Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie? Is It Safe For Dogs?

If you’re like most dog parents, you probably wonder if it’s OK to share a slice with your furry friend. After all, pumpkin is healthy for dogs, right?

Yes, dogs can eat pumpkin pie, but just a forkful at a time. However, there are a few things you should be aware of. First, the crust is generally made with unhealthy oils and fats that can be difficult for your dog to digest. In addition, many pies are sweetened with sugar or honey, possibly leading to stomach upset in some dogs.

So if you want to give your pup a taste of pumpkin pie, it’s best to feed them just a little bit. A fork full of filling should be plenty.

As mentioned above, pumpkin has some health benefits, so let’s take a look.

Health Benefits Of Pumpkin

Pumpkin contains several vitamins and minerals that can impact your dog’s health in healthy ways.

Vitamin A

Pumpkin is high in vitamin A, which is essential for your dog. Vitamin A is essential for preserving good vision and boosting the immune system.

However, keep in mind that dogs need far less vitamin A than humans. So while a small amount of pumpkin is fine, too much can be toxic. So if your dog begs for a slice of pumpkin pie this holiday season, go ahead and give them a little treat. Just be sure to moderation.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for dogs because it helps to boost the immune system. It also guards against free radicals and cells that might cause sickness.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is extremely useful to dogs since it aids in the maintenance of a healthy coat and skin. In addition, a pumpkin can help to relieve an upset stomach and keep a dog regular with their bowel movements.

Potassium

Pumpkin is an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral for dogs. Potassium can assist keep blood pressure in check and support the heart, kidneys, and muscular activities.

Beta Carotene

Beta carotene is converted into Vitamin A in the body, and Vitamin A is essential for good vision, healthy skin and coat, and a strong immune system.

Dietary Fiber

Just like humans, dogs need fiber to help with their digestion. Fiber also keeps them feel full and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Pumpkin is abundant in soluble fiber, making it an excellent source of fiber. Because this fiber dissolves in water, it is easily absorbed by the body.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are dietary fibers that are non-digestible and fuel the gut’s probiotics (good bacteria). They essentially help promote a healthy digestive system. And what’s good for humans is often good for dogs too!

Pumpkin is an excellent source of prebiotics, and adding it to your dog’s diet can help to keep their gut healthy. A healthy gut means better health and can help prevent bad breath and gas.

What Happens When Pumpkin Becomes Pumpkin Pie?

If you’re like most dog owners, you love to give your dog a little something special during the holidays. And what could be more festive than a slice of pumpkin pie? After all, pumpkins are packed with nutrients that are good for dogs, right? Well, it turns out that pumpkin pie ingredients might not be as healthy for dogs as we thought.

Pumpkin Pie Ingredients:

Pie Crust

While we love nothing more than indulging in a slice of pie (or two), the question of whether or not pie crust is good for dogs is a little more complicated. While the butter or oils in the crust can be unhealthy for dogs in large quantities, a small piece of crust is not likely to cause any problems.

In fact, many dog owners report that their pet loves stealing a bite of pie crust from time to time! So, while it’s best to avoid letting your dog overeat pie crust, there’s no need to worry if they sneak a taste every once in a while.

Pumpkin Filling

Plain pumpkin filling in pumpkin pie is relatively healthy for dogs. As we mentioned before, pumpkin is packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and dietary fiber.

However, the problem with some pumpkin pie filling is that it often contains sugar and other sweeteners. So just make sure the filling is plain pumpkin filling.

Raw Pumpkin

Steaming or roasting raw pumpkin is a safe and healthy way to give your dog the benefits of pumpkin, and it’s also great for making homemade pumpkin pies. Just be sure to remove the seeds and guts before steaming or roasting, as these can cause digestive issues for your dog.

Canned Pumpkin

Organic canned pumpkin is often touted as a healthy food for dogs, and for a good reason. Pumpkin is a wonderful fiber source that aids in the digestion of your dog. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it an excellent alternative for overweight dogs.

However, not all canned pumpkin is created equal or organic. Some brands add sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.

So, if you’re planning on adding canned pumpkin to your dog’s diet, check the label and choose a brand that doesn’t contain xylitol or other harmful ingredients.

Whipped Cream

Most whipped cream is made with heavy cream, sugar, and other ingredients that are not particularly good for dogs. In fact, too much whipped cream can lead to pancreatitis in dogs.

Pancreatitis is a severe medical condition that can result in vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and even death. So you should avoid feeding your pup whipped cream this holiday season.

Salt

While pumpkin is generally considered a healthy dog food, one important caveat is salt. Salt in large amounts is bad for dogs, and canned pumpkin can be somewhat high in sodium. Pumpkin pie mix is way worse, though, as it often contains added sugar and other unhealthy ingredients.

For the healthiest option, look for a canned pumpkin that is unsweetened and sodium-free. You can also make your own pumpkin puree with fresh pumpkins.

Dairy Homemade

Can dogs fall ill from the dairy in a pumpkin pie? The answer may shock you – yes, they can! Dairy products can cause upset stomach and diarrhea in dogs, and while a small amount of pumpkin pie filling is not likely to cause serious illness, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving your dog any at all.

If you accidentally let your dog have a lick of the pie or a bite of the crust, don’t worry – just keep an eye on them for any signs of digestive upset and call your vet if you have any concerns.

Sugars And Sweeteners

As we mentioned before, the pumpkin filling in some pies contains sugar and other sweeteners. Xylitol is sugar alcohol often used as a substitute for sugar in human food. Unfortunately, it’s also found in some pie filling brands, so checking the label before giving your dog a spoonful of the tasty stuff is essential.

While it is harmless for humans, xylitol is poisonous to dogs and can cause serious health problems. In dogs, even tiny doses of xylitol can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), while excessive amounts can cause liver failure. Xylitol poisoning symptoms include vomiting, seizures, and weakness.

If you suspect your dog has consumed xylitol, contact your veterinarian or the Animal Poison Control Center right away.

Eggs

The eggs in pumpkin pies are cooked, which makes them safe for dogs to consume.

Spices

Pumpkin spice typically includes:

• Ginger: In small amounts, ginger can be a helpful digestive aid for dogs.
• Nutmeg: can be toxic in even small doses, so it’s best to avoid giving your dog any pumpkin pie that contains this spice.
• Cloves: like nutmeg, cloves can be poisonous to dogs in large quantities. So it’s best to avoid any pies containing this spice when giving your pup a spoonful.
• Allspice: Allspice is OK for dogs in small quantities.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a popular seasoning for pumpkin pies, and while it’s safe for dogs in small doses, too much can be harmful.

Bottom Line

Pumpkin pie can be a healthy dog treat, as long as it’s given in moderation and without adding sugar or sweeteners. However, pie crust and whipped cream are not particularly good for dogs and should be avoided.

Salt and spices can also cause digestive upset, so giving your dog a plain slice of pumpkin pie without any toppings is best.

If you have any concerns, talk to your dog’s vet before giving your pup any new foods.