By: Dr. Juli, DVM @itsDrJuli
Many pet parents know that some dogs can’t stay away from human food. Resisting your pup’s longing eyes and drooling lips can be challenging as you enjoy your favorite treat. Fortunately, some human foods can be a great addition to your dog’s daily diet. We’re all familiar with peanut butter as a go-to human food snack for dogs. But did you know pureed pumpkin can be good for dogs and even alleviate minor digestive system problems? But, before serving up a pumpkin feast to your pup, always check with your veterinarian before adding any new foods or treats to your dog’s diet. Additionally, before feeding your pet human treats, check the ASPCA list of pet-toxic foods to avoid an unexpected emergency veterinary visit.
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Puree for Your Pooch
Although all things pumpkin fill the grocery stores during the holiday season, canned pumpkin is available year-round. This powerful superfood can support your dog’s overall health and wellness while providing a delicious treat that’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin A. Pumpkin is rich in beta carotene, which gets converted to Vitamin A in your dog’s body. This essential vitamin is critical for proper muscle and nerve function and supports healthy skin, coat, and eye health.
- Vitamin C. Antioxidants, like vitamin C, help support your dog’s immune system health and combat harmful free radicals.
- Vitamin E. This fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin promotes healthy liver, skin, heart, and immune system health.
- Potassium. This mineral is essential for proper heart, nerve, and muscle homeostasis. Potassium also works with sodium to maintain the body’s hydration and blood pH.
Despite these health benefits, too much of a good thing can affect your dog’s waistline. It’s crucial to make sure that dog treats, including pumpkin, do not comprise more than 10% of your pup’s daily caloric intake, or else they may become one of the 50% of dogs in the US that are overweight or obese. Pumpkin is fiber-rich, and feeding your pup this tasty treat in moderation can help them feel fuller faster and maintain a healthy weight. The extra fiber pumpkin provides may also aid weight loss in overweight pups.
