Gut Feeling: How Pumpkin Can Soothe Digestive Discomfort in Dogs
- andrea090170
- Oct 5
- 2 min read
Digestive issues are one of the most common reasons dogs end up at the vet. Gas, bloating, diarrhoea, and constipation can make your pup miserable - and leave you worried.
The good news? Nature provides a simple, safe remedy: pumpkin. Rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, pumpkin is a gentle way to support your dog’s digestive health and keep their gut happy.
Why Pumpkin Helps Digestion
Pumpkin is more than a tasty treat — it’s a nutritional powerhouse:
Fibre-rich → Balances digestion by firming up loose stools (diarrhoea) or softening hard ones (constipation).
Soluble + insoluble fibre → Absorbs excess water while adding bulk to the stool — a win-win for tummy troubles.
Prebiotic action → Nourishes healthy gut bacteria, supporting digestion and immune function.
Antioxidants → Reduce inflammation and protect the gut lining, especially helpful for dogs with chronic digestive issues.
Vitamins & minerals → Pumpkin provides vitamins A, C, E, potassium, and iron for overall vitality.
How to Use Pumpkin for Dogs
Plain, cooked pumpkin → steam or bake fresh pumpkin, then mash.
Canned pumpkin puree → make sure it’s unsweetened and free of added spices (no pumpkin pie filling!).
Serving size (general guideline):
Small dogs: 1 teaspoon
Medium dogs: 1–2 tablespoons
Large dogs: 2–4 tablespoons👉 Always start small and adjust as needed.
DIY Pumpkin Treat Recipe
Here’s a simple way to add pumpkin into your dog’s routine:
Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Treats
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
¼ cup xylitol-free peanut butter
2 eggs
3 cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for sensitive tummies)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix pumpkin, peanut butter, and eggs.
Stir in flour to form dough.
Roll out to ¼ inch thick, cut into shapes.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.
Not only are these treats delicious, they’re gut-friendly too!
Pumpkin is one of the easiest, safest ways to soothe digestive upset in dogs. Whether it’s occasional diarrhoea, mild constipation, or a sensitive tummy, this humble orange squash can make a big difference.
As with all remedies, introduce slowly, monitor your dog, and consult a vet if symptoms persist. With pumpkin in your toolkit, you’ll always have a natural way to support your pup’s digestive comfort.
🌿 Want more gentle remedies like this? Download my E-book : Herbal Remedies for Happy Hounds.
Comments