Why
Pumpkin is rich in fiber and beta-carotene and low in calories. Its soluble fiber can help firm up stools, and some veterinarians suggest a spoonful for dogs with mild digestive upset.
Only use plain pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and spices, and some products may contain xylitol. Raw pumpkin is hard to digest, and the stem and skin can cause blockages.
What to watch out for
- Pumpkin pie filling or spiced products
- Too much fiber, which can cause loose stools
- Diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two, which needs a vet, not pumpkin
How to serve it
- Use 100% plain canned pumpkin or steamed, mashed pumpkin flesh.
- Mix a small spoonful into your dog's regular food.
- Freeze leftover canned pumpkin in small portions.
How much?
Small dogs can have about 1 teaspoon of pumpkin and large dogs 1 to 2 tablespoons per day.
Is canned pumpkin the same as pumpkin pie filling?
No, and the cans often sit side by side on the shelf. Plain canned pumpkin lists one ingredient: pumpkin. It may be labeled "100% pure pumpkin" or "pumpkin puree."
Pumpkin pie filling, sometimes called pie mix, is already sweetened and spiced. It usually contains sugar or syrup and spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon. Read the ingredient list, not just the front label.
Once opened, canned pumpkin keeps only a few days in the fridge. Spoon the rest into an ice cube tray and freeze it in single portions.
Pumpkin for a mild tummy upset, and when to skip it and call the vet
Some vets suggest a spoonful of plain pumpkin for a dog with slightly soft stool who is otherwise acting normal. It is a food, not a treatment, and it does not fix the cause.
Do not rely on pumpkin, and contact your vet, if any of these apply:
- Vomiting, especially more than once
- Blood in the stool, or black, tarry stool
- Lethargy, weakness or refusing food
- A puppy, a senior dog, or a dog with an existing health condition
- Diarrhea or straining that lasts more than a day or so
Pumpkin seeds, jack-o'-lanterns and pumpkin spice
Pumpkin seeds are not toxic. Plain seeds that have been roasted with no salt or oil can be shared in small amounts. The shells are tough, so grinding the seeds or giving only a few is safer. Skip store-bought seeds, which are usually salted or seasoned.
Carved jack-o'-lanterns start to rot within days. Moldy food can contain mycotoxins that cause tremors and seizures in dogs, so throw out old pumpkins before your dog can chew on them. Candles inside them are a burn risk too.
Pumpkin spice lattes and baked goods contain sugar, dairy and spice blends and offer no benefit. Plain pumpkin is the only version worth sharing.
Common questions
Is pumpkin good for dogs?
Yes, as an occasional treat. Pumpkin is rich in fiber and beta-carotene and low in calories. Its soluble fiber can help firm up stools, and some veterinarians suggest a spoonful for dogs with mild digestive upset.
Is pumpkin bad for dogs?
Not in sensible amounts. The main thing to watch: pumpkin pie filling or spiced products.
Are dogs allowed to have pumpkin?
Yes. Use 100% plain canned pumpkin or steamed, mashed pumpkin flesh.
Sources
Topic references
General care and safety
If your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Do not wait for symptoms. In the US you can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply).