Just some info I have cut and pasted and also amended to include directions.




It’s pumpkin season! While you may think that the orange globes are simply a sign of the Fall, did you know that pumpkin can actually be very useful to dog owners?

Pumpkins are chock full of beta carotene, potassium, Vitamin C & A, calcium and fiber. A pumpkins roughage combined with its high water content can be especially useful when dealing with a dog that has diarrhea OR constipation.

You can give your pet canned pumpkin (make sure it is PURE pumpkin - NOT pumpkin pie filling) or make your own puree with a fresh pumpkin to aid your pup with GI distress. Most dogs love the flavor and texture (it is very similar to canned dog food).

Cut a pumpkin into segments, remove and discard seeds and slimy middle. Remove outer skin and chop into small chunks.

Either steam for 45-50 minutes or boil for 25 mins or until tender. Mash, portion, serve or freeze.

Here is a guide to help you figure out how much pumpkin to give your dog at a meal:
Under 15 lbs = 1 - 2 teaspoons
15-30 lbs = 1 - 2 tablespoons
30 lbs and up = 2 - 5 tablespoons depending on the size of the dog

If your dog is showing other signs of illness (listlessness, dehydration, bloody stool, etc) please call your veterinarian.

Pumpkin is also a low calorie treat- measuring about 30 calories per cup. If your dog is overweight, you can substitute 33% of his normal meals with pumpkin to help him drop the pounds. Pumpkin not only provides the vitamins I discussed above, but is dense and will help him feel full. Make sure you discuss any diet plan with your vet before you take the plunge.

You can cut a whole pumpkin into pieces and freeze them! They make great consumable gnawing toys for a later date.

There are many other fruits and veggies out there that are healthful treats for your pup, however pumpkins prove themselves to be quite valuable!

So, while pumpkins are in the stores or allotments please stock up and get making that puree for those unwanted movements or just for a treat. This is especially pertinent for those in the uk as we do not seem to have canned Pumpkin available.

Ooh! Thanks for the wonderful info about these large orange globes, Nick. I knew the pros of pumpkins, but didn't know about the low calorie thing nor did I know pumpkins could be used in a pup's diet plan. lol.

Although, there will never be a shortage of pumpkins in Texas...I'm afraid we have a surplus.

Great information to know, Pumkins are right for the picking now in North Carolina. I drive by at least a dozen stands on my way home from work. I like the frozen treat idea. I think raw pumkin will be ok to feed as well. My 3 Tamaskans love to chew on water mellons rind and all. I bet they will love this.

Jasper and, especially, Vixen both can't stand the smell of pumpkin... I tried mixing it in with their food recently... not a chance!