With Fall upon us, it is natural for pet parents to wonder if pumpkin for dogs is just as beneficial as it is for humans. Because of the popularity of pumpkin spiced lattes and the anticipation of pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving, pumpkin is an important staple this time of year. However, what most pet owners don’t seem to realize is that pumpkin can be more than just a treat for their best friend. In fact, pumpkin can be highly beneficial to a dog’s overall health.
How beneficial is it?
Well, in this article I will show you the true wonder of pumpkin for dogs and explain why you should offer your dog pumpkin year-round.
Pumpkin Nutritional Benefits
Pumpkin has a ton of nutritional benefits most pet owners aren’t aware of. Not only is pumpkin full of essential vitamins such as Vitamin C, beta carotene and Vitamin A, but it is also loaded with essential antioxidants which can help protect dogs as they age. These vitamins are important to support a healthy immune system, support healthy vision, protect their joints and promote overall well-being.
Pumpkin for Diarrhea
One of the most common uses for pumpkin, which most pet owners are familiar with, is using it to help treat dogs suffering from diarrhea. The reason it is used so frequently for this reason is because pumpkin is a source of soluble fiber. This source of natural fiber can help slow down digestion and add needed bulk to a dog’s stool to keep them firm.
A simple tablespoon of canned pumpkin is a perfect way to firm up loose stools quickly.
Pumpkin for Constipation
Interestingly enough, while pumpkin can help treat diarrhea naturally, it can also be used to help treat constipation. The soluble fiber found in pumpkin can help keep your dog regular, while helping them to pass stools comfortably. Adding just 1 to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin to your dog’s food is a great way to give your dog the needed hydration they need to pass firmer than normal stools in as gentle a way as possible.
Pumpkin for an Upset Stomach
There are numerous reasons why dogs suffer from an upset stomach. However, one of the most common reasons is due to changing their food. While it is important to change a dog’s food gradually, adding some canned pumpkin while introducing a new food is a great way to prevent an upset stomach before it can even start.
Keep in mind, there are a variety of causes for an upset stomach such as a stomach ulcer, allergies and gastrointestinal diseases. It is always important to find the root cause of the upset stomach to know how to treat it properly.
Pumpkin for Weight Loss
Dogs that have a history of struggling from excessive weight gain can benefit from canned or pureed pumpkin. Pumpkin is a low-calorie food source that is rich in nutrition. By adding pumpkin into your dog’s regular diet by replacing a portion of their meal with it, can be a great way to help keep excessive weight off while feeding them less in the process.
Pumpkin for Dogs: The Bottomline
We all want the best for our dogs. Try switching up your dog’s dinner time routine by giving them pumpkin. There are so many uses for pumpkin for dogs, all of which can help keep your dog happy and healthy.