Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs? Best Ways to Enjoy

Pumpkin isn’t just for baked goods—it’s a versatile ingredient you may keep in your kitchen year-round! Whether you’re preparing a seasonal snack or just using that sweet, earthy flavor in your everyday routine, many furry friends would be more than happy to sneak a taste. But can dogs indulge in pumpkin? How about the seeds? Let’s explore how you can satisfy your pup! 

So, Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs? 

Yes! Pumpkin is good for dogs as long as it’s cooked, plain, and given in moderation. In fact, it’s considered a superfood due to its high levels of beta carotene, potassium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Pumpkin is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy way to put an enticing twist on your dog’s treat time. 

One of pumpkin’s greatest benefits is the role it plays in helping regulate digestion. This squash offers high amounts of fiber, which helps with issues like diarrhea and constipation. Fiber also helps dogs feel full and can keep them from overeating. 

Even though pumpkin offers lots of wholesome benefits, you should still only feed it to your pooch in moderation; too much can make them feel sick! 

Can Dogs Have Raw Pumpkin? 

Although it’s not the worst thing if your dog sneaks a bite of raw pumpkin, it’s best to avoid feeding it this way. Raw pumpkin can pose a choking hazard and is not as easily digestible as cooked varieties. Large amounts of this raw squash can lead to an intestinal blockage, so make sure you don’t leave uncooked pumpkin lying around for your pup to discover. 

Can Dogs Have Pumpkin Pie? 

No. You should never give pumpkin pie or canned pumpkin with added ingredients to your dog. These varieties often contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. They may also have additives that can upset your dog’s stomach, such as salt, sugar, and spices (especially nutmeg). 

🐶 Related: Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potato on Thanksgiving?

Can Dogs Have Pumpkin Seeds? 

Similar to cooked pumpkin, dogs can have pumpkin seeds occasionally as long as they don’t contain any added ingredients. These delicious little snacks have many benefits, offering a great source of protein, fiber, zinc, magnesium and copper.

While you can feed your dog individual seeds, you can also grind them up and sprinkle over their food instead—especially if they’re a picky eater! If you do decide to give your dog whole seeds, just be sure to offer one seed at a time to prevent choking. Whether or not you leave the shells on is up to you. 

What Are the Best Ways to Prepare Pumpkin for Dogs? 

You can be simple, creative, or downright imaginative when it comes to feeding your dog pumpkin! Here are some of the most popular ways to add this superfood to your furry friend’s treating schedule. 

👨‍🍳 Stuff a pumpkin-inspired recipe in their toys: Why not unleash your inner chef? You can find many dog treat recipes calling for pumpkin, which are perfect for stuffing inside dog treat toys! This is not only a fun way to give your dog pumpkin, but an enriching activity that will keep them busy! 

🥄 Mix pumpkin into their food: The simplest way dogs can have pumpkin is to add a scoop of canned pumpkin puree to their kibble. How much pumpkin your pup should have depends on their size; most dogs under 30 pounds can enjoy a tablespoon or two while dogs on the larger side can have a few more tablespoons. Treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s overall diet, so only put pumpkin in their food as an occasional indulgence. 

🦴 Give them pumpkin dog treats: You can make your own pumpkin dog treats or find some at the store. If your pooch likes other classic savory-sweet flavors, try some peanut butter dog treats to mix things up! 

A Little Pumpkin for Your Little Pumpkin 

A simple, healthy snack will make your dog appreciate you even more! There are many ways dogs can have pumpkin in their food, whether you want to help them eat healthier or just reward them with a yummy treat. 

Interested in other nutritious human foods your pup can enjoy? Check out these healthy dog snacks and recipes!