5 Benefits of Pumpkin for Your Pup
Do you love the fall because it is pumpkin spice season? Well your pup can enjoy the flavors of fall too! We may wait for autumn to enjoy pumpkin-related treats, but our dogs can enjoy its many great benefits year-round!
Here are 5 reasons why you should add pumpkin to your dog’s diet:
1. Nutrient-Rich Veggie
Pumpkins are full of nutrients. They contain loads of vitamin A, respectable amounts of vitamin C, and good quantities of other enriching minerals like potassium. It is also a low fat and low-calorie option!
2. Aids in Weight Loss
Including an appropriate serving of pumpkin to your dog’s feeding sessions adds both volume and fiber to their diet. This can help them feel full longer while you’re trying to slim them down.
3. Natural Substitute for Medicine
The fiber in pumpkin can serve to both loosen or tighten your dog’s bowels. It knows what it’s doing – and will magically (aka, scientifically) address whichever issue your dog faces!
4. Form of Antioxidant
Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants from the carotenoid family. These carotenoids absorb easily and sit in your dog’s cell membranes to fight oxidation damage. They’re considered some of the better long-acting antioxidants around.
5. Great Taste!
Like most of us, dogs love the rich and creamy flavor of pumpkin. There are a lot of foods that are healthy for our pups – but difficult to get them to eat due to taste or texture. Most dogs willingly lap up even plain cooked pumpkin which allows them to happily enjoy these many benefits.
When feeding your dog pumpkin – make sure it is plain canned pumpkin or plain cooked pumpkin pulp. Always check the ingredients label if you’re not sure. Ask your vet for guidance on appropriate portions. Depending on the size of your dog, and their current health issues, the recommended serving could be one tablespoon once a day, all the way up to 2-4 ounces at each meal.
Also, check out this great recipe for homemade Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Dog Treats! Click here!
(Source: www.petcarerx.com)
