Pumpkin isn’t just a Halloween favourite – it’s a superfood for dogs too! Packed with nutrients and bursting with health benefits, pumpkin can be a tasty and wholesome addition to your dog’s diet. Here’s why dogs love it and how you can include it in their meals.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Pumpkin is more than a tasty snack. It’s loaded with essential nutrients:
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Rich in fibre – Great for digestion, it helps with both constipation and diarrhoea.
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Full of vitamins – Vitamin A supports eye health, and Vitamin C boosts their immune system.
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Low in calories – Perfect for weight management.
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Natural hydration – Pumpkin is about 90% water, keeping your dog hydrated.
Helps With Tummy Troubles
If your dog has an upset stomach, pumpkin can help. The soluble fibre absorbs excess water in the digestive system, firming up stools. At the same time, it encourages regular bowel movements for constipated pups.
Supports Weight Management
For dogs on a diet, pumpkin is a low-calorie filler. You can replace a small portion of their regular food with pumpkin to help them feel full while cutting back on calories.
How to Feed Pumpkin to Your Dog
There are plenty of easy ways to add pumpkin to your dog’s meals:
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Pureed pumpkin – Choose plain, unsweetened pumpkin puree (not pie filling).
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Fresh pumpkin – Cook and mash it for a fresh option.
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Pumpkin treats – Look for dog-safe biscuits or chews with pumpkin.
Tip: Start with a small amount (a tablespoon for small dogs, 2–4 tablespoons for larger breeds) to see how your dog reacts.
What to Avoid
While pumpkin is safe, keep these tips in mind:
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Skip the spices – Pumpkin pie filling and spiced pumpkin can harm dogs.
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Watch for allergies – If your dog shows signs of discomfort, stop feeding it immediately.
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Don’t overdo it – Too much pumpkin can cause loose stools.
Fun Pumpkin Recipes for Dogs
Get creative with pumpkin in the kitchen! Try:
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Frozen pumpkin cubes – Mix pumpkin with yoghurt and freeze.
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Pumpkin dog biscuits – Bake with oat flour and a touch of peanut butter.
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Pumpkin meal topper – Add a dollop of pumpkin to their kibble.
