It’s that time of year again, where pumpkins are everywhere. From the PSL to breads and pastries, we’re enjoying the official flavor of autumn, so why shouldn’t our pets?
The health benefits alone are a great reason to incorporate pumpkin into our pooches diet. Just one of the best benefits of pumpkin for dogs is that it aids in stomach issues. Pumpkin is a great source of fiber, carbohydrates and protein.
Since pumpkin is rich in fiber, it acts as a binding solution in your pup’s tummy. This agent then helps slow digestion and helps manage diarrhea by absorbing water in the digestive tract. Keep in mind that not only does pumpkin help diarrhea, it also relieves signs of constipation.
Pumpkin has an ingredient called cucurbitin, which is an amino acid in pumpkin seeds. Many young pups have issues with intestinal parasites and tapeworms. Cucurbitin actually acts as a natural de-worming agent!
Pumpkins are packed with plenty of vitamins beyond fiber. The flesh of them contain vitamin A. This vitamin in particular is what helps support a dog’s vision. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamin C, which helps support a dog’s immune system and ease joint problems Additionally, the zinc found in pumpkin helps improve the skin and coat of a dog.
Maybe your dog doesn’t have a lot of medical issues, but rather is just on the chunkier side. Pumpkin is great for adding more substance to your animal’s food.
The extra fiber will also help your fur-baby feel full, even if they’re eating fewer calories overall. For this reason, pumpkin can aid in a pet’s weight loss by substituting some of their regular food with a portion of pumpkin. Since pumpkin slows digestion, your pet will feel fuller for longer.
You’re probably wondering what kind of pumpkin you should be picking up for your pooch. The whole pumpkin? Pumpkin pie? Canned pumpkin?
If you said canned pumpkin, you are correct! Make sure you stay away from ones with added spices, fats and sugars. Plain, canned pureed pumpkin is the best choice for your pup.
However, always consult your veterinarian as a precaution before adding it to your dog’s diet to make sure he isn’t suffering from a more serious gastrointestinal issue. Your vet will also be able to tell you the right amount for the size of your pup.
Here is a fun recipe for peanut butter pumpkin dog treats that you can use to make treats for your fur-baby! Watch the video HERE.
Almost all pet parents know how much their pooch loves peanut butter, so throwing some pumpkin in, will make it that much better. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. You will need a few ingredients for this such as:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ¼ cup canned pumpkin
- ½ cup of peanut butter
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Whisk together the flour, eggs, pumpkin, peanut butter, salt and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add water as needed to help make the dough workable. You’ll know when the dough becomes dry and stiff. Bake for 40 minutes and let cool. Then… Bone Appetit.
Another tasty treat for your fur-friend that you can also enjoy is banana and pumpkin cookies. You will need to start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees. The ingredients called for in this recipe are:
- 1 Ripe banana
- ½ can of pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1½ cups of whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon of baking powder
Once you have all of your ingredients, mix the pumpkin, banana and honey into a large bowl. Add flour and baking powder for texture. And just like the other recipe, you want the dough to be dry. Bake for roughly 11 minutes, let cool and enjoy with your dog.
This holiday season try out some of these PUP-kin recipes with your fur-baby. They are sure to appreciate the time with you along with a yummy treat!
If you loved this treat, you should see what else we have to offer.
