Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Amanda Charles

BVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Pumpkin seeds are one of the favorite healthy snacks for many people worldwide. While enjoying pumpkin seeds, you may have noticed your dog begging you for a bit of taste. At this point, you may wonder whether pumpkin seeds are safe for your pet to consume and if they can benefit from them too.

Lucky for you both, pumpkin seeds are a safe snack that your dog can occasionally enjoy. If you want to learn more about feeding your dog pumpkin seeds, read the article below.

Dog-Safe Human Foods and Snacks

Every diligent pet parent knows the importance of feeding your dog a healthy, well-balanced meal and including only the healthiest snacks. While you may often catch your dog eyeing you for a bite of every food they smell, we all know that most human foods are unsafe for our pups to consume. Sometimes the safety of a particular food depends on how it is prepared; for example, cashews can be a safe snack for pups as long as they’re served raw and unsalted.

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds?

Pumpkin seeds are generally healthy and safe for our pups to eat. Pumpkin seeds are a great source of fiber, minerals, vitamins, proteins, and antioxidants. As with all seeds and nuts, they are energy dense and high in fat and calories. Pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs to eat, both with and without the shell. However, before offering your dog pumpkin seeds, you must ensure they are roasted and unsalted. Additionally, pumpkin seeds can present a choking hazard for small dogs, so you can roast them, grind them, and top their regular meal with them.

Nutritional Facts of Roasted, Unsalted Pumpkin Seeds Per 100 Grams:¹

How to Feed Pumpkin Seeds to Dogs Safely

Feeding your dog pumpkin seeds only occasionally is fine as long as it’s done in moderation. When you offer your dog pumpkin seeds for the first time, only give them a small amount—a couple of seeds—and monitor them. Roast the seeds thoroughly without salts, spices, or oils.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your dog eats pumpkin seeds safely without side effects. For advice on whether pumpkin seeds are a suitable addition to your dog’s diet, or if you notice any adverse effects after feeding your dog pumpkin seeds, consult your veterinarian.

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Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?

Pumpkins are safe, healthy, and beneficial for dogs in moderate amounts. Pumpkins are high in fiber, which can make them a healthy choice to promote regular bowel movement and digestive health. Besides being fiber-rich, pumpkins also contain vitamins A, E, and C and minerals such as potassium and iron.

Conclusion

After reading about the safety of feeding your dog pumpkin seeds, you’ll be happy to know you can enjoy this delicious treat with your pup. Speak to your vet before offering your dog pumpkin seeds for the first time to make sure it is suitable for them, especially if they have a sensitive stomach or health issues.  If you are worried about your dog not chewing the seeds properly and potentially choking on them, we advise you to grind them up after roasting and sprinkle them onto your dog’s food. Pumpkin seeds can be beneficial for dogs as long as they’re fed in moderation.

Related Read: 

• Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Seeds? Vet Approved Nutrition Facts & FAQ
• Can Dogs Eat Poppy Seeds? Vet-Approved Risks & FAQ
• Can Dogs Eat Watermelon Seeds? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Info

Featured Image Credit: Susana Martins, Pixabay