We all know the feeling of Halloween being just around the corner and Autumn fast approaching. And a lot of the time, that feeling is combined with the scent of pumpkin and pumpkin-based foods surrounding us.
While most of us can never say no to a pumpkin spice latte, this begs the question, can I feed pumpkin to my dog?
The answer is yes, pumpkin is an excellent snack for dogs and offers a lot of fiber and other nutritious compounds that can keep them in tip-top shape! According to PetMD, pumpkin is one of the ingredients in the healthy food checklist that they have listed.
On top of that, a pumpkin is very easy to find, and all you have to do is head over to your local grocery store to find a pumpkin to feed your dog. But how much pumpkin can you feed your dog? And can you feed pumpkin in all forms or you should prepare it in specific ways to not hurt your pet’s tummy?
The answer to this question depends on a number of things, including the size of your pet. To help you out, we’ve compiled a quick guide to feeding your dog pumpkin, including the recommended dosage, preparation, and health benefits!
Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs?
Yes! Pumpkin is a great treat that many dogs find tasty. On top of that, it also has a lot of health benefits. With that said, Spot & Tango says dogs can eat pumpkin, but not all in all forms. While pumpkin puree is just fine for your pet, you have to make sure that it’s free of additives and sugars, which can spell serious health issues down the line. So, when feeding your dog pumpkin, keep it as simple and natural as possible.
How Much Pumpkin Should I Feed My Dog?
The amount of pumpkin you should feed your dog largely varies depending on their size. The larger your dog is, the more pumpkin they can handle. Generally, vets recommend only serving your dog between one to four tablespoons of pumpkin per meal.
Remember, the pumpkin has a fair amount of fiber in it. In proper amounts, fiber can help regulate your dog’s metabolism and digestive system. However, too much of it can have the opposite effect and cause diarrhea and other complications.
When you start feeding pumpkin to your dog, start in small doses to see how they react, and slowly raise it from there. And if you ever have concerns about feeding your dog pumpkin, we always recommend consulting your vet, as they know best.
How To Feed Pumpkin to Dogs
The best way to feed your dog pumpkin is to cook it and then mash it. Alternatively, you can also put it in the blender or food processor to turn it into a puree. However, always remember to take out the seeds before blending the pumpkin. If you plan on feeding your dog pumpkin seeds, you have to peel, wash, and roast them beforehand.
Once you have a pumpkin puree, you can add a couple of spoons to your dog’s dish whenever you want. You can even use canned pumpkin, just make sure that there are no added ingredients and preservatives!
Why Should I Feed My Dog Pumpkin?
Pumpkins are packed with micronutrients, fiber, and vitamins that are all great for your dog’s health! In the right amount, it can improve their digestion and overall health. On top of that, many dogs find a pumpkin to be a very sweet treat, making it a great natural and healthy choice for dog owners everywhere!
