Pumpkins are a true sign of autumn. Whenever the leaves begin to fall, the round orange gourds adorn people’s doorways and windows and there is an abundance of festive foods packed full of pumpkin.
So when Halloween season rolls around and you start carving your jack o’ lanterns, you may find yourself wondering ’can dogs eat pumpkin?
As a dog owner, you often find yourself asking questions about fruits dogs can eat such as 'Is it safe for them to try a bit?’ Keep reading to find out all you need to know about dogs and pumpkin.
Can dogs eat pumpkin?
Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin and it is actually often added to dog foods. Check the label of some dog treats and you may find pumpkin on the ingredient list there too. However, if you are feeding fresh pumpkin, you will need to be careful about which part you’re feeding as the stem and leaves are covered in prickly hairs.
These can cause irritation to your dog’s mouth and throat and may be harmful if ingested. Avoid offering the skin of pumpkins – if chunks are bitten off, they may present a choking hazard and if swallowed, there is a risk of gut obstruction.
Can dogs eat canned pumpkin?
Yes, canned pumpkin is fine for your dog to eat as long as it’s plain. Avoid pumpkin blends and mixes such as pumpkin pie filling as this will contain ingredients such as nutmeg and cinnamon which could make your dog unwell.
Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?
Cooked pumpkin seeds are fine for your dog to eat and make a healthy and tasty snack. On top of this your dog will probably like the crunchy texture. Caution should be taken when feeding pumpkin seeds to small dogs though as they may pose a choking hazard.
Is pumpkin good for dogs?
However, pumpkin may be able to help the digestion of those with issues such as constipation and diarrhoea as it’s high in fibre and can add bulk to stools. Speak to your vet before offering your dog pumpkin for this purpose though, and it’s safest to ask for their advice anyway, especially if your four-legged friend has a sensitive stomach.
How can I feed pumpkin to my dog?
If you’re thinking about adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet or offering some as a snack, it is a good idea to check with your vet first to see if pumpkin is suitable for them. If you get the ok from your vet, try offering your dog a small amount first to see if they like it. Pumpkin purée (unsweetened), plain canned or freshly baked pumpkin are all fine for your dog to eat. We recommend avoiding raw though as without cooking, it is a bit harder for dogs to digest.
Now you know the answer to ‘can dogs eat pumpkin’! Want to find out about more foods your canine can and can’t eat? Learn if dogs can eat watermelon, next.
Explore our dog brands:
Related articles:
