Pumpkin isn’t just a classic seasonal favorite for us humans—it’s a fun and nutritious treat for our dogs too. While it isn’t recommended to share your pumpkin spice latte with your dog, they can benefit from the nutritional benefits of pumpkin in other ways. In fact, pumpkin can improve digestion, soothe upset stomachs, improve skin & coat health, and more when given to your dog!
Health Benefits of Pumpkin
Pumpkin for Gut Health
Did you know that a dog’s gut health plays an important role in their overall immune health? In fact, it’s believed that anywhere between 70% to a whopping 90% of your dog’s immune system can be found within their gut. Pumpkins are rich in dietary fiber—an essential part of a dog’s diet—and can help soothe upset stomachs, firm up runny stool, and even help to lower the acidity of the large intestine.
Pumpkin also contains high levels of prebiotics, which feed the probiotics—otherwise known as “good” bacteria—in your dog’s gut. Not only do these helpful bacteria help with digestion and other gastrointestinal upset, but they also support your dog’s immune system and help them to maintain a healthy weight.
Pumpkin for Skin & Coat Health
Pumpkin isn’t just rich in fiber, but several other vitamins and nutrients that support your dog’s skin and coat health. In fact, the combination of Omega-3s, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, and zinc can help moisturize your dog's coat while also reducing itchiness so that they can look and feel their best.
Pumpkin for Nose to Tail Wellness
Pumpkin is considered a superfood thanks to all of the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it contains. Because of that, it has a vast range of benefits for your pet outside of supporting their digestive system or their skin and coat.
Most notably, pumpkin’s high levels of beta-carotene can be good for your dog’s eye health, while its Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E work together to support their immune system. Pumpkins are also surprisingly hydrating, especially when offered in canned form.
How to Serve Your Dog Pumpkin
While you might be tempted to let your dog have a bite of pumpkin pie or a little sip of your pumpkin spice latte, the added sugars and spice can make them sick. Instead, we recommend feeding your dog unsweetened, canned pumpkin. Not only does the high moisture content provide your pet with a boost of hydration, but it’s also easily digestible and, most importantly, tasty.
That doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with how you introduce pumpkin into your pet’s diet, though. Super Snouts Firm Up! is specifically formulated with USA-grown pumpkins to help with runny, inconsistent stools and upset stomachs. Or, for something a bit more indulgent, there’s Bocce’s Pumpk’n Spice Soft & Chewy treats, which are made with limited ingredients and baked right here in the USA!