When your pup has an upset stomach, your vet may recommend adding pumpkin to their diet. But how much pumpkin for dog upset stomach is enough?
Pumpkin is a natural source of dietary fiber and is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. The pumpkin helps to firm up stools and aids in digestion. For these reasons, pumpkin is often recommended for dogs with digestive issues.
How Much Pumpkin for Dog Upset Stomach?
The amount of pumpkin your pup needs depends on their size. Your vet can give you the exact amount, but you can use the following guidelines as a general reference:
Small Dogs (less than 10 lbs)
For small dogs, start with 1 tablespoon of pumpkin per day. This should be split between meals. If your pup’s digestive issues persist, increase the amount by 1 tablespoon each day until the issue improves.
Medium Dogs (11-30 lbs)
For medium-sized dogs, start with 2 tablespoons of pumpkin per day. This should be split between meals. If your pup’s digestive issues persist, increase the amount by 1 tablespoon each day until the issue improves.
Large Dogs (31-50 lbs)
For large dogs, start with 3 tablespoons of pumpkin per day. This should be split between meals. If your pup’s digestive issues persist, increase the amount by 1 tablespoon each day until the issue improves.
Giant Dogs (over 50 lbs)
For giant dogs, start with 4 tablespoons of pumpkin per day. This should be split between meals. If your pup’s digestive issues persist, increase the amount by 1 tablespoon each day until the issue improves.
Types of Pumpkin for Dogs
When giving your pup pumpkin, it’s important to make sure that you’re using the correct type of pumpkin. Make sure to use canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree, as other forms of pumpkin can be difficult to digest.
Canned Pumpkin
Canned pumpkin is the most common form of pumpkin for dogs. It’s easy to find in most grocery stores and is cost effective. It’s important to make sure that you’re using plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and other additives that can make your pup sick.
Fresh Pumpkin Puree
If you’d like to make your own pumpkin puree for your pup, it’s easy to do. Start by purchasing a sugar or pie pumpkin. Cut the pumpkin in half and scrape out the seeds and strings. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Once the pumpkin is soft, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a food processor or blender.
Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs
Pumpkin is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps to firm up stools and aids in digestion. It’s also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals help to support your pup’s immune system and overall health.
Pumpkin is also low in calories, so it’s a great choice for overweight pups. The high fiber content helps to keep your pup feeling full and satisfied, so they don’t feel the need to overeat.
Risks of Pumpkin for Dogs
Although pumpkin is generally safe for dogs, there are a few risks associated with feeding it to your pup. Too much pumpkin can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting. It can also lead to weight gain if given in large amounts.
It’s also important to be careful when feeding pumpkin to diabetic dogs. The high fiber content of pumpkin can affect blood sugar levels, so it’s important to monitor your pup’s blood sugar levels closely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much pumpkin should I feed my dog?
The amount of pumpkin you should feed your pup depends on their size. Small dogs should start with 1 tablespoon per day, medium dogs should start with 2 tablespoons per day, large dogs should start with 3 tablespoons per day, and giant dogs should start with 4 tablespoons per day.
What type of pumpkin should I feed my dog?
You should only feed your pup canned pumpkin or fresh pumpkin puree. Do not feed your pup pumpkin pie filling, as it contains sugar and additives that can be harmful to your pup.
Are there any risks associated with feeding pumpkin to my dog?
Yes, there are a few risks associated with feeding pumpkin to your pup. Too much pumpkin can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting, and it can also lead to weight gain if given in large amounts. It’s also important to be careful when feeding pumpkin to diabetic dogs, as the high fiber content can affect blood sugar levels.
Can I feed my dog raw pumpkin?
No, you should not feed your pup raw pumpkin. Raw pumpkin is difficult to digest and can cause digestive issues.
Can I give my dog canned pumpkin pie filling?
No, you should not give your pup canned pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling contains sugar and other additives that can be harmful to your pup.
Can I feed my dog cooked pumpkin?
Yes, you can feed your pup cooked pumpkin. Make sure to cook the pumpkin thoroughly, as raw pumpkin can be difficult to digest.
Can I feed my dog canned pumpkin every day?
No, you should not feed your pup canned pumpkin every day. Too much pumpkin can lead to digestive issues and weight gain.
Can I feed my dog homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can feed your pup homemade pumpkin puree. Start by purchasing a sugar or pie pumpkin and cutting it in half. Place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 45 minutes. Once the pumpkin is soft, scoop out the flesh and puree it in a food processor or blender.
Is pumpkin good for dogs with upset stomachs?
Yes, pumpkin is often recommended for dogs with digestive issues. The dietary fiber helps to firm up stools and aids in digestion.