What type of pumpkin can dogs eat? Roasted? Canned? Raw?
Dogs can eat pumpkin, but not all in all forms. For example, it’s best to avoid raw pumpkin, pumpkin skin and the stem, as they’re hard for your pup to digest. Canned and roasted pumpkin, however, are fine as long as there aren’t added ingredients or spices, Dr. Bowens says. (Recipes for roasting pumpkin below.) In fact, the easiest way to serve up pumpkin is straight from the can. To know if it’s safe for your dog, look at the ingredients list. It should say “Certified Organic Pumpkin,” or just “Pumpkin.” (Like Farmer’s Market Foods Canned Organic Pumpkin or Whole Foods 365.) If there are other fillers in the ingredient list, don’t serve it to your pup.
Digestive Aid
Often, pumpkin is given to dogs as a digestive aid. It helps to soothe and regulate a dogs digestive system because of its high fiber content. This can help in two ways.
First, pumpkin can help make stools more solid and regular if your dog has diarrhea. The fiber acts as a prebiotic to promote the growth of good bacteria in your dogs gut. On the flip side, a dog suffering from constipation may gain some relief from pumpkin, as it can ease mild to moderate constipation.
Another way to maintain a healthy microbial balance in Fidos digestive system is by giving them a probiotic. Native Pets all-natural probiotic formula can help create a thriving environment for healthy flora in the gut.
Is Pumpkin Good for Constipated Dogs?
Yes, the fiber in pumpkin is also great for helping dogs with mild constipation have regular bowel movements. The fiber helps bulk up their stools, which make them pass more easily. But remember—moderation is key. Too much pumpkin can cause diarrhea.
If your dog is having severe constipation, contact your veterinarian right away.
Pumpkin pie is not a healthy or safe treat for your dog. Not only does it contain way too much sugar and salt for your pup, but it may also contain nutmeg and xylitol, which are both toxic to dogs.
If your dog accidentally eats some pumpkin pie, contact your veterinarian.
CAN DOGS EAT PUMPKINS? find out
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As we gear up for pumpkin-spice-everything season and decide which ingenious costume you’re going to dress Sparky up as this year (a black cat, duh), you may also be wondering “Can dogs eat pumpkin?” After all, it is the gourdiest ingredient of gourd season. But before you let Sparky go ham on that jack-o-lantern, we asked Dr. Priscilla Bowens, DVM, MPH, Esq. (aka @drpetnugget) and founder of PetNugget, a pet health education platform, can dogs eat pumpkin? Her answer? Yes…and no. Here, we explain.