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The quick answer: Yes, pumpkin seeds are safe for dogs to eat – just make sure the seeds are washed, peeled, and roasted first.
Not only are pumpkin seeds packed with nutrients and antioxidants, they are also known for their benefits to bladder health and the prevention of certain cancers. This isn’t just true for humans – dogs benefit from snacking on them as well.
Benefits of pumpkin seeds
These nutritious little seeds are filled with vitamin K, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, and zinc. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of fiber and provide relief for canine insomniacs. Overweight animals can maintain a healthier weight with the assistance of pumpkin seeds, but as a general rule, seeds should be enjoyed in moderation and not exclusively. While the benefits are plentiful, they can’t replace a balanced, appropriate diet monitored by a veterinarian.
Hazards of sharing pumpkin seeds with dogs
As long as seeds aren’t the only thing your dog digests on a daily basis, they’re good to go. Should your pet suffer from an illness or condition, consult with your veterinarian before introducing pumpkin seeds.
Stick to plain pumpkin seeds without any added spices or flavors. Avoid adding salt to pumpkin seeds – this could make your dog sick. While small amounts may do little harm, consuming too many pumpkin seeds could cause a dog to experience diarrhea, vomiting, excessive thirst, seizures, or worse.
Dog-friendly pumpkin seed recipe
Add whole or ground pumpkin seeds to your dog’s life using the recipe below.
Roasted pumpkin seeds recipe from PawCulture
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Large baking tray
- Coffee bean or spice grinder (when applicable)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F.
- Clean the seeds, rinse them, and gently pat them dry using a towel or paper towel.
- On a large baking tray, spread the seeds out at an equal distance.
- Place the tray in the oven and roast the seeds for 10-15 minutes.
- Let the seeds cool before serving. If you want to grind the seeds and sprinkle them on your dog’s food, grind them using a coffee bean or spice grinder. Use an air-tight container for storage.
