Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Yes, dogs can have pumpkin, but it’s important to stick to the right kinds. Plain, cooked pumpkin—whether fresh or canned—is safe and healthy for dogs. Common varieties like sugar pumpkins, pie pumpkins, and small jack-o’-lantern pumpkins are fine when cooked and served plain.  

Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which often contains added sugar, spices, or even xylitol, which is toxic to dogs. Large amounts of raw pumpkin seeds or the pumpkin skin can also be risky, as they may cause digestive upset or pose a choking hazard.  

Sticking to plain, cooked pumpkin from safe varieties is the best way to give your dog a tasty, nutritious treat.  

You can also treat your dog to pure canned pumpkin, like Nummy Tum-Tum, or pumpkin-flavored dog treats, like the following: 

Pumpkin is a healthy treat for dogs, loaded with nutrients and fiber. Here are some of its top benefits: 

• It’s low in calories and sodium. This makes pumpkin a healthy, guilt-free treat option for dogs of all sizes. 
• It’s rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Pumpkin is packed with beta-carotene, which dogs convert to vitamin A. This nutrient supports eye health and skin and coat quality. It also contains vitamins C and E to help strengthen the immune system. 
• It aids digestion. With both soluble and insoluble fiber, pumpkin can ease diarrhea and constipation. It also acts as a prebiotic, feeding healthy gut bacteria. 
• It supports anal gland health. Pumpkin’s fiber helps keep bowel movements regular, which can help bulk the stool and compress your dog’s anal glands. 
• It may aid in weight control. The fiber in pumpkin helps dogs feel fuller longer, which supports healthy weight maintenance. 

Pumpkin is generally safe for dogs, but there are a few risks to watch out for: 

• Too much vitamin A can be toxic. Excess vitamin A may cause nutritional imbalances and interfere with absorption of other nutrients. Signs of vitamin A toxicity include loss of appetite, vomiting, and lethargy. Call your vet if you notice these symptoms. 
• Too much fiber can upset digestion. While pumpkin can soothe an upset stomach, overdoing it can lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhea. Stick to small servings to avoid tummy troubles. 
• Raw pumpkin isn’t ideal. While not toxic, raw pumpkin can be tough to digest and can pose a risk of intestinal blockage. Always remove the skin, peel, stems, and leaves before giving pumpkin to your dog. 

Treats, including pumpkin, should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet, with the rest coming from a complete and balanced diet. 

While the right amount for your dog depends on their health status, generally, they should have about 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. For dogs of different sizes, that looks like this: 

Before sharing pumpkin with your pup, make sure it’s prepared properly. Here’s how: 

• Wash it. If you’re working with fresh pumpkin, wash thoroughly to remove dirt and any pesticide residue. 
• Remove skin, peel, and seeds. The outer skin, stems, and leaves can be tough to digest, so stick to the soft, cooked pulp. 
• Cook it. Steamed, boiled, or baked pumpkin pulp is best. Avoid raw pumpkin, which can cause stomach upset. 
• Keep it plain. Skip added salt, spices, sugar, butter, or oils. Canned pumpkin is fine, as long as it’s labeled 100% pure pumpkin, not pie filling. 

Now that the pumpkin is prepped, here are some fun ways to serve it: 

• As a small snack: Offer a small amount of plain pumpkin between meals. 
• Mixed in with food: Stir pumpkin into your dog’s regular food for a little nutritional boost. 
• Spread on a lick mat: Smear mashed pumpkin on a lick mat, like the Hyper Pet IQ Banquet Lick Mat, to keep your pup busy. 

• Stuffed into a toy: Fill a KONG Classic dog toy with pumpkin (plain or mixed with kibble) for extra enrichment. 

• Baked into homemade treats: Use pumpkin as an ingredient in homemade dog treats, like these pup-safe pumpkin pies. 

A little pumpkin is good for dogs, but too much can backfire. If your pup sneaks more than their fair share, you might notice: 

• Diarrhea 
• Vomiting 
• Bloating 
• Loss of appetite 
• Lethargy 

Most of the time, mild tummy troubles will clear up on their own, but it’s important to keep a close eye on your dog. If the symptoms are severe or don’t go away after a day, call your vet. They can help determine whether your dog just needs more time or if treatment is necessary. 

Can I give my dog pumpkin every day?  

Yes, you can give your dog pumpkin every day as long as it’s the right amount for their size. 

Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds? 

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin seeds but only if they’re roasted without oils, spices, or salt. 

Can dogs eat pumpkin pie? 

No. Pumpkin pie, including those labeled “organic” or “natural,” is off the menu as it is likely made with spices, like nutmeg, that can be toxic to dogs. It’s also high in sugar, and the crust is likely made with butter or other not-so-healthy fats.  

Can dogs eat raw pumpkin? 

Raw pumpkin isn’t recommended for dogs, as it’s tougher to chew and harder to digest than cooked pumpkin, which can lead to stomach upset. Pumpkin is safer (and tastier for your pup) when cooked and served plain. 

Can dogs eat pumpkin puree? 

Yes, pumpkin puree, including homemade or canned, is safe for dogs to eat at the recommended daily amount. Don’t ever give your dog pumpkin pie filling or other canned pumpkins with added spices.