As the nights grow longer and Halloween lurks just around the corner, you might be thinking about the seasonal treats you can give to your furry friend.
Pumpkin is a paw-some choice. It’s festive, nutritious, and easy to find in stores throughout September and October. But can dogs eat pumpkin safely?
Let’s find out (no tricks, just treats).
Why Pumpkin Can Be Good for Dogs
Pumpkin isn’t just festive, it’s generally considered dog friendly too. It’s low in calories, rich in fibre, and contains vitamins like A, C, and E. In small amounts it can help with digestion (especially mild constipation) and support gut health. Many natural dog treat recipes include pumpkin for those reasons.
But remember, too much of a good thing can turn treats into tricks! Moderation is key. Too much pumpkin can cause upset tummies. Also avoid added sugars, spices, or flavourings like nutmeg – those are no-go for dogs.
What To Avoid
Though pumpkin is generally safe for dogs in moderation, there a few things that are a no-go for your furry friend:
Pumpkin pie filling or processed pumpkin mixes as these often have sugar, spices, and other additives not safe for dogs.
Seeds and shells because the hard shell of a pumpkin and the seeds are a choking risk or may upset digestion.
Flavoured pumpkin products which means anything with xylitol, chocolate, or sweeteners must be avoided.
How Much Pumpkin Is Safe?
For a medium-sized dog, a teaspoon to one tablespoon of plain cooked pumpkin a day is plenty, and you should always introduce gradually.
If your dog has health issues like diabetes or pancreatitis, check with your vet first.
A little pumpkin goes a long way towards a happy, healthy tail wag!
Our Favourite Ready Pumpkin Treat
For a fuss-free, safe snack, try our Grain Free Chicken & Pumpkin Treats.
Gently oven-baked, they combine tasty chicken with ingredients like sweet potato, pumpkin, and linseed. Baked longer for extra crunch, their unique shape helps keep teeth clean, and breath fresh!
These treats are the perfect way to let your pup enjoy this lovely autumnal flavour safely.
DIY Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe
Feeling crafty? Whip up some spooky pumpkin bites at home with this simple recipe. They’re paw-sitively delicious!
Ingredients
100g plain pumpkin puree (no added salt or sugar)
1 egg
150 g wholemeal wheat flour or oat flour (if your dog is fine with grains)
A tablespoon of water if needed
Method
Preheat oven to 180 °C (fan 160 °C)
In a bowl, mix the pumpkin puree and egg until smooth
Gradually add flour and stir to form a dough; if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon or two of water
Roll out (on a floured surface) to about 5 mm thickness
Cut into spooky shapes such as bones, pumpkins, or ghosts
Place on a baking tray lined with parchment paper
Bake for 20–25 minutes until firm and lightly golden
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze extras for the future
By following our pumpkin-safe advice, your pup can enjoy the flavour of the season, and you can both get into the Halloween spirit, if you dare…
Share your pumpkin preparation tips with us on Instagram and Facebook, and to find out more tips and tricks on pet care from our Pointer pet experts, visit our blog.