Can dogs eat butter?

Butter is about 80 percent fat. One tablespoon carries around 100 calories and 11 g of fat, and a standard 250 g block holds roughly 1,800 calories. For a 10 kg (22 lb) dog, that block is more than three days' worth of energy eaten in a minute.

Salted butter adds sodium, but the fat is the main concern.

Counter-surfing dogs often grab butter left out to soften for baking. Most will vomit or have greasy diarrhea within a day. Some go on to develop pancreatitis, which causes pain, repeated vomiting, and refusal to eat, and may need hospital treatment. Small dogs and breeds prone to pancreatitis, such as Miniature Schnauzers, are at higher risk.

Check whether the foil or paper wrapper was eaten too, since it can cause a blockage.

Foods cooked in butter, such as scrambled eggs or vegetables, are much richer than plain versions. Garlic butter, herb butters, and brandy butter at Christmas combine fat with garlic or alcohol. Buttered popcorn and toast are best kept for people.

Cook your dog's portion before adding butter to the family pan.

Complete dog foods already contain the fats your dog needs, including essential fatty acids. If your vet suggests adding healthy fats for skin or coat, fish oil is a more targeted option than butter, and your vet can recommend the right amount. Your vet can also advise whether any change is needed at all.