Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? Here’s What a Veterinarian Says

It’s that time of year again: pumpkin season! From carving jack-o’-lanterns to roasting pepitas, there are so many fun activities to enjoy with family and friends. But what about our furry friends? If you’re tempted to toss your dog a few seeds while you’re snacking, you might find yourself wondering: Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds? Here, a veterinary expert offers the scoop on what’s safe and healthy for your pup.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?

The short answer? Yes, dogs can snack on fresh pumpkin seeds in moderation. While these little seeds are super nutritious for humans—packed with antioxidants, magnesium, iron, zinc, and more—they don’t quite pack the same punch for our pets. So if your dog snags a few seeds from the floor, no need to panic. But if you’re considering adding them to your dog’s diet regularly, you might want to think twice.

Here’s a fun fact: Dogs can actually enjoy pumpkin puree and pulp! A small spoonful of pureed pumpkin can be a tasty, fiber-filled addition to their meal, helping them feel fuller for longer. Just make sure to check with your vet before changing up their diet.

Are Pumpkin Seeds Healthy for Dogs?

Here’s the scoop: Pumpkin seeds are safe, but they’re not exactly health food for your dog. According to Dr. Sarah J. Wooten, a veterinarian from Sheep Draw Veterinary Hospital, dogs don’t digest seeds the same way humans do. “Those nutrients that people love about pumpkin seeds aren’t available to dogs,” she explains.

And let’s clear up a common myth: Pumpkin seeds aren’t effective for getting rid of worms or parasites. While some articles claim they can help with that, Dr. Wooten warns that if you feed your dog a lot of seeds, they might just end up with an upset stomach. The best bet for worm issues is always to chat with your vet about the right deworming medication.

To sum it up, your dog can have pumpkin seeds in moderation, but don’t expect them to work miracles for their health.

Risks of Feeding Too Many Pumpkin Seeds to Your Dog

While a couple of pumpkin seeds won’t hurt, too many can lead to some not-so-fun consequences. “Feeding your dog too many pumpkin seeds can cause stomach upset, constipation, or diarrhea,” Dr. Wooten says. So, it’s important to keep an eye on portion sizes.

How to Feed Pumpkin Seeds to Your Dog

If you want your pup to feel included during pumpkin carving time, here are some tips from Dr. Wooten on how to safely share those seeds:

1. Watch for allergies: Start with just a couple of seeds and see how your dog reacts. If they have any adverse reactions like diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, stop feeding them seeds and contact your vet.
2. Remove the shells: Pumpkin seed shells can be choking hazards and are tough for dogs to digest. Boiling or rolling the seeds helps separate the edible parts from the shells.
3. Roast them right: Make sure your pumpkin seeds are roasted without oil, salt, or spices before sharing them with your pup.
4. Grind for good measure: Grinding pumpkin seeds into a powder can help with digestion and lower the risk of intestinal blockages or irritation.
5. Portion control is key: Again, it’s all about moderation. Small dogs can safely enjoy three to five seeds, medium dogs can have five to ten, and large dogs can munch on ten to twenty seeds in a day.

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