Pumpkins are nature’s treat for dogs, no tricks, just goodness.

Pumpkins are an ancient symbol of Halloween! But this vibrant orange squash is also nutritional powerhouse, it’s a seasonal superfood that can help support your dog’s digestion, boost immunity, whilst keeping their skin and coats healthy and hydrated.

The modern Halloween pumpkin or Jack-o’-lantern, which stems from an old Irish legend about Stingy Jack, whose carved turnip lantern evolved into the glowing pumpkin we know today. Beyond their spooky glow, pumpkins represent abundance and the comforting nourishment of autumn fitting, then, that they offer so much goodness for our dogs too.

Pumpkins are naturally rich in vitamins A, C, and E, all of which support your dog’s immune system and skin health. Vitamin A promotes good vision and healthy skin, while vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant to reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage. The minerals potassium and iron help maintain muscle function and overall vitality, especially important as temperatures drop and activity levels may change.

Their high-water content (around 90%) also makes pumpkin an excellent natural hydrator, which is great for dogs that aren’t big drinkers, or fed on a kibble diet, particularly in winter when centrally heated environments promote dehydration.

Over the years I’ve turned to plain pumpkin purée to help with tummy upsets easing both constipation and diarrhoea. This balancing effect comes from its soluble fibre, which absorbs excess water in the intestines and slows digestion when needed.

Pumpkin fibre also acts as a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the beneficial bacteria living in your dog’s elusive gut microbiome. A healthy microbiome is key to strong immunity, good digestion, and even emotional balance. Just as we know gut health influences mood in humans, studies suggest dogs’ benefit in the same way.

By adding a little pumpkin to their meals, you’re providing a natural, gut-friendly boost that helps keep defences strong. The combination of antioxidants, prebiotic fibre, and vitamins can help the body fight off infection and maintain optimal well-being through the darker months.

Always use plain, cooked pumpkin or unsweetened pumpkin purée.  Never use pumpkin pie filling, which can contain sugar and spices that are toxic to dogs.

These days with many de-hydrated Pumpkin powder products available, so we can benefit from the goodness of pumpkins all year long! I like to make up a batch and freeze in ice-cube trays. So, it’s not only easy to portion as a topper on your dog’s meals, but as a cooling Pumpkin sorbet in summer months too!

In terms of quantities:  a teaspoon or two for small dogs (under 10 Kgs) and up to a tablespoon or two for larger breeds. Simply adding to their regular meals a couple of times a week is plenty to reap the benefits.

Maintaining your dog’s natural health through winter doesn’t need to be complicated. Of course, I recommend a fresh, whole food diet, containing plenty of meat, but adding a small amount of pureed pumpkin is a seasonal ally for your dog’s health.