Pumpkin seeds are a delicious and nutritious snack that many of us enjoy nibbling on. But does this apply to our canine buddies too? Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds, or are they toxic to dogs?
Can dogs eat pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds might not seem like an obvious treat for dogs, but if prepared correctly, they can be a delicious snack that many dogs enjoy!
However, there are some risks when feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs, and they are also difficult for dogs to digest. A few pumpkin seeds can be fed as an occasional treat, but they should not be a regular food source for your dog.
What are the health benefits of pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds are packed full of health benefits for humans, but the same cannot be said for dogs. This is because seeds are notoriously difficult for dogs to digest, especially when eaten whole.
Some veterinarians may recommend feeding roast pumpkin seeds to dogs, but only after they have been ground into a powder. Pumpkin seeds in this form may be easier for your dog to digest, but it is unclear if they provide the full range of health benefits seen in humans.
But, if you want to go to the trouble of roasting and grinding pumpkin seeds, they may well be able to metabolize some of the incredible nutrients in these little seeds.
What should I be aware of when offering pumpkin seeds to my dog?
It is important to only feed pumpkin seeds to your dog that have been prepared correctly. Roast them first, then remove the tough outer shell. It is possible to buy pumpkin seeds that have been prepared in this way, or you can make them yourself at home.
Dogs can eat whole pumpkin seeds that have been prepared in this way, but they may gain more nutritional benefits if you grind the roast pumpkin seed into a powder. You can then mix this in with your dog’s main meal.
As with all doggy snacks, pumpkin seeds should only be fed to your dog in moderation. Large quantities of pumpkin seeds can cause digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Stick to around three pumpkin seeds for a small dog and no more than ten for a large dog.
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