Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Written by Crystal Moore | Last updated 31/10/24

Pumpkins are synonymous with Autumn, and as soon as Summer ends, various pumpkin recipes start popping up in shops, online and in advertisements. From the ever-popular pumpkin-spiced lattes to the classic pumpkin pies, it's hard to miss their presence.

But pumpkin recipes aren't just inclusive to us. More and more store-bought and homemade dog treats are incorporating this autumnal ingredient, making it less of a question of "Can dogs eat pumpkin?" to "Is it safe for dogs?" and "Are there certain parts of a pumpkin that a dog can't eat?".

Can dogs eat pumpkin?

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin! In fact, pumpkin can benefit your dog's health in many ways. You may have already seen a lot of dog foods and treats that contain this ingredient. Although pumpkin is safe, there are certain parts of a pumpkin that shouldn't be fed to dogs. You have to be especially careful with fresh pumpkins as parts of the pumpkin, such as the stem and leaves, can irritate your dog's mouth and throat.

When you start carving your pumpkins for Halloween, don't throw it out! You can bake the pumpkin flesh and skin, then serve it as-is or you can add it as an ingredient in a homemade dog treat recipe.

Is pumpkin good for dogs?

Absolutely! Pumpkin offers your dog a variety of health benefits. One benefit of pumpkin for dogs is that they're high in fibre, containing both soluble and insoluble fibre. This can help with mild constipation by adding bulk to your dog's stool, and it helps with diarrhoea by absorbing excess water. Moreover, pumpkin acts as a prebiotic, encouraging the growth of beneficial bacteria in your dog's gut.

Pumpkin is also packed with other essential and beneficial vitamins and minerals, such as:

Vitamin A: Supports your dog's vision, specifically their vision at night. Vitamin A supports their immune system and skin health, crucial for cell growth and reproduction.
Beta-carotene: A precursor to vitamin A that offers antioxidant benefits for cellular protection.
Vitamin C: Powerful antioxidant that boosts your dog's immunity, reduces inflammation and supports joint health through collagen production.
Vitamin E: Promotes healthy skin and coat, protects cells, and supports their heart health.
Potassium: Vital for muscle and nerve function, heart health, and fluid balance in your dog's body.
Iron: Essential for oxygen transport, energy production, and immune function, which helps to prevent anaemia, which causes fatigue in dogs.

On another note, it's crucial that pumpkin is fed as an occasional treat and shouldn't replace your dog's complete food. Their complete food is designed to be balanced and provide your dog with all the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy.

Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin seeds, but some preparation is advised to ensure safety. It's best to feed your dog pumpkin seeds after they've been cleaned and roasted in the oven. Roasted pumpkin seeds can be fed as soon as they're cool, but it's best to take into consideration the size of your dog first, as whole pumpkin seeds can be a choking hazard to smaller breeds.

Alternatively, you can grind or blend it down into a powder and sprinkle it on your dog's regular meals or on an enrichment mat, like a Lickimat.

There's a lot of nutrition packed into pumpkin seeds, which makes it a healthy treat for your dog. For instance, pumpkin seeds are rich in Omega 3 and contain minerals such as zinc and iron, which are especially beneficial to senior dogs. On the other hand, since pumpkin seeds are calorie-dense, they should be fed in moderation.

Can dogs eat raw pumpkin?

Dogs can eat raw pumpkin. However, there are concerns that you should be aware of before doing so. One concern is that raw pumpkin skin is tough for dogs to chew, which, unfortunately, can cause choking if you're not careful. Moreover, parts of the pumpkin, such as the stem and leaf, should be avoided as these can irritate your dog's mouth. If you can't resist those puppy-dog eyes and find yourself giving raw pumpkin to your dog, keep the pieces bite-sized and remove any seeds or stringy parts, as these can make it difficult for your dog to digest.

Similarly, some owners find that their dog struggles to digest raw foods but will be completely okay with cooked or dried foods. If your dog has the same struggles, it's best to cook the pumpkin to reduce the chances of upsetting your dog's stomach.

Ultimately, dogs can eat raw pumpkin, but it's safer to opt for cooked pumpkin.

Can dogs eat pumpkin skin?

It's best to offer cooked pumpkin skin over raw if you plan on giving your dog some as a treat. Raw pumpkin skin is tough and can cause your dog to choke, which is why it's advised to avoid it. If you're going to give your dog a piece of raw pumpkin with the skin, ensure the size of the piece is small enough to be bite-sized so that it won't become a choking hazard.

On the other hand, when you cook or roast the pumpkin skin, it becomes soft, making it easier for your dog to chew and digest.

Can dogs eat pumpkin flesh?

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin flesh, and it’s a nutritious treat! Pumpkin flesh is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support your dog’s digestion, immune health, and skin. Both cooked and raw pumpkin flesh are safe, though many dogs find cooked pumpkin easier to digest.

If feeding raw, cut it into small, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking. Cooked pumpkin can also be mixed into their meals or used in homemade treats for an extra health boost. Just remember to avoid adding any seasoning or spices.

Can dogs eat pumpkin pie?

Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving treat in the USA, and although it's available in the UK, it isn't as popular. Regardless, if you plan on getting your hands on some pumpkin pie, this dessert shouldn't be shared with your four-legged friend. Dogs can not eat pumpkin pie as it usually contains ingredients like nutmeg, sugar, salt and, in some recipes, xylitol. Whilst these ingredients are unhealthy, xylitol is toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much pumpkin can I give my dog?

Small amounts of plain, cooked pumpkin are safe for most dogs. This is a few teaspoons for small dogs and up to a few tablespoons for larger dog breeds. However, make sure to get specific dietary advice from your vet beforehand.

Can dogs eat pumpkin soup?

It's best to refrain from giving your dog pumpkin soup, especially if you don't know what ingredients are in the recipe. Pumpkin soup often contains salt, onions, garlic and cream, which are all harmful to your dog.