With Halloween approaching and pumpkins in every window, it’s estimated that 15.8 million pumpkins will go to waste this year.
For those looking for alternative ways to use up our favourite autumnal vegetable, did you know that pumpkin is actually a doggy ‘superfood’?
Dog-friendly letting specialists, Canine Cottages has collaborated with Peter Wright, Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet and veterinarian for natural dog food brand Harringtons. Together, they’ve delved into the myriad of ways pumpkins can positively impact your dog’s diet.
Superfoods for dogs are a category of highly nutritious foods that provide a wealth of health advantages when integrated into their diets. These remarkable foods are typically abundant in essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and a range of vital nutrients, all of which work in tandem to enhance and support your dog’s overall health and vitality.
From supporting the immune system, enriching the digestive system and supporting with weight management, pumpkins can be an amazing addition to a dogs’ diet, but as Wright says, it should be in “moderate doses.”
Below, Wright explains the benefits that pumpkin can have for your dog.
Improves overall digestion
Pumpkins, particularly the seeds, offer exceptional benefits to dogs and can promote healthy digestion. According to Wright, “Pumpkins are rich in vitamins A, C and E, this dog superfood also contains potassium and iron. It is also high in fibre and can boost gut efficiency and bulk out a dog’s stool, which can help reduce diarrhoea.” Additionally, pumpkin is known for its soluble fibre, which slows down the digestive process and aids in water absorption—a valuable remedy for mild cases of diarrhoea. Pumpkins can also be beneficial in addressing mild constipation by helping regulate bowel movements.”
Great for the tummy and gut
Some dogs have exceptionally sensitive stomachs and feeding them pumpkin can be a gentle and effective way of providing relief for their digestive woes. The fibre found in pumpkins facilitates easier waste elimination, all the while alleviating undue strain on their intestinal system. Pumpkin stands as a valuable at-home remedy for addressing both constipation and loose stools in your furry friend.
Wright advises: “Pumpkin should be seen as a dietary supplement fed in very small doses, rather than as a treat. As a stodgy vegetable, it is also high in calories. You can feed it from a ready-to-eat can or use a fresh pumpkin. Remove the seeds and bake it in the oven until soft.”
When it comes to incorporating pumpkin into your dog’s diet, here are three easy options to use up your Halloween pumpkins:
1. Freshly Baked Pumpkin: To prepare this, remove the seeds and bake the pumpkin in your oven at 180 degrees until it becomes soft and palatable. You can then add a small amount to your pup’s meals.
2. Crunchy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: A crunchy treat can be added to your dog’s diet with roasted pumpkin seeds. Clean and roast the fresh seeds at 180 degrees for about an hour. After cooling, grind them and mix them into your dog’s food.
3. Pumpkin Puree: For a homemade pumpkin puree, peel a whole pumpkin, remove the seeds, and slice it into chunks. Simmer the pumpkin in boiling water for 20 to 30 minutes until it’s soft and tender. Drain and mash it into a smooth paste. You can store it in the fridge for three to four days or freeze it for up to six months.
