Health Benefits of Pumpkins
Posted by Phoebe Mason on
As this is the season of pumpkin spice, you might be wondering if pumpkin is also safe for your dog to eat? The answer is, yes!
Pumpkin has many health benefits to our hounds, from shiny coats to better eyesight. Did you know that dogs can enjoy pumpkin as a tasty snack either raw or cooked, as part of a balanced diet?
Health benefits of pumpkin
-Pumpkin is actually so nutritious that it's classified as a superfood! It's so full of vitamins and minerals that feeding the fruit can help boost your dog's nutrition. Not only is it loaded with vitamins A, C and E, in addition to minerals such as iron and potassium, it's also high in antioxidant beta-carotene, which help promote skin and eye health.
-It's a great source of naturally occurring fibre to help promote a strong digestive system. Not only is pumpkin low in calories, but it's also packed full of fibre, to help keep your dog feeling fuller, for longer; especially beneficial to those hounds watching their weight.
-Paw-fect for hydration! Pumpkin is 90% water, making it a fantastic way of hydrating your hound.
-Helps aid digestion. If your hound is experiencing any digestive issues or unhappy stomachs, pumpkin could be a good option to mix in with their usual food.
How to feed it
You can spread cooked squash onto a Liki mat, or stuff it into a Kong, to add healthy variety into your pup's palate. With so many benefits, there's no reason it shouldn't be included in your hound's weekly diet!
Although pumpkin can be fed raw, it's best to stick to steamed, baked or roasted pumpkin, but if you choose to feed it raw, remember to remove the stem and only feed in smaller quantities.
As with any food, always feed in moderation.