I have always been a big fan of pumpkins. Eating them, carving them, growing them, cooking them. And recently, I’ve been making super easy pumpkin recipes for my dog with them!
They’re such versatile and delicious gourds! I was very excited to discover my pup Link loves squash of all shapes and sizes.
His love of pumpkin has opened up a world of new possibilities for me to enjoy pumpkins and it got me interested in the benefits Link could get from munching on pumpkin… other than taste of course.
The Magic of Pumpkin: Why It’s Great for Your Dog
Pumpkin is low in calories, but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
They are an excellent source of Vitamin A, which improves the skin and coat, promotes healthy eyes, and slows eye degeneration.
They also contain Vitamin C, which assists in joint health and mobility, and supports the immune system.
Antioxidants in pumpkins help slow the aging process and protect against inflammation and any diseases that may come with it.
Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, improves muscle health, and assists in metabolism.
Upset tummy? Feed Your Dog Pumpkin
Speaking of metabolism, pumpkins are very filling and can help your dog lose weight while still feeling full and satisfied.
Pumpkin is also a great treat for your dog when they have an upset tummy.
It’s rich in fiber and the fiber content in pumpkin soaks up excess liquid in the gut to help stop diarrhea. Fiber also acts as a prebiotic which stimulates activity of beneficial bacteria in the intestines while preventing the growth of harmful bacteria.
Pumpkin can be served fresh or from the can. Canned pumpkin has less water than fresh, so it’s a little better at stopping diarrhea.
But be careful not to purchase canned pumpkin pie filling, as it is filled with salt and sugars and can have adverse effects on your dog’s bowels.
Pumpkin is a Sustainable & Naturally Deworming Dog Treat
Fresh pumpkin can be eaten raw or baked, pureed or cubed. You can also make them into yummy treats!
It’s not just the meat of the pumpkin that can be eaten, but the seeds can also provide health benefits!
Pumpkin seeds contain cucurbitin, an amino acid that paralyzes and eliminates parasites from your dog’s digestive tract, and they can be used as a natural dewormer.
They can be eaten raw or baked, whole or ground up. They can be eaten as a tasty snack, or added to your dog’s meal. You can whip up easy pumpkin recipes in a flash.
Pumpkin is a pretty magical gourd. From a dewormer to a delicious, multifaceted meal! From a yummy prebiotic to a makeshift carriage you can take to the ball! (Ok, so maybe that last use is only good if you’re an aspiring princess, but still.) Spice up yours and your pup’s lives with some pumpkin!
Here are some easy pumpkin recipes that your dog will absolutely love:
Pumpkin Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups whole wheat or oat flour
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 TBSPs peanut or almond butter
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees
- Combine all ingredients
- Pour mixture into a muffin tin or silicone mold, or scoop dough balls onto parchment paper
- Bake for 25-30 minutes
Baked Pumpkin Seeds
- Rinse seeds in a strainer to remove any pumpkin guts
- Put seeds on a baking sheet or parchment paper to dry
- Preheat oven to 300 degrees
- Bake for 10-15 minutes
- Once they cool you can feed them whole or grind them up
- Seeds can be stored for future consumption
Pumpkin Popsicles
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin puree
- Nonfat plain yogurt
- 1 TBSP Coconut oil
Steps:
- Mix equal parts yogurt and pumpkin puree, and a TBSP of coconut oil
- Pour mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone mold
- Place in freezer until solid
Author: Dena Vogt
Dena has worked in animal care most of her life, specializing in dog care. She and her RottenChow Link own & operate Adventure Pup in Bend, OR