Halloween is getting closer and, if you're like my family, you'll be scooping out pumpkin guts before you know it. While we're cutting the pumpkin and drinking our pumpkin spice lattes, we're taking out as much of the pumpkin gunk as we can. Meanwhile, our dog is next to the dining room table waiting for something to accidentally fall onto the floor. But wait, can dogs eat pumpkin guts? It's best to find out before your dog scarfs some down.
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Guts?
The short answer is yes. Most dogs can eat pumpkin guts. But hold on a minute. Don’t just scoop the guts out of the pumpkin and throw them to your dog. I know you want to share pumpkin everything with your pup, but the pumpkin guts need to be prepared properly first.
Grab a handful and put them on a rimmed baking sheet. Then, roast them at 350°F for between 20 and 25 minutes. Use only guts — not the pumpkin seeds. We’ll talk about those in a minute.
Once the guts are done cooking, let them cool and share them with your pooch.
You can keep your roasted pumpkin guts in the fridge for up to three days or store them in the freezer for up to six months.
Offer Pumpkin Guts in Moderation
Just like any other treat, moderation is key. Too much of a good thing can turn into a bad thing really quickly. Overindulging in pumpkin guts can give your dog an upset tummy, and nobody wants that. A small spoonful is plenty to keep them happy, while providing their body with some added nutrition.
Pumpkin is packed with nutrients, including fiber, beta-carotene, and vitamins.
Sharing the Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are delicious, especially when they're freshly roasted. Plus, they're super good for us. But even though they're good for us, they aren't that great for our dogs. Our bodies are designed to digest seeds, but your dog's digestive system doesn't process them the same as ours. They're hard for our dogs to digest. If you happen to drop a couple, it probably won't lead to any problems, but too many can cause constipation, diarrhea, and an upset stomach.
Some Dogs Can't Have Guts or Seeds
Some dogs, even though they're staring at you with those adorable puppy eyes, shouldn't eat pumpkin guts or seeds. While pumpkin guts can be a delightful treat, there are some circumstances where it's better to avoid them. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or allergies to certain foods, consult your vet before introducing anything new into their diet.
Don't share your latte; pumpkin-flavored or spiced products can contain harmful ingredients like xylitol or nutmeg.
What Happens if Dogs Eat Raw Pumpkin Guts?
If you accidentally drop some guts, it's not the end of the world. And fresh pumpkin guts aren't as bad as pumpkin guts that have been sitting out on the porch for the past week. Pumpkin guts that have been hanging around could contain mold and bacteria. These unwanted germs may give your pup an upset stomach or serious GI problems, depending on how your dog's immune system handles them.
Enjoy Pumpkin Carving With the Fam
You and your family, including your dog, can enjoy pumpkin carving and snacking on pumpkin guts. But skip the seeds, at least for your pup. Grab some guts, remove the seeds, and bake a handful of pumpkin slime for your pooch while you’re enjoying the Halloween festivities.
