A Freshly Cut Open Pumpkin and Seeds

Natural Pumpkin and the Diabetic Dog: 7 Healthy Benefits

Incorporating natural, low-calorie pumpkin into your diabetic dog's diet (in moderation!) can offer many health benefits, as discussed below. (Source: Homes Alive Pets) But always consult with your veterinarian before adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet. 

 

 NOTE: Never feed your dog pumpkin pie filling!

 

Pumpkin: 7 Health Benefits for Diabetic Dogs

1. Nutrient-Rich Deliciousness

Pumpkin provides vital nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and iron, which support overall health and immune function.

 

2. Promotes Healthy Tummies

Pumpkin is rich in dietary fiber (both soluble and insoluble), which aids in regulating blood sugar levels by slowing digestion.

Soluble Fiber dissolves in water.

Insoluble Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that your dog’s body doesn't fully digest, but it adds important bulk and promotes regular bowel movements.

A healthy digestive system is vital for nutrient absorption (Source: Balanced Diets Allow Your Dog to THRIVE!) and helps prevent rapid spikes in blood glucose, making it beneficial for diabetic dogs. (Source: PetMd)

Dietary fiber also naturally addresses your dog’s diarrhea and constipation:

~ Small amounts of pumpkin help address diarrhea.
~ Larger amounts of pumpkin help resolve constipation.

 

This is why feeding pumpkin in moderation is SO important! 

 

3. Easy on the Sugar, Big on the Love!

With its low glycemic index, pumpkin releases glucose into the bloodstream slower, helping maintain stable blood sugar levels. So, pumpkin is a better choice than other sweeteners or starchy foods. 

Nutritional Breakdown of Cooked Pumpkin

The Nutritional Breakdown of Cooked Pumpkin (Courtesy: Homes Alive Pets)


    4. Stay Fit, Stay Happy!

    The high fiber content in pumpkin promotes a feeling of fullness and helps reduce those irresistible, begging puppy eyes! Also, low calories help manage weight, a crucial aspect of diabetes management, by improving insulin sensitivity. 

     

    5. Strong, Bright and Healthy! Immune, Eye and Urinary Support for Dogs

    • Vitamin A: Slows the progression of eye degeneration and promotes overall eye health. 
    • Antioxidants (Vitamins C and E): Boosts your pup’s immune system and protects against K9 illnesses.
    • Potassium: Helps regulate the pH in your dog’s urine, preventing painful kidney or bladder stones.

     

    6. Shiny Coats and Happy Tails!

    • Zinc and Moisture: Helps promote a healthy and moisturized coat and skin (from pumpkin and pumpkin seeds!).

     

    7. Naturally Defended: Parasite Prevention

    Organic, lightly-roasted or dried raw pumpkin seeds or pumpkin seed extract (with the deworming amino acid “cucurbitacin”) can help prevent parasites from taking hold in your dog’s intestines and digestive system (by paralyzing and expelling the worms and eggs), protecting a dog’s overall health and well-being. (Source: Animal Wellness) Traditional Chinese Medicine also praises pumpkin seeds for expelling parasites!

    Close-up of raw pumpkin seeds

    Raw Pumpkin Seeds

     

    Yummy for the Tummy: Using Pumpkin in Your Dog's Diet

    • Helpful Serving Suggestions:  Introduce plain, canned (or homecooked) pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling) into your dog's diet. Start with small amounts, such as 1 to 4 tablespoons per meal, depending on your dog's size and dietary needs; monitor your dog's response and adjust accordingly. 
    • Yummy Taste! Since most dogs love the taste, pumpkin appeals to pick or sick dogs! 
    • Homemade Treats and Goodies: Make homemade dog treats using pure pumpkin puree. This allows you to control the ingredients and ensure no added sugars or harmful additives. (Or you can buy our baked Pumpkin Bites (coming soon) here!
      Pumpkin Dog Treats from Marcy's Pet Kitchen

      Marcy's Pet Kitchen Pumpkin Dog Treats

       

      • Avoid the Yuck! Ensure that any pumpkin product you provide is FREE from added sugars, spices, or artificial additives/preservatives, which are unsuitable for any dog, especially those with diabetes. Never feed pumpkin pie filling!
      • Consult Your Veterinarian. Before adding pumpkin to your dog's diet, consult your veterinarian to ensure it is appropriate for your dog's health and nutritional requirements. 

       

      Did You Miss Our Previous Blog about Beneficial
       Blackstrap Molasses?

       

      The Last Bark

      Natural, pure pumpkin is a tasty, belly-friendly boost for diabetic dogs and those with sensitive tummies! It helps with:

      ✔️ Steady Blood Sugar 📉
      ✔️ Healthy Weight Management ⚖️
      ✔️ Smooth Digestion 🍽️

       

      A little pumpkin love goes a long way for a happy, healthy pup!

      Always introduce new foods gradually, in moderation, monitor your pet for allergic reactions, and report any issues to your vet for your dog’s overall health and well-being!

      Be sure always to Reward Naturally®!

       

      ________________________________________
      Marcy and Barkley of Marcy's Pet Kitchen
      Marcy and Barkley of Marcy's Pet Kitchen


      Marcy Lambert-Pellegrino, founder of Marcy’s Pet Kitchen® (MPK), creates all-natural, superfood dog treats designed to promote health and happiness for dogs with various allergies, food sensitivities, and even diabetes. She was one of the pioneers in incorporating dandelion root for its natural prebiotic and probiotic properties.

      MPK has earned national recognition through media features, including Pets Plus Magazine and high-profile animal advocacy events for their love of dogs!

      Committed to providing truly healthy superfood treats, Marcy continues to inspire and earn the trust of pet owners across the nation.
      ________________________________________

       

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