Can dogs eat butter?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
High fat can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, and the lactose may not be tolerated.
Why
Butter is pure fat with little benefit and is best avoided for dogs.
Can dogs eat butter, and why?
Butter is pure fat with little benefit and is best avoided for dogs. High fat can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, and the lactose may not be tolerated.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
High fat can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, and the lactose may not be tolerated.
If your dog has eaten butter, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat butter?
Caution. Butter is pure fat with little benefit and is best avoided for dogs.
What happens if my dog eats butter?
High fat can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, and the lactose may not be tolerated. If your dog has eaten butter, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is butter poisonous to dogs?
Caution. Butter is pure fat with little benefit and is best avoided for dogs.
Check butter for another pet