Is pumpkin safe for dogs? What pet owners should know this autumn

Is this classic autumnal vegetable healthy or harmful for your pooch?

Autumn is officially here, and along with it comes the biggest trend of the season- pumpkin. But many dog owners argue over whether or not it is safe to get your pooch into the autumn spirit by feeding them the big orange vegetable as a treat.

Luckily, one vet has busted myths about pumpkin for dogs and issued some advice for how to keep your pooch healthy should you choose to let them eat pumpkin this season. Anna Robertson, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box has examined the nutritional reality of the vegetable, and how to safely incorporate it into your pooch’s diet.

The expert says: “Pumpkin has gained significant popularity as a dog food ingredient, particularly during autumn months, but it’s important to understand what it can and cannot do nutritionally.”

So, is pumpkin healthy for dogs, and what form of it is safest for them to eat? Here’s everything you need to know.

Is pumpkin safe and healthy for dogs?

While many believe in the digestive benefits of feeding your puppy pumpkin, you should always be careful when adding new things into their diet.

Anna says: “One of the biggest misconceptions is that pumpkin is a digestive cure-all.

“While the fibre content can support mild digestive upsets, pumpkin should be a supplementary aid and won’t address underlying digestive issues, food sensitivities, or serious gastrointestinal problems. Dogs with persistent digestive concerns should always be evaluated by a veterinarian rather than relying on home remedies alone.

“Seasonal ingredients like pumpkin can be part of keeping mealtimes interesting for dogs, but they work best when incorporated thoughtfully into an already solid nutritional foundation rather than being viewed as essential supplements.”

There are some ways that pumpkin can benefit dogs, including:

Mild, temporary digestive irregularities (with veterinary guidance)As an occasional low-calorie treat for weight managementAdding variety to meals for dogs with good digestive toleranceSupporting appetite during recovery (when recommended by a vet)Adds fibre and moisture to your dog’s digestive system

But if you are going to feed the seasonal vegetable to your pet, you need to be careful.

How to safely feed pumpkin to your dog

The animal expert adds: “If owners want to include pumpkin in their dog’s diet, preparation and portion control are crucial.

“Plain, cooked pumpkin is the only safe option – this means avoiding canned pumpkin pie filling, pumpkin spice products, or raw pumpkin, which can be difficult for dogs to digest.”

Here is her expert advice for safely feeding your dog pumpkin.

Choose plain pumpkin only

She says: “Use fresh pumpkin that you cook and puree yourself, or plain canned pumpkin with no added ingredients. Always check labels carefully – even products labelled ‘pumpkin’ sometimes contain spices or sweeteners.”

Appropriate portions

The expert adds: “For most dogs, one tablespoon mixed into their regular food is sufficient. Large dogs might handle slightly more, but pumpkin should never comprise more than 10 per cent of a dog’s daily food intake.”

Gradual introduction

“Start with tiny amounts to see how your individual dog tolerates pumpkin. Some dogs may experience digestive upset even from a plain pumpkin”, says Anna.

Maintain balanced nutrition

She concluded: “Pumpkin should supplement, not replace, a complete and balanced diet. Dogs getting significant portions of pumpkin may need their regular food portions adjusted to maintain proper nutrition.”

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