What Does Pumpkin Do for Dogs?
Packed with health benefits and delicious taste, pumpkin can be served as a healthy addition to dog food. Pumpkin is an excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Learn more about nutritional benefits and precautions below.
Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Pumpkin offers many nutritional benefits for dogs and can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Speak with your veterinarian to decide if pumpkin is the right choice for your canine and stick to your vet’s recommended serving sizes—it’s still possible to overdo it, even on fruits and veggies!
- Rich in fiber: Pumpkin can aid digestion and help alleviate common digestive issues such as upset stomach and constipation.
- Supports weight management: Pumpkin is low-calorie and can be part of weight management diets.
- Promotes urinary health: Pumpkin contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support urinary health.
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients: Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and beta carotene, which help support eye, skin, and muscle health.
Is Pumpkin Safe for Dogs?
Cooked pumpkin, plain canned pumpkin, and pureed pumpkin are safe for dogs. Avoid giving your dog shelled pumpkin seeds, pumpkin skins or stems, spiced pumpkin products, and pumpkin pie filling which can be harmful to dogs. Pumpkin should be given in moderation.
Types of Pumpkin that is Good for Dogs
- Dry dog food with added pumpkin: When selecting dry dog food with added pumpkin look for high-quality ingredients and real pumpkin such as Nature’s Recipes® Salmon and Pumpkin recipe. By choosing this type of food you can ensure your dog receives essential nutrients to support their health and well-being.
- Cooked pumpkin: Make sure to remove and avoid using the skin, seeds, pulp, and stem. When cooking pumpkin, consider roasting, boiling, or steaming to preserve nutrients.
- Pureed pumpkin: Pureed pumpkin can be made by blending fully-cooked pumpkin and then blending in a food processor.
- Canned pumpkin: Make sure to look for plain canned pumpkin without added spices, sweeteners, salt, preservatives, and thickening agents. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog's diet. With their guidance, you can provide your furry friend with the health benefits of pumpkins while ensuring a balanced and nutritious daily diet.
How to Choose Dog Food with Pumpkin
When choosing dog food with pumpkin here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Check for real pumpkin. Look for real pumpkin rather than artificial flavors.
- Consider different forms of pumpkin. Dog food may include pumpkin in various forms such as pumpkin kibble or pureed pumpkin.
- Consult your veterinarian. Ask your vet what food diet they recommend for your pet.
Dry dog food with pumpkin is a convenient and simple way to incorporate pumpkin into your dog’s diet. Nature’s Recipes® grain-free Chicken and Pumpkin, Lamb and Pumpkin, and Salmon and Pumpkin natural dog food is made with real ingredients, no artificial flavors, no fillers, no added corn, wheat, or soy. These recipes are carefully crafted with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources, such as pumpkin, to create flavorful dry food designed to be gentle on your dog's stomach.
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