A great way to firm your dog’s stools is by using pumpkin. If you’ve ever had a dog, you’ve probably had to deal with their upset stomach at some point in their life. Gastrointestinal (GI) upset in dogs shows up primarily as diarrhea. Fortunately, if your dog’s stool isn’t as firm as it should be, adding some canned pumpkin to their diet can help.
Canned pumpkin for doggie weight loss
A sound digestive system is crucial and can aid in weight loss. The canned pumpkin itself does not, however, result in weight loss. Small quantities are not likely to significantly contribute to weight gain because it has a relatively low calorie count.
If you pay attention to the calorie content of the other ingredients in your recipe, using canned pumpkin by itself or in a treat recipe can be a great way to make homemade low-calorie treats. This is a healthy substitute for store-bought treats, which are frequently very calorie-dense and can lead to weight gain over time.
Additionally, dogs on a diet might appreciate having some canned pumpkin added to their regular food. The high fiber content keeps them satisfied and supports digestive health.
You can find out your dog’s body condition score (BCS) using my simple three-step method if you’re unsure whether it needs to lose weight. Additionally, you can speak with your vet about your dog’s weight, and you should. The advice in these two articles may be helpful if your dog does need to lose weight:
Health Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Pumpkin
Best Peanut Butter Treats With Pumpkin
The amount of canned pumpkin needed to provide benefit will vary from dog to dog, so consult your veterinarian for advice on how much to feed. For instance, a Chihuahua might only need a teaspoon of food at each meal, but a Great Dane might need a half cup. As with any dietary supplement, it’s best to begin with a small dose and increase it gradually to the recommended level. Some animals don’t like the strange-tasting orange substance in their food bowls, which is another reason to start with a smaller amount that can be more easily covered up. It’s possible that you won’t finish a can of pumpkin before it spoils if you only give your dog a small amount each day. Consider placing the pumpkin in ice cube trays and freezing. Blocks can then be thawed as needed. Questions for your veterinarian.
Your veterinarian is your best resource for ensuring the health and wellbeing of your pets, so you should always visit or contact them if you have any questions or concerns. Related symptoms:
Jack-o-lanterns, Halloween decorations, Thanksgiving, and pumpkin pie, this is certainly the pumpkin season. But, do you know that pumpkins can be important year-round for some pets? Canned pumpkin is a commonly prescribed dietary additive for some gastrointestinal maladies. From diarrhea to constipation, pumpkin can be a dog’s (or cat’s) best friend.
What is canned pumpkin? Canned pumpkin that’s recommended by veterinarians is nothing more than pumpkin that has been pureed. It is a source of fiber that is low in fat and cholesterol. When purchasing canned pumpkin at the grocery store it is important to read the label carefully. Pie-filling canned pumpkin has added ingredients such as sugar, fat, and various seasonings. It is the pure pumpkin product that veterinarians recommend. [Editor’s Note: Not everything pumpkin flavored is safe for dogs. Make sure you are only using product recommended by your veterinarian.] How can pumpkin help dogs? Canned pumpkin can provide a number of health benefits based primarily on its fiber content. Be forewarned that canned pumpkin is mostly water, to the tune of approximately 90%. This means that the content of fiber is not nearly as much as is found in Metamucil®. Pumpkin isn’t a be-all and end-all remedy for cats and dogs with gastrointestinal issues, but it is a reasonably harmless thing to try. If this has you thinking, “Hmm, maybe I’ll give canned pumpkin a try,” I urge you to consult with your veterinarian before doing so. In some cases, added fiber could cause more harm than good. All this being said, your veterinarian might suggest canned pumpkin be used in the following ways for some dogs:
FAQ
How fast does pumpkin work for dog diarrhea?
This is so that the pumpkin serving that has been added to the dog’s food can be broken down by their stomach acids. Your dog’s next poop may indicate improvement for a mild case of diarrhea in 4 to 6 hours. However, it is more reasonable to anticipate a full recovery within 24 to 48 hours.
Does pumpkin harden stool for dogs?
The soluble fiber in canned pumpkin will aid in absorbing any excess water in your dog’s diarrhea, resulting in firmer stools. The pumpkin’s high water and fiber content will help add bulk and soften the stools for pets who are constipated, acting as a natural laxative and facilitating easier passage.
Can too much pumpkin give your dog diarrhea?
Their stools become more voluminous thanks to the fiber, making them easier to pass. But remember—moderation is key. Too much pumpkin can cause diarrhea. The moment your dog experiences severe constipation, call your veterinarian.
Is pumpkin or rice better for dogs with diarrhea?
Karen Becker. For the base of a bland diet, I advise giving pumpkin instead of rice to pets who are experiencing diarrhea. (Thanks for inspiring this article, Ashley!).