Can dogs eat pumpkin ?
Good news! The answer is yes, dogs can eat pumpkin. It’s a great addition to a homemade dog diet and also has plenty of health benefits.
Read on to find out how pumpkin can nourish your dog, why it's so good for them and how to prepare pumpkin for optimal taste and absorption of nutrients.
Is pumpkin good for dogs?
Most dog owners will first stumble upon the benefits of pumpkin when their canine companion is struggling with digestive issues. In fact, it’s often recommended by vets as a simple and effective home remedy.
Pumpkin is full of fibre - both soluble and insoluble - which can assist dogs who are suffering from either mild constipation or mild diarrhoea. It does this by softening the stool or creating bulk, as well as working as a powerful gut-healing prebiotic.
Additional benefits of fibre include helping your dog express their anal glands naturally, which protects against anal disease or long term issues.
It also helps your dog feel fuller for longer. This is especially useful if they are overweight and you are trying to reduce their food intake.
Perhaps most interestingly, pumpkin is great for the bladder. Its vast combination of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants support urinary health and help to prevent urinary tract infections, as well as painful kidney and bladder stones.
And it’s not just the vibrant orange flesh of the pumpkin that is packed with nutrients.
Pepitas, which are found in shell-less or hulless pumpkin varieties, are also a powerful superfood for dogs.
What are pepitas?
Pepitas are a natural source of omega fatty acids, which are essential for:
- Healthy skin and joints
- Brain function
- Heart health
Not only that, pepitas are also anti-inflammatory, meaning they are great for dogs with:
- Arthritis
- Intestinal issues
- Anal gland disease
When it comes to nourishing the body, that also extends to nourishing the mind. Pepitas really excel in this area due to their tryptophan content, which converts into GABA in the brain.
Tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin and melatonin, thus reducing the symptoms of anxiety and helping to induce sleep. This can be especially helpful for dogs with separation anxiety.
Pepitas are also believed to be a holistic treatment for intestinal parasites, according to scientific studies.
Pumpkin (including pepitas) is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for optimal dog health.
From soothing digestive discomfort and dog symptoms to maintaining healthy skin, coat, muscles and nerves, this vibrant orange vegetable is an exceptional all-rounder. It can even keep their bladder and urinary tract healthy, as well as boosting mental health.
Pumpkin is a tasty addition to your dog’s natural real food meals and can be offered in a variety of ways, including as a healthy homemade dog treat.
Information from : wellbeingfordogs.com.au