Pumpkin for Dogs: A Cure for Dog Upset Stomach Problems
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Can I Give My Dog Pumpkin?
Yes, you can give your dog pumpkin. In fact, pumpkin can be a health-boosting addition to your dog’s diet, especially if using organic pumpkin.
Whether you have a big or small dog, pumpkin helps with a variety of issues, from upset stomach to improving the dog poop quality.
In simple words, pumpkin for dogs is a superfood you can easily find in the local supermarket or grocery store. Plus, it is affordable and easy to prepare.
However, not all pumpkin recipes are safe for dogs. Stick to homecooked and plain canned pumpkin versions. At the same time, avoid pumpkin pie fillings and pumpkin spice as they may contain potentially toxic ingredients.
Also, dispose of the pumpkin seeds before serving – they are not directly toxic to dogs but are hard to digest and may wreak havoc on the dog’s sensitive stomach.
How does Pumpkin for Dogs Work?
Pumpkin for dogs works by supporting digestive health because of its soluble fiber content and water content. It boosts the dog’s digestive system, prevents dog constipation and dog diarrhea. It also keeps the dog satiated, thus promoting weight loss.
Pumpkin for dogs is an excellent food choice as it is loaded with healthy nutrients, such as vitamin A (and beta-carotene), vitamin E, vitamin C, potassium, iron, zinc, calcium, etc. It is also loaded with dietary fiber, healthy fatty acids, and antioxidants for dogs.
- Provides optimal fiber doses for digestion support without any negative effects.
- Convenient replacement for canned pumpkin puree, customized for your dog's size.
- Contains organic pumpkin, pumpkin seed, and apple powders, delivering high fiber for digestive support and relief.
What are the Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs?
As a superfood, pumpkin for dogs comes with several health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of pumpkin for dogs:
- Promotes healthy gut. The soluble fiber content in pumpkin keeps the dog’s intestines moving thus preventing issues like constipation in dogs and dog diarrhea.
- Helps with weight loss. Pumpkin keeps dogs satiated for longer, which means it is good for dogs that need to lose a few extra pounds.
- Supports the immune system. Pumpkin for dogs is rich in vitamin C – a known immunity booster. Plus, a healthy gut often means a strong immune system.
- Boosts skin and coat health. Pumpkin for dogs is rich in vitamin A and fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin and a shiny coat.
- Prevents cellular damage. Loaded with vitamin E and antioxidants, pumpkin for dogs can help fight off free radicals and prevent oxidative damage.
Why Do Vets Recommend Pumpkin for Dogs?
Vets recommend pumpkin for dogs because it is health-boosting, safe, and affordable. The most important nutrient in pumpkin is dietary fiber.
Pumpkin contains both insoluble and soluble fiber. Soluble fiber can absorb excess water in the gastrointestinal tract that helps reduce and relieve diarrhea. Insoluble fiber draws water into the GIT. This makes the stool softer and bulkier, and easier to pass.
Dietary fiber acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics stimulate the growth and the activity of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) found in the dog’s digestive system.
Is Canned Pumpkin Safe for Dogs?
Yes, canned pumpkin is safe for dogs as long as it is plain. Pumpkin pie fillings, on the other hand, are not – they often contain xylitol.
Xylitol is a frequently used artificial sweetener. Sadly, it is extremely toxic to dogs. Unless managed in a timely manner, xylitol poisoning can be lethal.
Therefore, if using canned pumpkins, double-check the label to ensure it is plain and free from xylitol, pumpkin spice, or other potentially harmful additives.
What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Feed My Dog?
You can feed your dog fresh pumpkin (raw or better cooked) and plain canned pumpkin. You can also mix the raw pumpkin with certain dog-friendly ingredients and make tasty pumpkin dog treats.
If going for cooked pumpkin for dogs, there are several cooking options:
- Steam the pumpkin in a microwave steamer basket
- Bake the pumpkin in the oven for one hour at 350 °F (180°C)
- Boil the pumpkin until soft and tender for around 20 to 30 minutes
- Roast the pumpkin in a preheated oven for two hours.
Regardless of the cooking method, you prefer, make sure you are feeding the pumpkin flesh solely. Pumpkin seeds and the rind are not edible and must not be used.
Alternatively, you can use a pumpkin-based supplement. Here are some of our favorite high-quality pumpkin supplements for dogs.
Pumpkin Relief Powder Dog Supplement. Thanks to this supplement, you can be left without worrying about your pet’s stomach. With a signature blend of soluble and insoluble fibers, this helps to counter both constipation and diarrhea. Made with organic ingredients that are sourced in the USA, you can be sure that you are buying locally and supporting the local communities. The product is free from additives and preservatives. Just pour the measured content over dry kibble or serve plain. We can be sure that your pet will love this.
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Pumpkin Dog Food Supplement Pouches. Not just for dogs but also for cats, this pumpkin supplement makes the perfect addition to your pet’s food. Being highly delicious, you can be sure that your pet will fall in love with their food once again. This supplement is made with just two ingredients – pumpkin and water. Therefore, this makes the perfect dietary addition to your pet’s food to boost their digestive tract functioning. In addition to boosting digestive powers, the supplement contains antioxidants that support gut health. Just add the measured quantity to your pet’s daily food and see results almost immediately.
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Pumpkin Soft Chews for Dogs. This supplement is available in the form of soft chews and is ideal for dogs that are more than 12 weeks of age. In addition to pumpkin, the chews also contain a signature blend of natural ingredients such as Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, and Psyllium Husk. As a result, you can expect improved gut health and regulated bowel function. This is a tasty treat that will go well with your pet’s daily food intake and can be ideal for their gut function.
How Much Pumpkin Should I Give My Dog?
The amount of pumpkin you can give your dog depends on its size. Namely, small dogs can be fed one teaspoon, while large dogs can eat one or two tablespoons of pumpkin per day.
As with any other new food, start introducing pumpkin gradually. Adding something new to your dog’s diet leads to an upset stomach. Call the veterinarian if your dog has an adverse reaction to the pumpkin addition.
Is it OK to Give Your Dog Pumpkin Everyday?
Yes, it is OK to give your dog pumpkin on an everyday basis. However, keep in mind that moderation is the key, and dogs are carnivores, meaning they thrive on meat-based diets.
With that being said, it is safe to assume that pumpkin is an addition to the menu and not a staple. If using pumpkin for dogs more frequently, pay attention to your dog’s stool – this can tell you a lot about whether you need to decrease the feeding amount and frequency.
Here are some ideas on feeding pumpkin and how to successfully add this superfood to the menu:
- Fill a Kong with cooked pumpkin flesh or puree. Mix plain pumpkin puree with mashed bananas or peanut butter and stuff the mixture in a Kong or another stuffable toy.
- Make your pooch a pumpkin latte. Mix two tablespoons of pureed pumpkin and one tablespoon of yogurt into one cup of warm water. Blitz together and serve your dog.
- Treat your dog with pumpkin ice cream. Mix cooked pumpkin with banana, yogurt, and peanut butter, and then freeze the mixture in an ice tray.
- Bake delicious pumpkin dog treats. Mix cooked pumpkin flesh or plain canned pumpkin with grounded oats and peanut butter, mold treats, and bake them in the oven.
- Pour pumpkin gravy on your dog’s food. Add some pumpkin puree to low-sodium beef or chicken broth and pour this concoction over your dog’s dinner.