Pumpkin for Dogs: Unlock Digestive Health & Well-being

Pumpkin for dogs: Is it a true superfood, or is it just another dog food fad? Pumpkin is extremely beneficial for dogs. Its high fiber content can help with both diarrhea and constipation.

Keep reading to learn all about pumpkin for dogs, including the benefits, potential risks, how much pumpkin to feed your dog, and more.

Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs? Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Packed with health benefits, pumpkin is great for dogs, especially those that are prone to digestive issues. Here are some of the many health benefits of pumpkin for dogs.

Improves Digestion

Rich in soluble fiber, pumpkin can help improve both diarrhea and constipation and may help your dog’s overall digestion by lowering the pH level in their intestines and adding bulk to their stool.

Packed With Vitamins and Minerals

Pumpkin contains potassium, iron, and vitamins A, C, and E.

Excellent Source of Prebiotics

Prebiotics help feed the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s digestive tract, which contains 70% of their immune system, so you want to keep it as healthy as possible.

Harmful Effects of Giving Pumpkin to Dogs

While pumpkin can be an excellent addition to your dog’s diet, too much of a good thing can, indeed, be bad for your dog. Here are some potential harmful effects of giving your dog too much pumpkin.

May Include Dangerous Ingredients

You need to make sure you buy 100% pure canned pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie filling since the latter may contain nutmeg (which is toxic to dogs), other spices that may irritate your dog’s stomach, sugar that may cause obesity, and even potentially deadly xylitol.

High in Calories

Pumpkin is high in calories and should be given to dogs in moderation. Treats (and other foods outside your dog’s primary diet) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

May Unbalance Dog’s Diet

Too much pumpkin in your dog’s diet could mean they’re no longer getting enough protein, fat, or other essential nutrients, so remember not to overdo it.

How Much Pumpkin for Dogs?

Depending on the size of your dog, you can give them 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin per meal. Smaller dogs should receive less pumpkin, while larger dogs can eat more without suffering ill effects.

How to Prepare Pumpkin for Your Dog

There are many different ways you can prepare pumpkin for your dog. Here are some of the most popular.

Canned Pumpkin Puree

The easiest way to feed pumpkin to your dog is to buy canned pumpkin puree from the grocery store. Just make sure you buy 100% pumpkin rather than pumpkin pie mix.

Powdered Pumpkin

Some companies make powdered pumpkin products specifically for pets. This may last longer than an opened can of pumpkin puree, making it ideal for occasional rather than regular use.

Fresh Pumpkin Puree

In the fall, you can pick up a pumpkin and puree it yourself. Peel a pumpkin, remove the seeds, slice it into chunks, then boil for 20-30 minutes. Drain and mash the pumpkin. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Baked Pumpkin

While pureeing makes pumpkin easier to serve, you can also bake a pumpkin (after removing the seeds) until it’s soft and feed your dog small chunks.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Don’t waste those seeds! You can roast fresh, clean pumpkin seeds in your oven at 350 degrees for an hour, then feed the seeds whole or grind them up to reduce your dog’s risk of choking.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin seeds that have been roasted (without salt or other seasonings) in moderation. You may want to grind the seeds up before serving if your dog is prone to choking.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie?

No, dogs should not eat pumpkin pie. It may contain nutmeg, xylitol, or other toxic ingredients at worst and has too much sugar to be good for your dog at the best of times.

Pumpkin for Dogs With Diarrhea and Other Digestive Issues

If your dog is suffering from mild diarrhea, loose stools, or constipation, adding 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin to each meal may help your pup feel better faster. Note that puppies or dogs with severe diarrhea or constipation should see a veterinarian first to rule out potentially fatal problems such as parvo.

Beyond Pumpkin for Dogs: Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat?

Now that you’ve learned all about pumpkin for dogs, you may be wondering if dogs can eat raw meat. Not only CAN dogs eat raw meat, but they SHOULD. Raw dog food is the most species-appropriate diet you can feed a dog. A raw diet for dogs also happens to be excellent for digestion, if that’s something your dog struggles with.

Learn more about why We Feed Raw is the best dog food you can find.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does pumpkin do for dogs?

Pumpkin is an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps improve digestion and may help soothe both diarrhea and constipation.

Are pumpkin seeds good for dogs?

Yes, pumpkin seeds are good for dogs as long as they are plain and not covered in salt or other seasonings.

What are the benefits of pumpkin for dogs?

The benefits of pumpkin for dogs include improved digestion and relief from constipation or diarrhea.

How can pumpkin help with dog diarrhea?

Pumpkin helps with dog diarrhea by bulking up their stool with soluble fiber.

How much pumpkin should I give my dog?

Depending on the size of your dog, you should give them 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin per meal.

Is pumpkin beneficial for all dogs?

While pumpkin is beneficial for most dogs, nothing in the world can be said to be good for ALL dogs. If you have any concerns about adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet, be sure to talk to your veterinarian first.

Is pumpkin good for dogs with diarrhea?

Yes, pumpkin is excellent for dogs with diarrhea. Adding 1-4 tablespoons of canned pumpkin puree to each meal can help stools solidify in no time.

How should I serve mashed pumpkin for dogs?

You can let your dog lick mashed pumpkin off a spoon, spread it on a lick mat, stuff it into a Kong and freeze it, or add it to their food.

Can I use pumpkin for dog constipation?

Yes, pumpkin is excellent for dog constipation. Adding 1-4 tablespoons of canned pumpkin puree to each meal can help relieve constipation in dogs.

What should I give my dog for an upset stomach?

For a mildly upset stomach, giving your dog 1-4 tablespoons of pumpkin puree per meal may help. If your dog’s upset stomach is severe or doesn’t clear up within a day or two, take your dog to the vet.

In what ways is pumpkin good for dogs?

Pumpkin is excellent for dogs’ digestion and may help improve diarrhea or constipation.

How can I incorporate pumpkin seeds into my dog's diet?

As long as they aren’t covered in salt or other seasonings, you can feed your dog a few whole roasted pumpkin seeds, or you can grind them up and add them to your dog’s food.

How does pumpkin benefit a dog's health?

Pumpkin benefits a dog’s health by improving their digestion, which may also help strengthen their immune system.

How can I prepare pumpkin for my dog?

You can make pureed or mashed pumpkin for dogs by either using canned pumpkin or boiling and then pureeing a whole pumpkin that has had the seeds removed.

For Ultimate Digestion Support, Go Raw

Ready to nurture your dog's health naturally with the wholesomeness of pumpkin? Integrating this superfood into your furry friend's diet has never been easier!

At We Feed Raw, we understand the importance of a balanced diet for your canine companion. Pumpkin is an incredible source of soluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestive health and can aid in managing both diarrhea and constipation. While the benefits are clear, ensuring the right portion size and preparation is key to maintaining your pet's well-being.

This is where we come in. We Feed Raw provides not only a spectrum of raw meat diets that are ideal for your dog's digestive system, but we can guide you on how to complement these meals with the right amount of pumpkin—whether it’s puree, seeds, or fresh pumpkin—tailored to the size and needs of your dog. 

Our approach focuses on a species-appropriate diet, ensuring that your dog receives nutrition as nature intended, with the added benefits of this nutritious squash.

Visit wefeedraw.com today to discover how our raw diet plans, combined with the superfood powers of pumpkin, can support optimal health for your four-legged friend. A vibrant, healthy life for your dog is just a click away! Let's give your dog the gift of a natural, balanced, and delicious diet. 

Join the We Feed Raw family and take the first step toward a happier and healthier pup.