10 Amazing Health Benefits Pumpkin for Dogs

We consider pumpkin a superfood with Amazing health benefits of pumpkin for dogs.

If you've ever had a dog, you've probably dealt with some digestive upsets.

My goldendoodle Ruby wound up giardia as a puppy. Giardia's symptoms are often diarrhea. I had taken her to a dog park, where she drank out of a community water bowl and bam! Diarrhea.

While she was on some medications. I wound up putting her on a strict diet of rice, chicken and pumpkin to help control the diarrhea. If your dog has diarrhea you can find some recipes for dogs diarrhea.

After having to deal with the runs in both dogs, I did some research into pumpkin for dogs and why it's so healthy.

Why Pumpkin for Dogs has Health Benefits

A cure for dogs upset stomach problems. Basically, it's like us taking a fiber supplement. I consider it a pet superfood!

In dogs, either canned or dried pumpkin is a terrific source of fiber for our pets. It also helps with digestive regularity.

Pumpkin is full of fiber rich Vitamins A, E and C, plus it includes potassium and iron.

If your dog has been experiencing diarrhea or constipation, mixing a teaspoon or tablespoon into their food will relieve these symptoms. Their stomachs will love the taste of pumpkin.

How does Pumpkin help my Dogs Digestive Health?

1. If your dog has diarrhea - it will help in firming up the stool. The soluble fiber helps to absorb the excess liquid.
2. If your dog has constipation - pumpkin will help to add bulk and soften the stool. It acts like a natural laxative, allowing the stool to pass easier.
3. Helps to maintain a dog's regularity - a significant source of fiber and vitamins. Pumpkin includes potassium and vitamins A, E and C.

Using Pumpkin to Treat Diarrhea

It's always best to start small with adding pumpkin, especially if your dog has diarrhea.

For a small dog, a ½ teaspoon to start will do. You can over time increase it to one full teaspoon.

For a larger dog, it's best to begin with a tablespoon of pumpkin. We can increase this to 2 tablespoons.

Can my Dog eat Pumpkin Seeds?

Absolutely! The seeds contain healthy oils, great for our dogs!

You can crush or grind the pumpkin seeds directly into your dog's bowl.

Or you enjoy them and share them with your dog by crushing them into your dog's bowls.

Can my Dog have Pumpkin every day?

You betcha! Yes, you can! In fact, it's healthy for our dogs.

Giving your dog a teaspoon or two a day will help to regulate your dog's bowels.

And an even better bonus, a healthy, shiny texture to your dog's coat.

How can I serve Pumpkin to my Dogs?

I love experimenting with getting pumpkin into my two dogs. Here are some fun ways I've tried:

Add pumpkin into a Kong - I love to use both canned ( not pumpkin pie filling), or even dried pumpkin for dogs. You can man it with a bit of banana or plain, unsweetened yogurt.

Try peanut butter for some extra fun! Mask the ingredients into the Kong and freeze it. Serve it to your dog. Trust me, they'll be a happy camper.

Doggie Pumpkin Ice Cream - Oh boy, my dogs see these silicone dog trays coming out of the freezer and they are jumping all over the place.

Use some pumpkin, banana or yogurt, mash it all together. Scoop it into a fun dog silicone tray like these and your dogs will be in heaven.

Dinner Topper - This is my favorite way. I take a ½ teaspoon for my small dog, Ruby.

A tablespoon for Callie, my large dog, and simply plop it down on top of their dog food. They scarf it down in no time flat!

What kind of Pumpkin should I use?

While either canned or fresh pumpkin is great for your dog. Plain fresh pumpkin has more vitamins, nutrients, and ever fiber.

Canned pumpkin has a high water count, but still includes vitamins and nutrients. Plus, it's easier to get year round.

There's even a dry formula of pumpkin available for dogs.

How much Pumpkin should I feed my dog?

Small dog - a ½ teaspoon, no more than 1 teaspoon.

Large dog - 1 tablespoon, no more than 2 tablespoons.

4 more Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dog

Pumpkin is great for Urinary Health - Pumpkin seeds contain oil, which can help with incontinence. Pumpkin seeds are also wonderful for getting rid of kidney stones.

Pumpkin for a shiny coat - The fatty aides in pumpkin can leave your dog's coat shiny and healthy. Provides great texture to your dog.

Pumpkin for worms - I don't know about you, but the thought of worms grosses me out. Especially since my dogs sleep with me...Ewww...

By feeding a small teaspoon, it can control worms in dogs. We can use pumpkin seeds as a natural remedy for roundworms and tapeworms.

Pumpkin for losing weight - Pumpkin is healthy for us and our dogs in helping to feel full and replace some food. The pumpkin gourd is 90% water, which is hydrating and helps with weightless in dogs.

How can I make a Pumpkin Puree for Dogs?

Ingredients:

• 1 large ripe pumpkin
• baking sheet
• parchment paper
• pumpkin scooper
• large knife

Directions:

1. Wash the pumpkin.
2. Preheat oven to 350°.
3. Cut off the top of the pumpkin.
4. Cut the pumpkin into 4 equal pieces.
5. Using on ¼ of the pumpkin ( save the other 3 pieces for something else).
6. Scoop out the seeds.
7. Slice or cube the ¼ pumpkin into smaller pieces.
8. Place on the parchment paper on the baking sheet.
9. Bake for 45 minutes.
10. Remove from oven and cool.
11. Mash or place the pumpkin pieces into a blender to puree them into baby food consistency.
12. Feed to your dog!
13. Watch them enjoy!

FREE Printable recipe

10 Amazing Health Benefits Pumpkin for Dogs