Top 3 Health Benefits Of Pumpkin For Your Dog

Pumpkin season is in full swing, and treats containing it are everywhere from pumpkin pie frappucinos to roasted pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin is packed with nutrition and linked to many health benefits, but can you share it with your pup?

It turns out; Pumpkin is not only okay to give your dog, but it also provides many of the same health benefits it does for you. Let’s take a look at the top three health benefits of pumpkin for your dog and the best way to serve it up.

1. Pumpkin Aides In Dogs Digestion

Aiding in digestion is only the beginning of the benefits for your dog. The fiber in pumpkin acts as a prebiotic, stimulating growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut and inhibiting harmful bacteria. The proper balance helps the digestive system work more efficiently and can also help with bouts of diarrhea.

Besides aiding in digestion, pumpkin is a great way to add tons of nutrients to your dog’s diet. It’s packed with beta-carotene, zinc, iron, vitamin A, E and C, and potassium. This combination of components helps boost your dog’s immunity as well.

2. Pumpkin Promotes Dogs Healthy Eyes

That’s right – Vitamin A in Pumpkin promotes good eye health in humans, and it’s the same for your dog. Not only does it help them develop properly, but it can also aid in avoiding eye degeneration.

Canned pumpkin is readily available in most grocery stores and can be a fantastic addition to your dogs’ overall diet. Be sure to read the labels carefully as many pumpkin pie fillings have added sugars and preservatives. You want to steer away from these. Plain pumpkin puree in a can or cooked fresh pumpkin is the healthy choice for your dog.

3. Pumpkin Helps Hydrate Your Dog

Many times dogs consume a dry food diet, which leaves them suffering from mild but chronic dehydration. Supplementing with pumpkin will add moisture to your dogs’ meals easily and naturally. The added water content, along with Vitamin A and zinc, helps improve their skin and coat. It’s an all-around win, and your furry friend will thank you.

How Much Pumpkin Is Okay To Give Your Dog?

Now that you know the health benefits of pumpkin for your dog, the question is, how much is okay to give them? The proper amount will vary for each dog based on health needs and weight, so its always best to check with your vet before serving up treats. A general rule of thumb is to keep treats of any kind within ten percent of your dog’s diet.

How To Prepare Pumpkin For Your Dog

It couldn’t be easier – Scoop and serve a little pumpkin right out of the can onto their food. For added yumminess, sprinkle with cinnamon or drizzle some honey over the top.

My two Soft Coated Wheaton Terriers, Rosie and Lily, absolutely love their pumpkin; anyway, they can get it. Straight from a can, premade treats, frozen delights, or nice and warm straight from the oven. Here’s a round-up of their top 10 favorites recipes.

Pumpkin, Peanut Butter Frozen Dog Treats

This frozen pumpkin, peanut butter dog treat, is one hundred percent Rosie approved. I keep them on hand for moments when I need her to act quickly and move to her bed (like when the mail carrier shows up and she wants to give her wheaten greeting). The minute I head for the freezer, she’s already sitting, waiting for her command. Thank you, House Fur, for making it that easy.

Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

Rosie and Lily have their very own glass jar bar filled with these delicious pumpkin cookies. They call for five simple ingredients that you probably already have in the pantry. 

No Bake Pumpkin Dog Treats

No-bake treats are the best! It is easy to whip up and no worries about baking, which makes these great for your little ones to prepare. I know mine always loved to help. Even picky pets will love these!

Pupcakes Dog Treats

I came across these adorable pupcakes when searching for a treat for Lily’s birthday. They were a hit, So I’ve been making them ever since. Aren’t they so darn cute! 

Pumpkin Dog Donuts

Fall and pumpkin donuts are the same things, right? I can’t help it; when I think about Fall, pumpkin donuts pop into my head 🤷🏻‍♀️. So why wouldn’t I make some for my fur babies? The preparation and baking time on these pumpkin dog donuts is longer than our recipe suggestions above, but according to Rosie and Lily, they are worth the work. 

Simple Healthy Pumpkin Gelatin Gummy Dog Treats

I didn’t even know dogs could have gelatin, did you? This recipe is super easy and made with chicken stock, so your dog will love them. Don’t forget to store these in your refrigerator. We keep our bottom draw just for Rosie and Lilly’s food and refrigerated treats. 

What are your dogs favorite treats? Have you tried any of these recipes? Drop me a comment below to let me know which ones your pup likes best.