Pumpkin for your pup
Fall; when the leaves change, the air gets crisp, and the beloved pumpkin spice gets released. The question is, can your pup also enjoy the delicious flavor of pumpkin this season? The short answer is yes, of course they can! Check out this fantastic way to prepare pumpkin for your pup.
Can Your Pup Eat Pumpkin?
Pumpkin is a fantastic treat, and add-on to meals for your furry companion. Not only is pumpkin packed with nutrients that are beneficial to your dog, but it is also a natural stomach soother.
Health Benefits Of Pumpkin For Your Pup
- Pumpkin can help balance out your dog’s digestive system. Not only can it relieve diarrhea, it can also aid in easing minor constipation.
- High in fiber, and natural prebiotics, pumpkin can help solidify your poopy pooch’s stool. It can also help to regulate their bowel movements over time.
- Pumpkin is high in vitamin a, c, and e which all contribute to your dog’s overall health.
- This flavorful fruit can also help in weight control due to being high in fiber and low in calories.
How To Serve Pumpkin To Your Dog
You can opt to prepare the pumpkin yourself. When pumpkin carving time comes around, make sure you pick up one or two extras to prepare for your pet. To do this you want to hollow out your pumpkin, making sure to get all of the seeds out (if you are feeling super ambitious, save the seeds and make yourself a little treat as well).
Next, cut and roast the pumpkin in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Let it completely cool, and blend into a puree. This pumpkin mixture can be saved in the refrigerator for use over a few days, or frozen in an ice cube tray for quick, easy to use portions. It’s important to note that you do not want to recycle your Jack o’Lanterns for your dog’s dinner. Carved pumpkins that have been sitting outside are susceptible to mold, and other bacteria.
The other option is to buy pumpkin puree that is already prepackaged. You want to make sure that whenever you are serving your dog pumpkin, that it is in fact pure pumpkin. You can purchase canned pumpkin at most local grocery stores year round. Be sure not to grab pumpkin pie filling though; this is loaded with additives, and sugar which is a big no-no. Also, look out for added ingredients like xylitol (a sugar alternative), which can be harmful to Fido. Not only is canned pumpkin more convenient, it is actually higher in nutrients due to it having less water content than fresh pumpkins.
How Much Pumpkin Can You Feed Your Dog?
There is no perfect number when it comes to feeding your dog pumpkin. If you are planning on giving your dog pumpkin occasionally to aid in constipation or diarrhea then anywhere from one to four tablespoons is more than enough. If you want to add pumpkin into their diet daily, then aim for one to two tablespoons for large dogs, and one teaspoon for smaller pups.
It is also a good idea to introduce pumpkin into your dog’s diet gradually. Any time you are switching a pet’s food, you want to do so a little at a time to make sure they react well to it, and do not end up with any stomach upset.
- Pumpkin can be high in sodium, and is high in fiber so make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water.
- Even though vitamin A is beneficial, the saying too much of a good thing can ring true. Always err on the side of caution when introducing pumpkin and start with a less is more attitude.
- If you are unsure how much pumpkin is suitable for your dog, you can always reach out and ask your vet. Not all dogs are the same, and while pumpkin may help clear up one dog’s digestive issues, it may not work the same on another.
While you sip at your pumpkin spice, your dog will surely enjoy the added benefits (and delicious flavor) of pumpkin in their own diet. Whether daily, or on occasion your dog is going to love their own fall treat.
