Peanut butter is a common treat we share with our dogs, but some brands contain a silent killer

Dogs are a part of the family, so obviously when we're enjoying a sweet treat and they're looking up at us with those big puppy dog eyes, we want to share a bite.

Now, if it's something like grapes or chocolate, most dog owners are aware those are two of the common foods that are poisonous to dogs.

But a common human treat we love to share with our four-legged friends is peanut butter.

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Peanut butter is great because you put it inside a Kong toy or on a lickimat, and your furry friend is entertained for ages as they make sure to lick up every last drop.

But there is an issue with peanut butter a lot of pet parents aren't aware of – it can actually be toxic to dogs.

Now, if you've fed your dog peanut butter before, don't panic. Not all peanut butter is poisonous to dogs, but if you are going to share the snack, make sure you check the ingredients list first.

If your jar of peanut butter has xylitol listed as an ingredient, do not share it with your dog.

Xylitol is a commonly used artificial sweetener made from fruit and vegetable products and often found in confectionary and sugar free foods.

And even though it's not an ingredient found in majority of peanut butters, it's still worth double checking every time, because the consequences could be dire.

Dr. Katrina Warren explains xylitol "can cause serious side effects in dogs because it stimulates the pancreas to secrete insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and can also cause severe liver damage."

She says "weakness, a staggering gait, collapse and seizures can occur within 30 minutes of consumption," adding urgent veterinary care is required if it's consumed.

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Just 100mg of xylitol per kilo of a dog's body weight is known to induce a life-threatening release of insulin, leading to the side effects listed by Dr. Warren, and in sever cases, potentially death.

Before feeding your dog any human foods, you should always be sure it's something they're allowed to have.

And in the case of peanut butter, always check the ingredients list – you're better off safe than sorry.

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