Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? Are Pumpkin Seeds Safe for Dogs?

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? (Photo credit: Ирина Мещерякова/Getty Images)

Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Seeds? You may be wondering this because now that Halloween is over, you are now ready to roast those seeds if you haven’t already! Humans can eat pumpkin seeds, of course, but we always want to check before sharing our snacks with our furry family members.

There are many human foods that are safe for dogs, but are pumpkin seeds on that list? The short answer is yes! They are indeed okay for our dogs to eat.

As usual, you should ask your vet before introducing any new human foods to your dog, including pumpkin seeds or squash. Here’s what you need to know about feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs.

How are pumpkin seeds good for dogs?

Pumpkin in general is safe for your dog to eat. In fact, there are several health benefits to add: pumpkin and pumpkin seeds for our dog food!

pumpkin seeds contain the amino acids that help paralyze and eliminate parasites from your dog’s digestive tract. They provide “good fat” in your dog’s diet, which in turn can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Pumpkin itself also helps maintain a healthy gut. It’s a great home remedy if your pup ever is constipated or has an upset stomach. Because it is high in antioxidants and vitamins, it can also help slow down the aging process and diminished vision, as well as fight inflammation.

How can I safely give pumpkin seeds to my dog?

(Photo credit: Kosamtu/Getty Images)

to share safely your fall snack with your furry friend, there are a few things you should know before introducing them to the deliciousness.

First you need to remove the seeds from the husks, wipe off the pulp and let them dry overnight.

To toast, place on a flat baking sheet, bake for about 20 minutes at about 160 to 170F. It is important not to let them in any longer.

Seeds can be fed whole or ground and added to meals. You can give your dog a quarter teaspoon per ten pounds of body weight per day. Again, check with your vet to make sure this is the right amount for your dog!

Never season your pumpkin seeds if you plan to share them with your dog; extra salt or spices can be bad for your pup.

Pumpkin seeds can be given as a treat or ground up and added to your dog’s food; be sure to check how much they can have before introducing this nutrient-rich snack into your dog’s diet!

Has your dog ever eaten pumpkin seeds? Did they enjoy sharing a fall snack with you? Let us know in the comments below!