read-this-first/#respond Tue, 23 Sep 2025 13:03:59 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/09/23/should-you-share-an-apple-with-your-dog-read-this-first/ [ad_1]

An apple a day may keep your doctor away—but how about your pet’s veterinarian? One of the most popular fruits consumed (by humans) in America, apples can also be a healthy, low-calorie snack for our four-legged friends, too.

Apples Can Be Healthy for Dogs

Apples are chock full of vitamins, like A and C, as well as dietary fiber, calcium, phosphorus, and antioxidants. Apples help satisfy your pet’s sweet tooth in a healthier (and non-toxic) way.

Apples make an especially great treat for dogs who need to limit protein intake for health reasons o or that need to limit calories for weight control. The fiber in apples can be beneficial for gastrointestinal health. Just like in humans, the antioxidants in apples can also boost your pet’s overall health, and potentially provide an extra level of protection against disease.

How to Safely Serve Apples to Your Dog

Before you start slicing up apples for your pet, just be sure that the core, stem, and seeds are removed entirely. In addition, no matter how healthy they are, apples and other dog treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

Warning

Apple seeds contain minute traces of amygdalin, a compound that contains cyanide, while the apple core poses a serious choking hazard. If Fido accidentally swallows a few apple seeds, it likely won’t hurt him, but regularly consuming apple seeds can build up cyanide in your dog’s system over time and lead to serious consequences because it prevents the blood from carrying oxygen throughout the body.

Offering your dog small slices of apple will ensure that the sweet fruit is easy for him or her to eat—for safety reasons, never offer a whole apple to your dog, and you’ll also want to stay away from the harder-to-digest dehydrated apples. You’ll also want to be sure to monitor your pet for any individual reactions to fruits like apples, including diarrhea. Consuming too many apples can cause tummy troubles in both canines and humans. Also, keep in mind that apples do contain sugar, so if your dog has a condition like diabetes you’ll want to get your veterinarian’s okay before feeding them as a snack.

When choosing apples for your pet, most dogs love the sweet taste and crunchy bite of varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Red Delicious apples, but you’ll want to try to choose organic apples whenever possible to avoid any harmful effects from pesticides. And it probably goes without saying, but you’ll also want to keep your dog away from apples that are candied or covered in unsafe sugary toppings like caramel or chocolate, as well as from other human desserts containing apples like pies or cakes.

Other Ways for Your Dog to Enjoy Apples

If your dog goes bananas for apples, there are lots of ways to incorporate this fiber-packed fruit into your pup’s diet (just be sure, as with all treats, to feed them in moderation and adjust their normal food intake accordingly). Many apple-loving dogs enjoy a little bit of homemade applesauce (no sugar added) mixed in with their food. Serve up their apple slices with a drizzle of peanut butter, or consider stuffing your dog’s beloved Kong toys with apple pieces. You can even make your own homemade dog treats using apples combined with other nutrient-packed, dog-friendly ingredients like pumpkin and peanut butter.

Warning

Avoid certain spices, like nutmeg, as they can be toxic to dogs.

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The 10 Best Peanut Butter for Dogs of 2025 http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/the-10-best-peanut-butter-for-dogs-of-2025/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/the-10-best-peanut-butter-for-dogs-of-2025/#respond Sat, 23 Aug 2025 15:58:11 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/08/23/the-10-best-peanut-butter-for-dogs-of-2025/ [ad_1]

Peanut butter is a popular dog treat, and useful for reinforcing positive behaviors, calming anxious pets, or camouflaging medication. It pairs well with many dog toys, including lick mats, which are textured surfaces that many dogs find relaxing to lick. Dr. Lisa Lippman, Director of Virtual Care at Bond Vet, told The Spruce Pets that veterinarians even use peanut butter as a distraction to administer fear-free exams and nail trims. 

While peanut butter is a pantry staple, the jar you already have at home isn’t necessarily the best option for your dog. Peanut butter can be high in sugar and salt, and may even contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs, and can lead to hypoglycemia, liver failure, or even death, depending on the dose. 

Instead, look for peanut butter with a limited list of ingredients. “They don’t need the salt or the sugar or anything else like that,” says Dr. Lippman. “So as simple as possible is going to be your best bet.”

Amazon Teddie All Natural Smooth Peanut Butter

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • One ingredient recipe

  • Human-grade

  • No added oil

  • Smooth consistency

Teddie All Natural Peanut Butter, a popular recommendation of veterinarians and dog owners we surveyed, is our top choice for dogs. The human-grade recipe contains one ingredient, dry-roasted peanuts. There is no added oil, salt, or sugar in the all-natural recipe. Yet, customers praise the flavor, meaning it’s a safe pantry item to keep on hand for your entire family (humans and dogs included).

Dr. Lippman adds that while giving a product marketed “for dogs” can give you peace of mind, there’s actually less regulation around treats and even supplements, so sometimes she prefers giving “people stuff.” She continues, “I like giving them things that I know I would eat.” 

Teddie Peanut Butter has a smooth consistency and is easy to spread on lick mats or feed on a spoon. It’s not likely to get runny or separate either. This peanut butter comes in a 1-pound jar and is more affordable than some other options.

It is sold in a 1-pound, 10-ounce size and can be purchased in a pack of six. Teddie Peanut Butter also comes in a ‘Super Chunky’ variation with similar natural ingredients.

Primary Ingredients: Dry-roasted peanuts | Size/Volume: 16-ounce, 26-ounce jars

Dilly’s Poochie Butter

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Simple human-grade recipe

  • Non GMO

  • Contains healthy coconut oil

  • Donates 10 percent of profits to dog shelters

Dilly’s Poochie Butter, which was formulated for dogs, has five simple ingredients: dry roasted peanuts, flaxseed, turmeric, parsley, and ginger. There’s no added sugar or salt in the human-grade recipe. 

“I and other vets recommend it because it contains natural nuts and coconut oil,” Dr. Dawn Filos, a veterinarian of over 30 years, shared with The Spruce Pets. “Ginger helps with settling stomachs, which, along with turmeric and cinnamon, is also anti-inflammatory. Parsley helps with dogs’ breath, and is said to help with urinary health and itch relief, as well as being loaded with vitamins A and C, folic acid, and antioxidants.” 

Dilly’s Poochie Butter comes in a 1-pound jar and has feeding recommendations for dogs weighing both under and over 25 pounds. 10 percent of all profits are donated to animal shelters and similar organizations, according to the brand.

Primary Ingredients: Dry-roasted peanuts, flaxseed, turmeric, parsley, ginger | Size/Volume: 16-ounce jar

365 by Whole Foods Market Peanut Butter

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Only dry-roasted peanuts

  • Pantry-safe

  • USDA-certified organic

  • Real peanut taste

Whole Foods Market Peanut Butter comes in at a close second and is also recommended by Dr. Filos as a peanut butter that is safe for both dogs and humans. The simple recipe has one ingredient (USDA-certified organic dry-roasted peanuts) and is free of preservatives, salt, and sugar. It has a creamy texture and a real-peanut taste.

The 1-pound jar of this peanut butter comes in three variations: organic creamy, sweetened crunchy organic, and sweetened smooth organic. We recommend the Organic Creamy Peanut Butter for dogs because it is the simplest recipe. The other two variations include added salt, sugar, and oil, which should be avoided.  

Primary Ingredients: Organic dry-roasted peanuts | Size/Volume: 16-ounce jar

Spread The Love NAKED Organic Peanut Butter

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Single ingredient recipe

  • Safe for the entire family

  • Ultra creamy texture

  • No added oil, sugar, salt, or xylitol

Spread The Love NAKED Organic Peanut Butter has a one-ingredient recipe of organic peanuts. It has no added salt, sugar, or oil and is USDA-certified organic. 

The texture is ultra-creamy, which might get runny, but can be thickened by stirring and then storing the tub in the refrigerator. It can be spread on a lick mat or spoon for your dog and is a human-marketed product that your entire family could enjoy. This peanut butter is available in a 1-pound jar and can also be purchased in a pack of six. 

Primary Ingredients: Organic dry-roasted peanuts | Size/Volume: 16-ounce jar

Bark Bistro Buddy Budder

Credit: Chewy

What We Like

  • Unique flavor combinations

  • Made with human-grade ingredients

  • Simple recipes

  • Can be thickened in the refrigerator

Dilly’s Poochie Butter is the best dog brand, but Bark Bistro Buddy Budder is a great alternative because of its unique flavor options. While each one has a slightly different recipe, they all have a peanut base and are free of artificial sugar, salt, hydrogenated oils, xylitol, and alcohol. The Pumpkin Pup, for example, contains pumpkin, cinnamon, and honey in addition to peanuts.

This wide variety of flavors means you can choose a peanut butter with added ingredients you know will appeal to your dog, ensuring they will consider it a high-value treat. Our favorite—‘Begging Bacon’—contains peanuts, bacon, and honey. Although this peanut butter has a runny texture, it will thicken when stored in the refrigerator.

Primary Ingredients: Peanuts, apple, cinnamon, honey (Awesome Apple); peanuts, banana, strawberry, honey (Banana Split); peanuts, bacon, honey (Beggin Bacon); peanuts, carob, vanilla, honey (Brownie Batter); peanuts, pineapple, carrot, honey (Carrot Cake); peanuts, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, honey (Superberry Snoot); peanuts, pumpkin, cinnamon, honey (Pumpkin Pup) | Size/Volume: 17-ounce jar

WholeHearted Loveable Lickables Peanut Butter Dog Treats

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Portable

  • Easy dispensing

  • Three-ingredient recipe

  • Healthy dose of fiber

The WholeHearted Loveable Lickables Peanut Butter Dog Treats are packaged in a squeezable tube that can be easily taken on the go. It has been specifically formulated for dogs, similar to our other recommendations, and has a simple recipe. In addition to peanuts, oatmeal and pumpkin add healthy fiber to this recipe.

“I really do like the easy use of this, especially when dispensing it into Kong toys, which can be hard to fill with a spoon or knife,” says Dr. Filos. “The pumpkin also makes the peanut butter softer and easier to dispense from a squirt tube.”

This peanut butter can be purchased in 2-ounce or 8-ounce tubes or in packs of 6. The brand recommends refrigerating it for a creamy texture and massaging the tube to soften it so it’s more spreadable. 

Primary Ingredients: Peanuts, oatmeal, pumpkin | Size/Volume: 2-ounce, 8-ounce tube

PBfit Pure Peanut, 100% Powdered Peanut Powder

Credit: Amazon

What We Like

  • Contains only peanut flour

  • Control over consistency and texture

  • Can add to yogurt or smoothies

  • Non-GMO

The PBfit Powdered Peanut Powder is our top recommendation for a peanut butter in powder form. You add water to thicken it to your desired consistency, giving you more control over the texture. Made of peanut flour, PBfit is formulated for humans and has a simple dog-safe recipe.

This powder comes in a 1-pound, 8-ounce jar, which is slightly bigger than most of the options on our list. In addition to using the PBfit Powdered Peanut Powder as a treat for your dog, it can also be added to smoothies and yogurt. 

Primary Ingredients: Peanut flour | Size/Volume: 24-ounce jar

Bocce's Bakery Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter & Banana Recipe

Credit: Chewy

Bocce’s Bakery is known for simple recipes and natural ingredients made in small batches. These Soft & Chewy treats in Peanut Butter & Banana are the best peanut butter treats for dogs. They are oven-baked and have a simple nine-ingredient recipe that includes peanut butter, rolled oats, flaxseed, banana, and carob chips. 

The Bocce’s Bakery Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter & Banana Recipe is sold in a 6-ounce resealable bag. Each treat contains 14 calories per treat but has a crumbly texture that makes it easy to break into smaller pieces to reward your dog.

The softness of these chews makes them good to give to senior dogs as well. These treats come in four other standard recipes, and Bocce’s Bakery also tends to release seasonal flavors.  

Primary Ingredients: Oat Flour, peanut butter, coconut glycerin, rolled oats, cane molasses, flaxseed, banana, carob chips, citric acid | Size/Volume: 6-ounce bag

Benebone Peanut Butter Flavor Wishbone Tough Dog Chew Toy

Credit: Amazon

After testing 25 dog chewers and comparing Benebone to Nylabone, we recommend the Benebone Peanut Butter Flavor Wishbone Tough Dog Chew Toy. While it is made of nylon, which should not be ingested, it’s a great option for pet parents looking to satisfy their dog’s urge to chew. It has been infused with real peanuts, giving it a taste that will keep your dog engaged. 

The Wishbone Tough Dog Chew comes in four sizes: small, medium, large, and giant. It is shaped like a wishbone, and this ergonomic design makes it easy for dogs to hold on their own. It is dense, but not too heavy for dogs to maneuver. The Wishbone Tough Dog Chew Toy is available in bacon and chicken variations as well, which have also been infused with real flavors. 

Primary Ingredients: Peanuts | Size/Volume: Tiny, small, medium, large, giant

Pupsicle Pops

Credit: Woof

Designed to work in tandem with the Woof Pupsicle—a treat dispenser we tested and liked for lickable treats—these peanut butter-based pops are a mess-free alternative to the DIY versions made in silicone pop molds. They come ready to use; no need to freeze or refrigerate them to set. Each pop can last up to 40 minutes of playtime.

Although the ingredient list is longer than most of the other options here, they are all wholesome, human-grade, and none you can’t pronounce; there’s also no salt, sugar, or xylitol. Plus, they’re made without wheat or corn.

The Woof Pupsicle Refill pops come in three flavors—beef, birthday cake, and chicken—and three sizes. Each pop is 85.6 calories.

Primary Ingredients: Peanut butter (roasted peanuts), tapioca starch, chicken plasma, beef tallow, vegetable glycerin, date syrup, soy lecithin, brewers dried yeast, beef gelatin, blueberry | Size/Volume: Small (10 count), small (20 count), large (10 count), large (20 count), x-large (10 count), x-large (20 count)

Final Verdict

Our overall top pick is Teddie All Natural Peanut Butter, Unsalted Smooth. When selecting a peanut butter for your dog, you have the option of a product formulated for humans or dogs. As Dr. Lippman notes, there’s something nice about feeding your dog a product that you know you’d eat yourself. Plus, these brands tend to be more affordable, and you can store them in your house with peace of mind.

While some brands have been enriched with additional ingredients, Dr. Filos notes that it’s not a necessity to look out for. “Overall, you would need to feed a fairly large amount of these peanut butter products to dogs long term to get these benefits, which might be found in other foods or supplements in higher concentrations,” she says. We recommend finding a dog-safe recipe you are comfortable with and that your dog considers a high-value treat. Bark Bistro Buddy Budder, which has the best flavor variety, is a great option for pickier eaters.

What To Know About Peanut Butter For Dogs

Peanut Butter Uses and Benefits

“The point of peanut butter is to have this spreadable high-value treat,” says Dr. Lippman. Peanut butter is most commonly used as a reward for dogs and can be a helpful aid for behavioral training, such as for a dog with separation anxiety. If your dog takes any sort of pill, you can also use peanut butter to disguise the medication.

Since it takes time to eat, peanut butter can also keep your dog occupied when needed. “In addition to using [peanut butter] to train dogs and medicate them, it can also be used to fill Kong toys, or put on some entertaining toys that help keep active pets busy, and make them work for their treats,” says Dr. Filos. “It is the equivalent of putting a video on to have some peace and quiet while you are trying to manage a work call. It buys you quiet time while your pet is working on getting at their peanut butter.”

Xylitol and Other Risks

Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol found in plants that’s safe for human consumption, so sometimes it is used as a sugar substitute in peanut butter. “Especially any diet or sugar-free peanut butter potentially can have Xylitol in it,” notes Dr. Lippman. However, it is not safe for dogs and can cause anything from low blood sugar to death. 

Xylitol is sometimes listed under the following names, according to Dr. Filos, which should be avoided at all costs as well:

  • 1,3-Anhydro-D-xylitol
  • Anhyrdroxylitol
  • Birch bark extract
  • Birch sugar
  • D-xylitol
  • Xylite
  • Xylitylglucoside
  • Zylatol

In addition to looking out for toxins, Dr. Lippman says to avoid peanut butter with added salt and sugar and to be mindful that it can be high in calories. “Some dogs have allergies or gastrointestinal issues, and so that all has to be taken into account,” she adds.

Nutrition

In moderation, peanut butter can be a great occasional treat for dogs. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats, vitamins B and E, and niacin, so it has some nutritional value for your dog in addition to being delicious. 

However, keep in mind that treats should be no more than 10 percent of your dog’s diet, says Dr. Lippman. She recommends looking at your dog food bag to see how many calories you’re feeding your dog a day and going from there.

“It’s so easy to overdo it in a tablespoon of peanut butter; it can be 100 calories easily,” she told The Spruce Pets. “So let’s say your dog eats 1,000 calories a day, treats should make up no more than 10 percent of their diet, so it should be no more than 100 of those calories.” However, she notes, average-sized dogs eat closer to 500 calories a day. 

How many treats a dog can consume a day depends on your dog and their body condition, as well as how many calories they’re eating. “It can be hard without having professional guidance on exactly how much, so I would say everything in moderation,” advises Dr. Lippman.

FAQ

  • Is peanut butter good for dogs?

    “It certainly can be safe and it could be a good treat when fed in moderation,” says Dr. Lippman. Peanut butter should be treated occasionally as a high-value treat, keeping in mind your dog’s overall calorie intake. A peanut butter with simple ingredients, free of salt, sugar, and Xylitol, can be a fun addition to your treat arsenal. 

  • Can dogs eat peanuts?

    “Peanuts are dog safe,” says Dr. Lippman. “You just want to make sure that they’re fresh, and not moldy.” As with any treat, veterinarians recommend giving your pet a small amount at first to make sure they don’t have an allergy or intolerance. When feeding peanuts, make sure they’re unsalted, unseasoned, no shell.

  • Can cats eat peanut butter?

    Peanut butter is safe and nontoxic for cats, as long as you follow the same guidelines outlined here, but that doesn’t mean they’ll want to eat it. “I’ve never seen a cat eat peanut butter,” says Lippman, noting that cats typically gravitate towards salty treats over sweeter flavors like peanut butter. Be mindful that peanut butter is not the most healthy choice for cats, and they should be consuming a small amount of the high-calorie treat at a time, due to their size.

Why Trust The Spruce Pets?

Rebecca Shinners is a writer with 9+ years of editorial experience. She brought home her first puppy, a cavapoo named Gemma, in Fall 2022. As a first-time dog mom, she’s become an expert at asking questions, researching products, and seeking vet approval. Now, as a writer for The Spruce Pets, she’s using her knowledge to help other dog owners make informed decisions for their own pets.

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Cottage Cheese Ice Cream for Dogs Recipe http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/cottage-cheese-ice-cream-for-dogs-recipe/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/pets-and-animals/cottage-cheese-ice-cream-for-dogs-recipe/#respond Sun, 08 Jun 2025 13:14:49 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/06/08/cottage-cheese-ice-cream-for-dogs-recipe/ [ad_1]

You might have caught the viral TikTok cottage cheese ice cream craze.

Unlike the human version, this dog-friendly version leaves out the chocolate (remember: it’s toxic to dogs!) and substitutes blackstrap molasses for honey, although you can opt for honey if you prefer. I love blackstrap molasses, though, for its extra nutrients.

Did you know a tablespoon of molasses contains the same amount of calcium as a glass of milk? Blackstrap molasses also supplies potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, selenium, manganese, iron, sulfur, and copper, making it a good choice for treat sweetening.

All our dogs know, though, is that it produces a yummy ice cream!

I developed this recipe for our new Dog Ice Cream Coloring Book (which includes dog ice cream recipes).

You’ll need 1 cup of cottage cheese (small or large curd, it doesn’t matter), 1 tablespoon of blackstrap molasses and 1 tablespoon of peanut butter (creamy or crunchy).

In choosing your peanut butter, be sure the peanut butter has NO xylitol, a sweetener that is extremely toxic for dogs. Only a few manufacturers include this sweetener but always check the ingredients list to make sure you’re just getting plain peanut butter!

Toss all the ingredients in a blender or food processor and mix until creamy. You can feed this as a soft-serve ice cream or do like I do and freeze to make a longer-lasting treat.

You can use ice cube trays but I like silicone molds since it’s easier to pop the frozen ice cream out when you’re done.

I also added a little “handle” to the treat, half of a Peanut Butter and Applesauce Dog Treat.

Our dogs loved it!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter (xylitol-free!)

Instructions

  • Blend all ingredients together until creamy.
  • Pour into trays; freeze for four hours.
  • Serve and keep leftover frozen.

Would your dog love this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Paris PermenterParis Permenter
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