Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? And Other Things To Know

Pumpkin seeds are a popular snack for humans, but can dogs eat pumpkin seeds

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat pumpkin seeds. However, it’s important to remember that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Before you give your pup pumpkin seeds, it’s a good idea to consult your vet.

Pumpkin seeds are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your pup. Many dog owners also include pumpkin seeds in their dog’s regular diet to give them an immune system boost and promote heart health.

However, there is a chance that your dog won’t like the taste of pumpkin seeds. If this happens, don’t force them to eat it. Only feed your pup a few at a time until they adjust to the taste.

If you are looking for a new flavor to your dog’s diet, you can use store-bought bone broth for dogs or healthy wet dog food.

Pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs if you go about it the right way. However, some dogs can have an adverse reaction to pumpkin seeds due to their high-fat content..

What happens if your lovable pup eats pumpkin seeds? What are the benefits? How can I safely feed my dog pumpkin seeds? 

Read on as we answer these questions and more.

What Happens If A Dog Eats A Pumpkin Seed?

If your dog eats a pumpkin seed, there is no need to worry. Pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs. In general, most vets recommend pumpkin seeds as part of a healthy diet for dogs that need to gain weight or have chronic health problems such as arthritis.

bull terrier eating pumpkin

However, some dogs may react poorly to eating high-fat food like pumpkin seeds. If your dog reacts badly to the taste of pumpkin seeds, don’t force them to eat it and consult your vet.

Read More: Best Food for Chihuahua. Let’s examine what to look for in Chihuahua dog food.

What Are The Benefits Of Pumpkin Seeds To My Dog?

There are many benefits to feeding your dog pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can promote heart health and give your pup an immune system boost. Here are 6 benefits:

1) High levels of Zinc

Pumpkin seeds also contain high levels of zinc, which is important for dogs as it helps with wound healing, cell growth, and the production of antioxidants. This means that if your dog gets a wound, the zinc from the pumpkin seeds would help it to heal faster.

2) High in Fiber and Antioxidants

Pumpkin seeds are also high in fiber and antioxidants, which can work well for dogs with bowel problems or diabetes. It can be difficult for dogs with these health issues to maintain a healthy weight, so pumpkin seeds can help them to do so.

3) Source of Vitamins and Minerals

Pumpkin seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. All of these are important for dogs and can promote healthy skin, hair, teeth, bones, and joints.

4) Protein

Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, which is good for dogs with kidney disease or other health issues.

5) Healthy Urinary System

These seeds contain antioxidants as well as fatty acids, which are crucial for improving urinary health and preventing and treating infections.

Pumpkin seed oil can be used to help older dogs with an active bladder. Pumpkin seeds oil can be used to treat and prevent the development of kidney stones.

6) Gets rid of Worms

Pumpkin seeds can be effective in getting rid of worms in dogs. They work to expel the parasites from the intestines, making them a great natural remedy for this problem.

How Can I Safely Feed Pumpkin Seeds To My Dog?

The best way to safely feed pumpkin seeds to your dog is by starting with a small amount and gradually increasing it. If your dog doesn’t like the taste of pumpkin seeds, don’t force them to eat it. Only give them a few at a time until they get used to it.

pumpkin seeds

It’s also important to remember that not all dog breeds can eat pumpkin seeds even if they have a nut allergy. 

Nut allergies affect all dogs, but there is some evidence that it’s more common in some dog breeds such as the Maltese and Lhasa Apso.

Pumpkin seeds contain a lot of fiber which can be good for your pup’s digestive health. 

However, large amounts of fiber can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and minerals, so don’t give your dog more than a quarter tablespoon per 10 pounds of their body weight.

If you’re giving pumpkin seeds to your pup regularly, be sure that they are getting all the essential vitamins and minerals that they need daily. Read the label on the pumpkin seed package to make sure that it meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

People Also Ask

Can Pumpkin Seeds Upset A Dog’s Stomach?

Pumpkin seeds are generally safe for dogs, but some dogs may experience stomach upset when they eat too many.

If your dog has a nut allergy they can be allergic to pumpkin seeds as well. If your dog’s stomach upset easily, then we suggest that you read treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Do Pumpkin Seeds Deworm Dogs?

Pumpkin seeds can expel worms from the intestines and thus help to deworm dogs. It works by killing the worms and their eggs. Pumpkin seeds contain lectins which can stimulate the production of stomach acids to expel parasites from the intestines.

Are Pumpkins Poisonous To Dogs?

No, pumpkins are not poisonous to dogs. Dogs can eat the flesh and seeds of pumpkins without any problems. However, too much fiber from pumpkin seeds can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and minerals, so don’t give your dog more than a quarter tablespoon per 10 pounds of their body weight.

Conclusion

Pumpkin seeds are a nutritious food for dogs that can provide a range of health benefits. They are high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and they can help to get rid of worms.

Pumpkin seeds can be fed to dogs in small amounts, and they should only eat pumpkin seeds that have been properly cleaned and hulled. If your dog has a nut allergy or is prone to eating things they shouldn’t eat, make sure to keep pumpkin seeds out of their reach.

Did you feed your dog pumpkin seeds? Did they enjoy it? Let us know in the comments!

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Lovelia Horn

I’m a certified crazy dog mom, a physical therapist (for hoomans), writer, animal rescuer, and foster home provider. Together with my hubby Ryan, I’ve fostered and helped look for forever homes for over a hundred shelter dogs in the Southern Illinois area. I mostly work with Puppy Rescue 911, Inc., a certified animal rescue organization based out of Chester, IL (home of Popeye!)

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