Can dogs eat pumpkin? Benefits of pumpkin for dogs.

When thinking about healthy additions to your dog’s diet, pumpkin often comes to mind - and for good reason! Pumpkin is is a nutritional powerhouse that is packed with essential nutrients, and it's a great way to support your dog’s digestion, immune system, and overall health. But how should pumpkin be fed to dogs, and are there any parts of the pumpkin they should avoid? Here’s what you need to know about how to safely feed pumpkin to your dog and why it’s such a nutritious choice.

How Should You Feed Pumpkin to Dogs?

Pumpkin can be a fantastic addition to your dog’s diet, but it’s important to prepare it correctly. 

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Cooked Pumpkin is Best

Pumpkin is most beneficial for dogs when it’s cooked - you can bake, boil or steam it. Avoid raw pumpkin as it can be hard to digest and may become a choking hazard. 

Skip the Seeds

Pumpkin seeds do contain nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, but dogs' digestive systems don’t break down the seeds very well and they typically pass through undigested. A few are not a cause for concern, but too many can cause an upset stomach. They can also present a choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs. So, we’d recommend avoiding feeding seeds to dogs. 

Be Careful with the Skin

Some types of pumpkin have edible skins, but even these can be difficult for some dogs to digest. It’s best to remove the skin before feeding pumpkin to your dog to avoid potential digestive discomfort.

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Why Pumpkin is a Great Addition to Your Dog's Diet

Pumpkin isn’t just tasty—it’s full of benefits that can boost your dog’s health. Here’s what makes it so special:

1. Packed with Essential Nutrients
   Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, which promotes healthy vision and immune function, and vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with tissue repair. It also contains potassium, important for muscle and heart health, and beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and supports skin health. These nutrients make pumpkin a valuable addition to your dog’s diet, supporting overall health and well-being​.
2. Rich in Fiber for Healthy Digestion
   Pumpkin is loaded with dietary fiber, making it an excellent natural remedy for both constipation and diarrhea. Its soluble fiber helps absorb water, firming up loose stools, while the insoluble fiber keeps the digestive system moving smoothly, preventing constipation. Adding a little pumpkin to your dog’s meals can help regulate digestion and promote a happy, healthy gut​.
3. Supports Urinary Health
   Pumpkin's antioxidant properties can help maintain a healthy urinary tract. It also acts as a natural diuretic, flushing out toxins and supporting kidney function​.
4. Promotes Weight Control
   Pumpkin is low in calories but high in fiber, making it an ideal addition for dogs needing help managing their weight. The fiber helps your dog feel fuller for longer, reducing the risk of overeating while still providing essential nutrients​.

How Much Pumpkin Should You Give Your Dog?

When it comes to feeding your dog pumpkin, moderation is key. For smaller dogs, we recommend around 1 teaspoon of pumpkin per day. Larger dogs, on the other hand, can enjoy up to 2 tablespoons. It’s always best to introduce pumpkin gradually and monitor your dog’s digestion to ensure it agrees with them.

Pumpkin in Nutrivore meals

From our range of fresh meals, you’ll find pumpkin in our popular Balanced Beef recipe.

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The combination of nutrient-dense beef and fiber-rich pumpkin provides the perfect balance of protein and healthy digestion support.

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It’s a great choice for dogs of all sizes and life stages, whether they need a little digestive help or just a tasty, nutritious meal.