can dogs eat pumpkin seeds

can dogs eat pumpkin seeds

1 hour ago 2
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Dogs can safely eat pumpkin seeds in moderation. Pumpkin seeds are not toxic to dogs and can provide some nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. However, dogs do not digest pumpkin seeds the same way humans do, so the nutritional benefits are not as significant for them. It is important to remove the shells before feeding pumpkin seeds to dogs to reduce choking hazards and digestive issues. Feeding too many pumpkin seeds can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or even pancreatitis due to their high fat content. Pumpkin seeds should be given plain, without seasoning, oils, or salt, and are best roasted or ground into small pieces for easier digestion. The general recommendation is to give pumpkin seeds only as an occasional treat, with the amount depending on the dog's size (about one seed per 10 pounds of body weight). Some believe pumpkin seeds might help with deworming, though this is not scientifically confirmed, and deworming medications from a vet are recommended for parasites. In summary, dogs can eat pumpkin seeds safely if they are prepared properly, served in small amounts, and given as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

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