Dogs can safely eat pumpkin, but the form and amount matter. Key takeaways:
- Safe forms: plain cooked pumpkin or plain raw pumpkin flesh in small amounts. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, sweetened or spiced preparations, and pumpkin with added sugars or flavorings. Raw pumpkin is generally considered safe in moderation, but it is harder to digest and can be tough to chew, so many owners prefer cooked pumpkin for easier digestion.
- Seeds: pumpkin seeds are fine when unsalted and offered in moderation. Raw seeds are generally safe in small quantities, but avoid heavily salted varieties.
- Risks: never give dogs the rind, skin, stem, or leaves in large amounts, as these parts can be hard to digest or cause irritation. Raw pumpkin skin and rind may be more likely to cause stomach upset or choking in some dogs.
- Portions: start with a very small amount (a teaspoon for small dogs, a tablespoon for medium dogs) and monitor for any digestive changes. If the dog tolerates it, you can gradually increase, but typically pumpkin should be used as a supplement to a balanced diet, not a replacement for regular meals. Consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance based on your dog’s weight and health.
- Veterinary advice: if the dog has a sensitive stomach, inflammatory bowel disease, or other digestive concerns, check with a vet before introducing pumpkin, and stop if any adverse signs appear.
Practical tips:
- How to serve: plain, cooked pumpkin mixed into meals or a small amount offered as a treat. If using canned pumpkin, choose 100% pumpkin puree with no added sugar, spices, or fillers.
- Pumpkin seeds: offer unsalted, plain seeds as an occasional snack or mix into meals in small amounts.
If you’d like, share your dog’s size, age, and any digestive issues, and a tailored, portion-friendly plan can be outlined.
