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Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Updated on July 18, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team
pumpkins

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin in moderation. We tend to think of pumpkin as being synonymous with jack-o'-lanterns and pumpkin pie, but it’s also a very healthy food in its own right—for humans and dogs. Be sure to consult your veterinarian before adding new foods to your pup’s diet to ensure it’s an appropriate occasional treat for your pet.

Health benefits of pumpkin

One of the primary benefits of pumpkin is as a source of fiber to help regulate bowel movements. Yet as with any food outside your dog's normal high-quality, AAFCO-approved dog food, moderation is key and there are some important precautions to keep in mind.

Pumpkin is also full of vitamins and nutrients. Some of the health benefits of pumpkin include:

  • Vitamin A for vision and immune system
  • Vitamin C for collagen synthesis and overall immune health
  • Antioxidants bind to and reduce or eliminate tissue-damaging free radicals that form as cells age Calcium for strong teeth and bones
  • Iron for healthy blood and flow of oxygen at the cellular level
  • Lutein for healthy eyes, skin and hair
  • Pumpkin pulp can be a low-calorie alternative to high-calorie dog treats
  • Soluble and insoluble fiber support the digestive system

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What does pumpkin do for dogs?

Pumpkin is full of fiber which may have similar health benefits to your dog as it does for humans. Appropriate amounts of fiber can help your dog feel full longer without as many calories. The fiber in pumpkin may also help regulate water retention, aid in the uptake of nutrients and encourage the growth of helpful bacteria in the gut.

Is canned pumpkin good for diarrhea in dogs?

Talk to your vet about offering pumpkin for dogs' upset stomachs, pumpkin for dog constipation or diarrhea. The fiber in pumpkin may be helpful in these situations. Fiber can play an important role in establishing a healthier digestive tract and more regular bowel movements for your dog. Just be sure only to feed pumpkin in moderation or as recommended by your veterinarian.

» MORE: Learn about fruits and vegetables that dogs can and cannot eat.

How to feed pumpkin to your dog

One of the best ways to serve pumpkin to your dog is to bake and puree it first. The steps are relatively easy, and one pumpkin generally provides more than enough for you and your dog.

If you’re starting with a raw pumpkin instead of canned or prepared, here are the steps to puree your pumpkin:

  • Preheat your oven to 350 °F
  • Wash the pumpkin and cut it into quarters
  • Scoop out the seeds and cut the quarters into 1-inch pieces
  • Place pumpkin pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Bake for about 45 minutes or until tender when tested with a fork
  • Let the pieces cool and remove the baked pumpkin skin
  • Puree the pieces in the blender, gradually adding water as you go until the pumpkin is the consistency of baby food or apple sauce

 

You can then serve the puree to your dog as a special treat or mix a small amount in with their regular food. If you’re wondering how much is appropriate for your pup, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance and remember to always start small when offering your pet a new food. It might be fun for them if you smear the puree inside a bone or treat-dispensing toy like a Kong for them to lick out. You can also freeze the puree in one-cup containers or in an ice cube tray to save and defrost later.

What can I mix with pumpkin for my dog?

Do not add any additional ingredients other than water when making pumpkin puree for dogs. Always avoid any spices, flavorings or oils. Even a little bit of salt can be dehydrating for your dog, and extra oil is not healthy and an unnecessary source of calories.

If pureeing a pumpkin seems like a lot of work, you can also save yourself the trouble and serve your dog canned pumpkin. When you serve canned pumpkin for dogs, check the label to ensure there are no additional ingredients besides pumpkin and water. In addition to oils and spices, canned pumpkin may also contain sugar, which is unhealthy for dogs. It can lead to an upset stomach in the short run and obesity and/or diabetes if your dog overeats sugar on a regular basis.

When you look at the label, also keep a careful eye out for an ingredient called xylitol. It’s a popular sugar substitute that can be especially toxic to dogs. 

When feeding your dog pumpkin—or any treats or food on top of their regular dog food—use the 10% rule to gauge how much is appropriate for your dog. The rule dictates that no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake should come from all treats and snacks, not limited to pumpkin. Consult your veterinarian for help determining the appropriate amount if you are interested in adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet on occasion.

The last thing to keep in mind when feeding your dog pumpkin is that it's not at all necessary for their diet. The best diet for your dog is to stick with high-quality dog food chosen with the guidance of your vet. Your dog can live a long and healthy life without ever having a single bite of pumpkin.

Featured Dog Food and Treats with Pumpkin

FAQs about feeding your dog pumpkin

Avoid feeding your dog pumpkin skin. The skin itself can be a choking hazard for your dog and can potentially cause gastrointestinal issues or blockage in their digestive tract. If your dog does manage to eat pumpkin skin, monitor them closely and contact your veterinarian if you perceive any problems. 

Pumpkin seeds are not recommended for your dog. They aren’t believed to be toxic, but your dog’s digestive system is not suited for seeds. Also, the seeds could be a potential choking hazard, especially for smaller dogs.

Yes. Cooked and pureed or canned pumpkin is generally safe for dogs to eat and includes vitamins, minerals and fiber. The fiber may be helpful for your dog’s digestive system during times of diarrhea or constipation, but always consult your veterinarian if any symptoms are present and before making a diet change.

Dogs can eat quite a bit of pumpkin, as it’s low in calories and high in nutrients, but keep it within reason. Even with the health benefits, pumpkin should be regarded as a small, occasional treat. As a general rule, all treats offered should be 10% or less of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

Petco has some excellent options for pumpkin dog food and treats. If you decide to serve pumpkin to your dog, discuss how much and how often you should offer pumpkin to your pet with your veterinarian and mix it in with their high-quality dog food

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