Here at Jinx, we love pumpkin for dogs. In fact, we include it in many of our recipes, including our Salmon & Pumpkin Jerky Tenders, as well as our tasty Chicken & Pumpkin Meal Topper and Salmon & Pumpkin Meal Topper. We incorporate pumpkin into our blend of superfoods in all of our kibble recipes as well. But what makes pumpkin so gourd (ha) for dogs? Turns out it’s a nutrient-rich superfood that’s packed with health benefits for your pup. Read on to learn about the many benefits of pumpkin for dogs.
Why Is Pumpkin Good For Dogs?
Without a complete and balanced diet, dogs are subject to several dietary deficiencies. Some of the most common include: protein, iron, copper, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E. When pups don’t get enough of these vitamins and nutrients, over time they can develop weakened immune systems, and become more susceptible to a variety of health issues.
It’s important to make sure that your pup gets all of the nutrients they need to thrive. Feeding them foods high in vitamins A, C, and E (like pumpkin!) can help set up your pup for success, supporting their overall health and helping to prevent serious issues like heart disease and cancer down the line.
To help your pup get enough of these essential nutrients, you can feed them vitamin-rich, dog-friendly fruits and vegetables like pumpkin — either as a treat, or mixed in with their regular food. You can also feed your dog packaged food that contains pumpkin as an ingredient, like our Grain-Free Chicken & Salmon Homemades wet food.
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, there are many ways that pumpkin can help support your pup’s health. Here are just a few reasons why we love pumpkin for dogs:
- Mineral and vitamin-packed - Pumpkin contains vitamins A (beta carotene), C, and E, as well as minerals like iron and potassium to support your pup’s overall health.
- Rich in fiber - Pumpkin can help with constipation and diarrhea. Its high fiber content helps food move through your dog’s digestive tract. It also absorbs water, which can help make your dog's stool firmer in the case of diarrhea.
- Prebiotic powerhouse - Fiber is also a prebiotic, which helps feed the good bacteria in your dog's digestive tract and prevent bad bacteria from growing.
- Pup-approved taste - Many dogs love the flavor of pumpkin — it’s as tasty as it is healthy!
Health Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
When it comes to the health benefits of pumpkin for dogs, this gourd really puts the “super” in superfood. Here’s why:
Supports Eye Health
Pumpkin is rich in beta carotene, which is essential for eye health. For a healthy, eye-supporting treat, try pureeing pumpkin with a little flax oil, then pouring it on top of your pup’s food. Pumpkin is fat soluble, so the addition of the oil will help pumpkin’s nutrients pack more punch.
Boosts Immune Health
Another benefit of pumpkin for dogs is that it’s high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that’s integral for your pup’s immune health. Antioxidants help protect the body from cell damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to serious health issues like cancer.
Aids Digestion
Pumpkin is low in calories and packed with soluble fiber, which can help your dog feel full for longer. This makes it an excellent, tasty treat for pups who may need to lose a few pounds.
Plus, pumpkin is full of digestive benefits. It’s high in fiber, which helps prevent constipation and diarrhea, and is a prebiotic that helps support the “good bacteria” in your pup’s gut. Just one tablespoon of pumpkin mixed in with your dog’s food can help keep them regular.
Promotes Skin and Coat Health
Pumpkin is rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids to support your pup’s skin and coat. These moisturizing nutrients help promote a strong skin barrier, and prevent dandruff and flaky skin. If your pup has sensitive skin, try adding a bit of pumpkin to their diet.
Hydrates
Pumpkin is 94% water, which makes it a refreshing, hydrating treat. It’s a great snack to help keep your dog cool on hot days — and all year round. After all, proper hydration plays a very important role in supporting your pup’s mood, sleep, skin, and cognitive function.
Helps with Urinary Incontinence
Another thing that makes pumpkin good for dogs is its urinary health benefits. As mentioned in a previous section, pumpkin flesh and pumpkin seeds are high omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may even help dislodge kidney stones. Pumpkin seeds have also been known to help with incontinence, which can be especially helpful for senior dogs.
It’s important to note that whole pumpkin seeds can be a choking hazard for pups. To play it safe, blend the seeds into a powder first, then sprinkle it on top of your dog’s food.
Great-Tasting, Healthy Treat
Many dogs go wild for the rich, creamy flavor and texture of pumpkin. Try serving your pup plain, cooked pumpkin that has been cut into bite-sized pieces, mashed, or pureed for a healthy, low-calorie treat. Learn more ways to safely add pumpkin to your dog’s diet in the following section.
Serving Suggestions: Pumpkin For Dogs
Yes, pumpkin is healthy for dogs — but there are still a few things you should keep in mind when feeding your pup this delicious treat. Here’s how to safely feed your dog pumpkin seeds and pumpkin flesh.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are low in fat, rich in protein, and packed with vitamins and nutrients for your pup. However, whole pumpkin seeds may present a choking hazard for your dog. The best way to give your canine companion the benefits of pumpkin seeds is to grind them into a powder, and then mix the powder in with your dog’s food.
If you buy store-bought pumpkin seeds, be sure to buy plain seeds with no added sodium or other ingredients that could be harmful to your pup.
Pumpkin Flesh
Pumpkin flesh is rich in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which help but boost eye health, enhance immune health, and support your dog's skin and coat.
To help your pup reap the many health benefits of this superfood, simply mix one or two tablespoons of plain, cooked pumpkin into your dog's food. You can buy and cook a pumpkin yourself, or purchase canned pumpkin (just be sure to buy plain, canned pumpkin — not pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar, spices, and other ingredients that can be harmful to your dog).
Unsure whether fresh pumpkin or canned pumpkin is better? Well, here’s some possibly-surprising news: canned pumpkin is actually more concentrated with fiber and nutrients than fresh pumpkin, as it contains less water. Convenience for the win!
Treat Your Dog to the Benefits of Pumpkin with Jinx
Even more convenient than canned pumpkin for dogs? Feeding your pup a dog food that contains pumpkin as an ingredient, like our irresistible Grain-Free Chicken & Salmon Homemades. Actually, pumpkin can be found in many of our Jinx recipes, including our tasty Salmon & Pumpkin Meal Topper and Chicken & Pumpkin Meal Topper. Just sprinkle a bit over your dog’s regular food for extra vitamins and nutrients, and a burst of flavor they’ll love.
If you’re looking for a healthy, delectable treat for your pup, our Salmon Jerky Tenders are perfect (and they contain pumpkin for added antioxidants and digestive support!).
At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love. Put the “super” back into your dog’s meals with our superfood-packed kibble and wet food.