Every fall, pumpkin takes over: lattes, breads, pies, porches. Many dog owners have also heard that pumpkin can be good for dogs. Plain pumpkin can be a safe treat for many dogs in small amounts, but the details matter. Here is what to know before sharing.
Check with your veterinarian before adding any new food to your dog’s routine, and especially before using pumpkin to address a digestive issue. Ongoing diarrhea, constipation or vomiting needs a vet visit, not a home remedy.
Plain pumpkin versus pie filling
The difference between these two cans on the grocery shelf is important:
- Plain canned pumpkin contains just cooked pumpkin. This is the type most often suggested for dogs.
- Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices, and some products may contain other ingredients that are not good for dogs. Skip it.
Read labels carefully. Some sugar-free or “lite” products may contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. If the ingredient list has anything beyond pumpkin, do not share it.
Fresh pumpkin that you cook yourself, with no salt, butter, oil or spices, is another option. Remove the skin, stem and stringy pulp, and serve it plain and cooled.
How much to offer
Pumpkin is rich in fiber, and a little goes a long way. Too much can cause stomach upset. Start with a small spoonful mixed into food or served as a treat, and treat it as part of your dog’s daily treat allowance. Your veterinarian can suggest an amount that makes sense for your dog’s size and health.
What about pumpkin seeds?
Some people offer pumpkin seeds that have been cleaned, roasted plain and ground or chopped. Seeds served with salt, butter, oil or seasonings should be avoided. Whole seeds can be hard to digest for some dogs. If you are curious about seeds, ask your veterinarian first.
Decorative pumpkins and jack-o’-lanterns
Pumpkins that sit outside as decorations are not snacks. Once carved, they begin to break down and can grow mold quickly, especially in mild, damp weather. Moldy food can make dogs sick. Uncarved decorative pumpkins and gourds can also be hard for dogs to digest if they chew off large pieces, and stems can be a choking hazard.
- Place porch pumpkins where your dog cannot chew them.
- Throw out carved pumpkins once they start to soften or show mold.
- Keep candles in jack-o’-lanterns away from curious noses and wagging tails, or use battery-operated lights instead.
A seasonal treat, kept simple
Pumpkin can be a fun way to include your dog in the season. Try a dab of plain puree in a food puzzle, or frozen in a lick mat on a warm October afternoon. Keep it plain, keep it small, and check with your vet if you have any questions about how it fits your dog’s diet.
