Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

As someone with a sweet tooth and severe caffeine addiction, I always look forward to PSL season (or pumpkin spice latte season for the uninitiated). While my furry friend cannot indulge in pumpkin spice lattes, I always make sure that she can enjoy something PSL adjacent. 

While canine companions can’t sip on a pumpkin spice latte, they can eat cooked or canned plain pumpkins. Not only is the squash delicious, but it can also alleviate some of your pup’s stomach issues. According to the AKC, “soluble fiber content in pumpkin adds bulk to your dog’s stool by absorbing water, and fiber fermentation produces beneficial fatty acids that supply energy to cells, stimulate intestinal sodium and water absorption, and lower the pH level of the large intestines.” 

Photo by Josh Hild on Unsplash

While it might not taste exactly like a PSL, your dog is sure to appreciate a pumpkin spice flavor treat, made from canned pumpkin. Southern Bytes has a delicious recipe that calls for canned pumpkin, oats, whole wheat flour, eggs, and peanut butter. 

Just a quick reminder – please talk to your vet before introducing pumpkin into your furry friend’s diet! You never know if your canine companion may be allergic to the squash or if they have health issues that make it so pumpkin is not suitable in their diet!

Photo by Ben Hanson on Unsplash