Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Benefits of Pumpkin for Dogs

Did You Know

Some raw feeders believe dogs don’t need vegetables and can exist on meat alone, but there are many good reasons to include fresh fruits and veggies in your dog’s meals. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and sources of dietary fiber for your dog. Consider making them a part of your dog’s daily diet.

The following are very beneficial, easy to add fruits and vegetables: Asparagus, Broccoli And Broccoli Sprouts, Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower, Carrots, Mushrooms, Celery, Leafy Greens, Garlic, Green Beans, Bell Peppers and Pumpkin.

Visit https://blog.fourleafrover.com/ for more information about these healthy additions to your dog’s diet. And because it’s pumpkin spice season: continue reading below to learn the benefits of feeding your dog pumpkin.

Pumpkin has many health benefits for your dog, including high fiber content that supports their digestive system. It is packed with nutrients that are good for them and most dogs love the taste of pumpkin so it’s easy to feed.

Here are some properties of pumpkin that support your dog’s health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Pumpkin is packed with nutrients your dog needs. It’s a great source of Vitamins A, E, and C, which are important for the immune system, brain function, eyes, and skin health.

Pumpkin also contains important minerals like potassium, copper, manganese, and iron that each play a role in cellular functions. This is a great reason to add pumpkin as a part of your dog’s regular diet.

Eye Health

Like other orange vegetables, pumpkin contains a lot of beta-carotene, which is a precursor for vitamin A. Once it converts to vitamin A in the body, it helps improve vision as well as boosting overall immunity and skin and coat health. The carotenoid zeaxanthin also protects your dog’s eyes from light damage.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect your dog from dangerous free radicals in the body. Free radicals are damaged cells that steal molecules from other cells. They’re a natural by-product of metabolism and exposure to toxins in the environment. If free radicals are uncontrolled, they can harm your dog’s cells and even their DNA. Antioxidants in pumpkin include plant pigments, called carotenoids: Beta-carotene, Zeaxanthin and Beta-cryptoxanthin. Carotenoids help lower cancer risk and degenerative disease. Studies show that they may also be good for bone health. Like beta carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin also forms vitamin A. Zeaxanthin contributes to slowing down the aging process, improving heart health, increasing glutathione levels, and reducing inflammation of the skin.

AntiParasitic

Pumpkin seeds are a natural and effective way to remove parasites like worms from your dog’s digestive tract. The seeds contain the amino acid cucurbitin, which paralyzes worms. Studies in both rats and puppies have shown the ability of pumpkin seeds to get rid of intestinal worms.

Fiber

Pumpkin is a good source of fiber, which is great for your dog’s digestive health. The soluble fiber content in pumpkin absorbs water, which can help to solidify runny stool when your dog has diarrhea. The fiber can also help with the opposite problem, by loosening up the packed stool in the case of constipation. The fiber in pumpkin can also help your dog feel full for longer and can also help prevent anal gland problems.