What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Feed My Dog?
Plain, canned pumpkin is the healthiest choice for your dog. Both fresh and canned pumpkin are good sources of nutrients and fiber, but canned pumpkin contains a higher concentration of fiber and nutrients compared to fresh pumpkin. This is because fresh pumpkin has higher water content than canned pumpkin. However, canned pumpkin with added salt, spices, sugar, or other additives can irritate your dog’s stomach further, counteracting the beneficial effects of the pumpkin.
If you can’t get canned pumpkin, a good alternative is pumpkin powder, made specifically for pets. Note that you should NEVER use canned pumpkin pie mix, as it may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
Clubs Offering:
AKC is a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to akc.org. If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale.
Every dog suffers from diarrhea at least once in their lifetime. And every dog owner knows how messy, smelly, and uncomfortable it is—for the dog and for humans.
Here is the scoop on the health benefits of feeding pumpkin to dogs with diarrhea, so that you can help get your dog back on track.
Before you reach for that can of pumpkin, you first need to figure out the cause of your dog’s diarrhea.
Diarrhea is one of those symptoms that pops up for all kinds of diseases and infections, from parasites to parvo. Your dog’s diarrhea could be a sign of serious, even fatal illness, or it could be something as simple as a mild upset stomach.
Just like us, dogs can get diarrhea from stress or a change in their diets. These mild cases of diarrhea normally resolve on their own, and you can help by adding a dietary supplement like pumpkin or feeding a mild diet designed for upset, canine tummies, such as a homemade bland diet made of three parts white rice to one part protein, such as boiled skinless or boneless chicken, or a prescription bland diet.
If your dog is suffering from consistent diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, you should take them to see your veterinarian. Puppy diarrhea is especially concerning and should always be treated as a potential emergency, just in case it is a serious illness. Once your veterinarian has diagnosed your dog and suggested a treatment plan for the cause, however, pumpkin can be a helpful supplement to get your dog’s diarrhea under control.
Carved Pumpkins Are a No-Go
Don’t recycle an old Jack O’Lantern as a snack for your dog! Carved pumpkins, especially ones that have been sitting outside for a while, can breed mold and bacteria, which can make your beloved pet pretty sick (and that’s scary).
Why You Should Feed Pumpkin To Your Dog
We think about bright and beautiful pumpkin in fall (Lattes! Breads! Pies!) but with its superfood status it’s a vegetable to eat-up year round. But is it safe for you to feed to your dog? Yes, pumpkin is safe for dogs to eat and contains lots of beneficial nutrients that can help with everything from a shinier coat to better eyesight. However, too much of even a good thing isn’t good for your pup. Here’s what you need to know about feeding pumpkin to your dog and the best ways to dish it up.
Pumpkins are a healthy treat, loaded with nutrients, fiber and other good things for dogs too.