Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Yes, dogs can eat plain pumpkin. Pure pumpkin is a healthy food for dogs, and the AKC says it can help with both diarrhea and constipation. The key is “plain.” Pumpkin pie filling, pumpkin spice, and many baked goods can hurt your dog.

What kind of pumpkin is best for dogs?

The AKC suggests two simple choices:

• Canned 100% pumpkin puree. Plain canned pumpkin has more fiber than fresh pumpkin because it has less water.
• Roasted pumpkin. Roast it yourself and feed only the peeled flesh.

Pumpkin powder made for pets is also an option, as are pumpkin treats made for dogs. The pages I read don’t say anything about raw pumpkin, skin, or seeds. Stick with the cooked, peeled flesh and ask your vet about the rest.

Why is pumpkin good for dogs?

Pumpkin has soluble fiber. The AKC explains that this fiber soaks up water and adds bulk to stool. It also feeds the helpful bacteria in the gut. That is why pumpkin can help when stool is too loose or too hard.

How much pumpkin can a dog eat?

The AKC suggests adding 1 to 4 tablespoons of pumpkin to your dog’s meal. Start with a smaller amount. Too much fiber can upset the stomach.

When should I call the vet instead?

Pumpkin only helps with mild problems. The AKC says to call your vet if your dog has:

• Diarrhea that keeps going or has blood in it
• Weakness, fever, or vomiting
• Constipation with no known cause
• Diarrhea and is a puppy (this can be an emergency)

Other kinds of pumpkin

Can dogs eat pumpkin muffins?

No, not as a treat. Muffins are not plain pumpkin. The FDA says some muffins, cakes, and pies are made with xylitol, especially ones made for people with diabetes. Some bakeries and home bakers use it too. Check the ingredients.

Even without xylitol, the AKC says sugar, fat, and dairy in pumpkin baked goods can upset a dog’s stomach and may lead to pancreatitis (a painful swelling of the pancreas). Pumpkin spice treats can also have extras like raisins, nuts, or chocolate, which are harmful too.

If your dog ate a muffin, read the ingredient list. If you see xylitol, or if you can’t tell, call your vet right away.

Can dogs eat pumpkin pie or pie filling?

No. The AKC says pie filling may contain xylitol. Pie also has sugar, fat, and dairy, and the crust is buttery.

Can dogs eat pumpkin spice?

No. Pumpkin spice is a mix of spices, not pumpkin. It includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. The AKC says nutmeg can be toxic in larger amounts. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, and hallucinations.

What should I do after my dog eats pumpkin pie or muffins?

Look at the ingredient list or ask whoever baked it. If xylitol, nutmeg in large amounts, raisins, or chocolate is in it, call your vet or a poison hotline. If it was only sugar and butter, watch for vomiting and diarrhea, and call your vet if your dog seems unwell.

A simple way to serve pumpkin

Stir a spoonful of plain puree into your dog’s regular food. Don’t add sugar, spices, or butter. For other foods that can be risky, see our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs. For a more everyday treat, try bananas in small slices.