Are you making a recipe that calls for pumpkin? Scooping out pumpkins from the patch before carving Halloween jack-o-lanterns? Pumpkins are a staple in autumn cooking. If you’re a dog owner, you might be wondering – can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?
Will your dog be okay if they eat a few pumpkin seeds off the floor that you dropped while carving? Is it okay to feed them pumpkin seeds you just baked in the oven?
The simple answer is yes, pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs to eat, but only in small portions and when prepared correctly. You should never feed your dog seasoned pumpkin seeds, and you should always remove the shells. But as long as you’re careful, pumpkin seeds can be a healthy and fun fall addition to your dog’s diet.
Are Pumpkin Seeds Safe for Dogs?
Yes, pumpkin seeds are generally safe for dogs to eat. They can even provide some nutritional benefits when served in moderation. However, it’s also important to prepare pumpkin seeds properly before feeding them to your dog.
Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds for Dogs
They’re a Healthy Source of Nutrients
Pumpkin seeds are jam-packed full of healthy nutrients that can contribute to your dog’s overall health and wellbeing, including:
- Fiber for digestion
- Zinc and iron for mobility and joint health
- Antioxidants for immune function and longevity
- Healthy fats for brain and heart health
They Can Help with Deworming
In addition to the general health benefits, ground pumpkin seeds can actually function as a natural deworming remedy. But you should never rely solely on pumpkin seeds to treat worms. Always work with your veterinarian to develop a deworming treatment plan and discuss any at-home dietary measures with them before you proceed.
Should You Buy a Pumpkin Supplement for Your Dog?
Pumpkin is a source of soluble fiber, which can help encourage digestive health in dogs. If your dog suffers from runny stools, upset stomach, or diarrhea, a pumpkin supplement can help. It can also help with constipation.
Pumpkin supplements for dogs usually come in the form of a powder, which you can sprinkle on top of their food according to the instructions on the packaging. Just make sure you discuss it with your vet before you introduce a new supplement, and take it slow with dosing at first.
Potential Risks of Pumpkin Seeds for Dogs
While pumpkin seeds are generally safe and offer nutritional benefits for our furry friends, there are some potential risks to be aware of, including the following:
Choking hazard: Whole pumpkin seeds can be a choking hazard, especially for small dog breeds like chihuahuas and cocker spaniels.
Digestive issues: Pumpkin supplements are generally good for digestion, but raw pumpkin seeds can be difficult for dogs to digest, especially in large amounts.
Additives: Store-bought pumpkin seeds are often salted or seasoned; these additives can be dangerous for dogs.
Weight gain: The high fat content in pumpkin seeds can lead to weight gain or pancreatitis in dogs that have sensitivities to fatty foods.
Allergies: Although it’s rare, some dogs may have food allergies or intolerances to pumpkin seeds.
Spoiled seeds: Raw pumpkin seeds don’t last very long before they start to spoil; when they do, they can harbor mold and bacteria, which is dangerous for both dogs and humans.
How To Safely Serve Pumpkin Seeds To Your Dog
Talk To Your Vet
A few pumpkin seeds here and there may seem like no big deal. But before you introduce any new food to your dog’s diet, it’s a good idea to consult with your vet. They can advise you on when and how best to feed pumpkin to your pup and offer advice about preparation, moderation, and supplementation.
Be Careful About Portion Size
As with any treat, you should always feed your dog pumpkin seeds in moderation. The general rule of thumb is that treats should comprise no more than 10% of your dog’s overall diet. Too many pumpkin seeds too often can lead to digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
Remove Shells
You should always remove the shells before feeding seeds to your pup. Pumpkin seed shells can pose a choking hazard and swallowed shells can be difficult for your pet to digest.
Try Roasting The Seeds
Roasting pumpkin seeds prevents them from spoiling and makes them easier to digest for both dogs and humans. To roast the seeds:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Spread the seeds over a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, turning once halfway through baking.
- Allow the seeds to cool fully before serving.
Don’t Add Seasoning
If you’re feeding seeds to your dog, rather than powder or another type of supplement, you should always serve them fresh, unsalted, and unseasoned. If you’re preparing seasoned seeds for your family, make sure you keep them separate from the ones you prepare for your dog.
Watch For Allergic Reactions
When introducing any new food to your dog’s diet, you should always keep an eye out for allergic reactions, including:
If you notice these signs, you should always take your dog to see a veterinarian.
Supervise
Pumpkin seeds are considered a safe treat for dogs, but they do come with a small risk of choking, digestive upset, and allergic reactions. Watch your dog carefully during and after consumption.
Start Slow
Even with precautions, you should always take it slow when you first introduce pumpkin seeds to your dog’s diet. Try giving them just a seed or two, and see how it goes before you offer them more pumpkin seeds or other pumpkin products on a regular basis.
Final Thoughts
When prepared and served properly, pumpkin seeds can be a wonderful treat for your pup to enjoy. They’re tasty, healthy, and a great autumnal addition to their diet. Just be sure to take all necessary precautions, start slow, and discuss dietary changes with your vet.