Pumpkin For Dogs

Pumpkin, a beloved fall favourite for humans, also offers numerous benefits for our furry friends. When it comes to canine health, pumpkin can be a natural and versatile addition to your dog's diet.

What are the benefits of feeding my dog pumpkin?

There are a huge variety of benefits of feeding your dog pumpkin. Some of these include:

1. Digestive Health: Pumpkin is rich in fiber, which can help regulate your dog's digestive system. Whether your pet is experiencing constipation or diarrhea, pumpkin can help firm up their stool or soften it, promoting regularity.

2. Weight Management: As a low-calorie food with high fiber content, pumpkin can be a helpful addition to your dog's diet if they need to shed a few pounds. The fiber can help your pet feel full longer, reducing their overall caloric intake.

3. Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin is packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E, as well as important minerals like potassium and iron. These nutrients can help support your dog's immune system, vision, skin, and coat health.

4. Hydration: Canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is a great way to add moisture to your dog's diet. This can be especially beneficial for dogs who may not drink enough water or who are on a dry kibble diet.

5. Joint Health: The beta-carotene and antioxidants found in pumpkin have anti-inflammatory properties that can help promote joint health, making it a great addition for older dogs or those with arthritis.

6. Dental Health: Chewing on raw, frozen, or dehydrated pumpkin can help clean your dog's teeth and freshen their breath. This can be a natural way to support your dog's dental hygiene.

Pumpkin Seeds

Feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs can also provide a variety of health benefits. Pumpkin seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can support your dog's well-being. Here are some benefits of feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs:

1. Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin seeds are high in essential nutrients such as protein, fiber, iron, magnesium, and zinc. These nutrients can help support your dog's immune system, promote healthy skin and coat, and aid in overall health and vitality.

2. Parasite Protection: Pumpkin seeds contain an amino acid called cucurbitin, which has been shown to have anti-parasitic properties. Feeding your dog pumpkin seeds regularly can help prevent and expel intestinal parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms.

3. Digestive Health: The fiber content in pumpkin seeds can aid in digestion and promote gastrointestinal health in dogs. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can alleviate constipation or diarrhea.

4. Dental Health: The act of crunching on pumpkin seeds can help naturally clean your dog's teeth, reducing plaque buildup and promoting better oral hygiene.

How to prepare pumpkin seeds at home

When feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs, it's essential to ensure they are prepared and served in a safe and appropriate manner. Here's how you can prepare pumpkin seeds for your furry friend:

1. Remove the Seeds: When carving or cooking with pumpkins, scoop out the seeds from the pumpkin flesh. Make sure to separate the seeds from the stringy pulp, as the pulp can be difficult for your dog to digest.

2. Rinse and Dry: Once you have collected the seeds, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any traces of pulp or residue. After rinsing, pat them dry with a paper towel or kitchen cloth. Remove the white outer shell from the seeds by laying them flat and rolling a rolling pin over them.

3. Roast the Seeds: Preheat your oven to around 300°F (150°C). Place the cleaned and dried pumpkin seeds on a baking sheet in a single layer. You can optionally drizzle a small amount of ghee or coconut oil over the seeds. Roast the seeds for about 30-40 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

4. Cool and Store: Allow the roasted pumpkin seeds to cool completely before grounding them in a coffee grinder or blender and storing them. You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few weeks or in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life.

How can I feed Pumpkin to my dog?

When adding pumpkin to your dog's diet, it's essential to do so in moderation. Too much pumpkin can lead to digestive upset or an imbalance in their diet. We recommend 2 Teaspoons per 10kg of body weight for pumpkin and for pumpkin seeds, 1/2 teaspoon per 10 kg of body weight.

Out of season, a lot of stores offer canned pumpkin. These can be a great alternative as long as the product is 100% pure pumpkin with no added ingredients. Brands like Libby’s and Baking Buddy offer pure pumpkin.

Alternatively, brands such as Fettle and Hackney dog house sell powdered pumpkin which can be rehydrated into a puree by adding water.