Pumpkin Seeds for Pups: A Nutritious Boost for Your Furry Friend

Do you like pumpkin seeds? Your Pawsome mate might, too. When ground and given in moderation, they are a great food topper. Here's why.

Benefits

Rich in Nutrients

Pumpkin seeds are packed with important minerals, including magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium. These minerals support immune system health and bone development and are vital for overall well-being, particularly in maintaining healthy bones and preventing deficiencies.

Antioxidants:

Pumpkin seeds are antioxidant-rich and contain vitamin E, carotenoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, benefiting older dogs and those with chronic conditions such as arthritis.

Digestive Health:

The high fibre content of pumpkin seeds can aid digestion, help regulate bowel movements and relieve symptoms of both diarrhoea and constipation. The healthy fats also contribute to smoother digestion and overall gut health.

Deworming Properties:

Cucurbitacin, an amino acid in pumpkin seeds, has natural anti-parasitic properties. It can paralyse intestinal parasites such as tapeworms, making it easier for dogs to expel them naturally through their digestive system.

Urinary Health:

Pumpkin seeds, due to their diuretic properties, can help improve bladder function and may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Studies suggest that the seeds promote healthy urinary tract functioning in humans and pets.

How to Feed Pumpkin Seeds to Dogs:

• Roast, Grind and Make a Paste: Roast and grind the seeds into a powder, which makes them easier for your dog to digest. Add water, coconut oil, or any additional ingredients (such pumpkin puree or bone broth) until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste.
• Plain and Unsalted: Make sure the seeds are plain with no added salt, sugar, or seasoning, as these can be harmful to dogs.
• Portion Control: Offer only small amounts. For a 10kg dog, offer about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ground pumpkin seeds per day. Start with a smaller amount and gradually increase if needed. This helps to avoid any digestive upset. Always monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort and consult your vet if you're introducing new foods into their diet regularly.

Incorporating pumpkin seeds into your dog's diet can greatly support their overall health, especially for digestive or parasite concerns. However, it's important to remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Always consult your vet before making significant changes to your dog's diet.

References

National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/

National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Office of Dietary Supplements. Iron: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/

Khosravi-Boroujeni, H., et al. (2015). "The Relationship Between Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium and Copper with Coronary Artery Disease: A Case-Control Study." Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, 29: 301-305. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtemb.2014.08.001

Kulczyński, B., & Gramza-Michałowska, A. (2019). "The Profile of Carotenoids and Other Bioactive Molecules in Various Pumpkin Species and Their Biological Properties." Molecules, 24(16), 2945. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules24162945

Stevenson, D. G., et al. (2007). "Oil and Tocopherol Content and Composition of Pumpkin Seed Oil in 12 Cultivars." Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 55(10): 4005-4013. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf063292q

Williams, B. A., et al. (2001). "Dietary Fibre and Its Benefits in Dogs and Cats." Nutrition Research Reviews, 14(1), 173-182. https://doi.org/10.1079/NRR200128

National Library of Medicine - MedlinePlus. Dietary Fiber. Available at: https://medlineplus.gov/dietaryfiber.html

Adamski, Z., et al. (2014). "Cucurbitin – A Compound from Cucurbitaceae Plants as a Natural Dewormer for Humans and Animals." Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 155(3): 999-1006. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2014.06.028

Gossell-Williams, M., et al. (2006). "The Diuretic Effect of Pumpkin Seed Oil." Journal of Medicinal Food, 9(2), 284-286. https://doi.org/10.1089/jmf.2006.9.284

Avila, C. D., et al. (2016). "Pumpkin Seed Oil as an Effective Treatment for Overactive Bladder Syndrome." Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 6(3), 267-270. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2015.07.002