How often can dogs have pumpkin?

The frequency of serving the fruit depends on the reason for giving it to your dog. If you use it for general health benefits, you can opt for several times per week or once daily. For treating digestive tract issues, your vet may recommend more frequent servings

Can dogs eat pumpkin every day?

Yes, dogs can consume canned pumpkin daily, as long as you consider their size and serve an appropriate amount.

Are pumpkin stems poisonous to dogs?

No, they’re not poisonous, but they are inedible and provide no nutritional value for a dog. Additionally, they can pose a choking hazard, so it’s best to remove them.

Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?

Dogs can have plain roasted pumpkin seeds, ground into powder, and added to the dog’s food. However, you should avoid serving them too often and monitor a pup’s reaction to pumpkin seeds.

Is pumpkin pie safe for dogs?

No, pumpkin pie is not safe for dogs due to the excessive amounts of sugar and other ingredients (such as the pumpkin pie filling) that can be toxic to them.

Can I give my dog raw pumpkin?

Although raw pumpkin served in small amounts is safe for dogs, it is generally recommended to opt for canned pumpkin or cooked pumpkin variations. This way, you can avoid adding too much water to your dog’s diet but serve them extra fiber to help digestion.

What does pumpkin puree do for dogs?

Pumpkin puree offers numerous health benefits for dogs. Give a dog pumpkin to prevent digestive issues, enrich their diet, and support weight management.

Feeding Dogs Pumpkin: Is Pumpkin Safe for Dogs? All Questions Answered

Woofz Team

Updated on September 15, 2025

Key Takeaways

Pumpkin is an excellent addition to your dog’s diet, as it’s rich in nutrients and can help dogs with digestive issues, such as diarrhea and constipation
When serving this fruit to your dog, stick to specific requirements; offer your pet cooked pumpkin without additives
Avoid overfeeding the fruit to your dog as it can cause digestive problems; use it as a treat, not the core of a dog’s diet
Consult a vet before offering it to your pet.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

The good news is that caniness can benefit from eating this orange fruit, but it should be served in moderation. Another critical aspect to consider is how it was cooked. It’s best to opt for plain cooked or canned pumpkin without any extra additives.

When it comes to fresh pumpkin, it’s better to avoid serving it as it can be difficult for your furry friend to digest, and it can cause a range of digestive tract issues. Treating your pet with a pumpkin pie should also be off limits, as it can contain ingredients that are toxic to canines, including sugar, nutmeg, and cloves.

It’s important to consult a vet before offering pumpkin (or any “people food”) because every dog is different. Dogs with certain health conditions (like diabetes, kidney issues, or allergies) may react differently.
Shannon Kenny

Is Pumpkin Good for Dogs?

Now, let’s explore the benefits of pumpkin for dogs. When cooked properly, this fruit can be a source of essential vitamins and microelements, which are vital for your dog’s health.

Digestive Health

This fruit is extremely rich in fiber, which is why it’s often used to help treat digestive problems. You can use it for either constipation or diarrhea. On one hand, extra fiber can help with bowel movements and facilitate the passage of stool through the digestive tract more easily. On the other hand, it can absorb water effectively and help cure diarrhea.

Weight Management

Low in calories, this fruit helps canines feel fuller due to its rich fiber and water content. It helps suppress hunger cues and reduce the dog’s weight by decreasing daily calorie intake. It can also serve as a healthier alternative to traditional treats.

Nutrient-Rich

This fruit is an absolute powerhouse of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins.

It offers a cocktail of vitamins (A, C, E), potassium, and iron. When dogs eat pumpkin seeds, they benefit from nutrients even more, as they can get zinc, copper, and magnesium. These elements help boost your dog’s immune system.

Antioxidants

Another way this magical plant can help keep your dog’s health in optimal condition is the antioxidants it contains. The antioxidants help keep your pet’s skin and coat in top condition, as well as contribute to good vision and a strong immune system.

How Much Pumpkin to Give a Dog?

Ensure you consult a veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog. Make sure to introduce any new ingredient slowly, and if your furry friend tolerates the fruit well, you can gradually increase the portion size.

Dog Type	Dog’s Weight	How Much Pumpkin	How Often
Extra small	2–10 lbs (1–5 kg)	2 teaspoons	1 serving a day
Small	11–20 lbs (5–9 kg)	3 teaspoons	1 serving a day
Medium	21–50 lbs (9–22 kg)	2 tablespoons	1 serving a day
Large	51–90 lbs (22–90 kg)	3 tablespoons	1 serving a day
Extra large	91 lbs or more (90 kg and more)	4 tablespoons	1 serving a day

How to Feed Pumpkin to Dogs

To make the dish safe, it’s essential to consider specific aspects of cooking and serving it to your furry companion. Let’s review the key considerations.

1. Choose correctly

If you decide to cook pumpkin puree at home, start by selecting the right fruit. Choose one that is fresh, firm, and has unblemished skin. A ripe pumpkin should be hard and produce a hollow sound when you tap it. Remove inedible parts, such as the skin or fibrous stems, before cooking the fruit.

2. Prepare the pumpkin for dogs safely

As we’ve mentioned, it’s best to avoid feeding pumpkin to dogs if it’s raw. If you choose a canned pumpkin instead, ensure you offer your pet only plain pumpkin without added sugar, spices, or other substances.

Alternatively, you can cook pumpkin yourself. Roast or boil it (without pumpkin seeds) and then mash it to make a puree. Your aim is a smooth and even texture. Cool it down before serving.

3. Serve properly

When it comes to serving plain pumpkin to a dog, you have several solutions:

Mix into dog’s food: The easiest way to give a dog pumpkin is to add a recommended amount of plain canned pumpkin puree into their kibble
Serve as a healthy treat: One popular option is to freeze a mixture of the fruit with other treats, such as banana or peanut butter, and then freeze it; your pet will enjoy licking it
Stuff into a toy: Stuff the puree into a Kong, mix in other dog-friendly fruits, and then freeze.

4. Important considerations

Start with small amounts: Introduce the fruit gradually to your dog’s diet and observe how well they can tolerate it. Adding too much fiber, especially for dogs with diarrhea, can be hazardous as it exacerbates the situation.
Avoid added ingredients: Whether you choose plain canned pumpkin or prepare it at home, give your dog pumpkin as an unseasoned dish with no added ingredients, such as sugar, salt, or spices.
Consult your vet: It’s best to discuss dietary modifications with a professional, especially if your pet suffers from digestive tract issues (helping with a dog’s stool).
Watch for overfeeding: Stick to the suggested portion size to avoid adding too much fiber to your dog’s diet, which can cause digestive issues. Remember, fruits are treats for canines, so they shouldn’t occupy more than 10% of a balanced diet.

Wrap Up

Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins and nutrients for your canine companion. However, it should be served with caution to avoid overfeeding the pet and causing health issues. Stick to cooked pumpkin (canned pumpkin or home-made puree) products and serve them plain, avoiding additives. Following these simple rules guarantees that this season will be enjoyable for your furry friend.

FAQ

Written by

Woofz Team

Passionate team dedicated to help pet owners raise safe and obedient dogs, fostering meaningful connections with their furry companions.

Reviewed by

Shannon Kenny

CPDT-KA certified trainer with over 4 years of experience working with hundreds of dog owners.