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You may have heard or read that pumpkin makes dogs poop. However, is that really true, or is it only a myth?
It can be confusing when you read and hear about OTC remedies you can try with your dog when he’s having poop trouble. But you want to help him, so you turn to a remedy that everyone else is using. But is it really good for your dog?
In this article, we’ll take a look at pumpkin and whether or not it can really help if your dog is having poop problems! Let’s get started!
Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Pumpkin is a nutritious, great-tasting remedy that most dogs love. Many pet parents use pumpkin to make homemade dog treats, and you can even find packaged dog treats for sale online! So, does pumpkin really have any health benefits for dogs? The answer is yes! There are many health benefits for dogs who eat pumpkins!
Pumpkin is filled to overflowing with healthy nutrients that dogs need. It’s low in calories, fat, and sugar but still has a great taste that dogs love. Here are the nutrients in pumpkin:
- 7 g of fiber
- 17 g fat
- Vitamin A (beta-carotene)
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Riboflavin
- Potassium
- Copper
- Manganese
- Thiamin
- Vitamin B-6
- Folate
- Pantothenic acid
- Niacin
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
All of these nutrients are extremely beneficial for dogs! What’s more, Vitamin A is great for your dog’s eye health. Vitamin A keeps the eyes healthy and improves night vision. Pumpkins also help boost a dog’s immune system with their high levels of Vitamin C. Vitamins A & E are also powerful antioxidants, which may protect your fur baby against certain types of cancer.
What’s more, pumpkin can also help moisturize a dog’s skin and keep his coat shiny and healthy. It works to keep your dog hydrated, even if your dog doesn’t like to drink water. And pumpkin is also great at keeping a dog’s digestive tract regular.
What’s more, pumpkin can be a great way to help a dog lose weight. It’s difficult for a dog when his food is cut down. He may feel hungry in between meals and start eating things he shouldn’t.
To avoid this problem, pumpkin is sometimes added to a dog’s normal meals. The fiber and the water in the pumpkin help the dog to feel more satisfied and fuller, even though he’s not eating as much dog food.
The best part is the most dogs love the flavor of pumpkin! And it’s a healthy snack for a dog, even if the pumpkin is served pureed and plain (no sugar, spices, etc.). However, it is OK to add a little honey or cinnamon to the pumpkin if your dog prefers more flavor. These are safe ingredients, and you don’t need to add much to make the pumpkin more flavorful.
Pumpkin is a Great Source of Fiber
Pumpkin can help ensure your dog poops on a regular basis because it’s a rich source of dietary fiber. What’s more, if a dog has diarrhea, the fiber in the pumpkin can absorb excess water, which creates a firmer stool.
And if a dog is constipated, the high water and fiber content of the pumpkin help to bulk and soften the stool. This means pumpkin can also act as a natural laxative, making it easier for a dog to poop.
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Ask a Vet Live NowHow Much Pumpkin Should I Give My Dog?
If you’d like to try pumpkin when your dog has diarrhea, then you can give him about ½ teaspoon to 4 tablespoons of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). The pumpkin can be added to your dog’s food or given to him alone if he will eat it that way.
For constipation, you can try to give your dog ½ teaspoon to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin in his dog food. Also, make sure your fur baby is getting plenty of water so that he’s staying hydrated. Dogs that are dehydrated can have harder stools.
When using pumpkin for the first time, it’s best to start with a lower amount. And use a smaller amount for smaller dogs and a larger amount (not more than four tablespoons) for a larger dog. Too much pumpkin could make diarrhea or constipation worse.
If you don’t see improvement in your dog in a few hours, then it’s time to call the vet. It’s imperative to find out what’s causing your dog’s diarrhea or constipation.
What Type of Pumpkin Should I Give my Dog?
It’s important to make sure you give your dog the right type of pumpkin. Never give your dog canned pumpkin pie filling. This is because the filling contains high amounts of sugar that can make your dog very sick. It could worsen the digestive problem he’s already having.
So, be sure to only give your dog either fresh, cooked pumpkin from home or canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling).
Keep in mind that pumpkin is usually given to dogs who have mild diarrhea or constipation. If your dog is having serious digestive issues, then definitely call the vet. Don’t try to treat your dog at home.
Making Pumpkin Puree at Home for Your Dog
If you prefer using homemade, fresh ingredients for your dog’s food and treats, then it’s possible to make pumpkin puree at home for your fur baby. Here’s an easy recipe!
Ingredients / Items You’ll Need
- 1 large, ripe pumpkin
- 1 baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Large knife
- Large spoon (for scooping out seeds)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350˚F
1). Cut the top off the pumpkin.
2). Scoop out the pumpkin seeds. You can save the seeds to roast later.
3). Wash the pumpkin, and then cut into quarters. This recipe only uses ¼ of the pumpkin. You can freeze the remainder for puree later or for other recipes.
3). Cut the pumpkin quarter into smaller pieces, then place the pumpkin pieces on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
4). Bake the pumpkin pieces for about 45 minutes. The pumpkin is done when the flesh is fork-tender.
8). Remove the pumpkin pieces from the oven and allow them to cool.
9). When cool, remove the outer skin of the pumpkin pieces, then cut the baked pumpkin into small chunks and put it in the blender or food processor. Gradually add water as the pumpkin is pureed. You want the pumpkin to be similar in consistency to baby food.
10). Freeze the puree into one-cup containers or in ice cube trays.
Note: You can use the pumpkin puree as-is and add it to your dog’s food. The puree can also be used to make some yummy dog treats!
So, there you have it! Pumpkin can be a great benefit for your dog in many ways. It can help keep your dog regular or even help stop mild diarrhea.
However, always remember that if your dog doesn’t have relief within a few hours of eating pumpkin, then it’s time to call the vet. Your dog may have a condition that requires medication and more.
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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