5 Differences: Canned or Homemade Dog Pumpkin Puree

As a remedy and maintenance, I incorporate pumpkin puree into my dog’s diet. For the past years, I’ve used both canned and homemade dog pumpkin puree. Which one is better? With the help of dog tester KORU BEAR, we did a comparison test and discovered five differences in color, texture, taste, preparation, and cost.

Pumpkin and Dogs

Fall season means pumpkin time. One of our favorite Fall adventures is to visit a dog friendly pumpkin patch and pick some pumpkins.

Did you know? California is one of the top pumpkin-producing states. Pumpkins are 90 percent water. For more interesting facts about pumpkins, read our post; 15 Pumpkin Fun Facts | 8 Pumpkin Dog Treats (FUN memories with our Angel SUGAR)

Giving your dog pumpkin provides nourishment to keep your dog healthy and happy. Why? A pumpkin is packed with essential vitamins, and minerals, and low in calories. Pumpkin is a healthy source of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. Pumpkin can provide health benefits for your dog’s digestion, eye, skin, and coat.

There are many ways you can incorporate pumpkin into your dog’s diet like making homemade pumpkin dog treats or as a supplement. I prefer giving my dog canned pumpkin puree. However, during the Fall months, I love making homemade pumpkin puree.

Which One is Better?
Canned or Homemade Dog Pumpkin Puree

1. Color
Our homemade dog pumpkin puree is much lighter in color than the canned pumpkin puree. Also, there’s a color difference between regular and organic canned pumpkin; the regular is darker.

2.Texture
The canned pumpkin puree is not as thick as my homemade pumpkin puree. Why? I learned that most commercial pumpkin is made from steamed pureed pumpkin.

Also, the variety of pumpkins affects both the color and texture of canned and homemade pumpkin puree.

3. Taste
Our golden retriever dog tester, KORU BEAR, surprisingly likes both the canned and homemade pumpkin puree.

4.Preparation
It takes time to make a homemade dog pumpkin puree. Depending on the size of the pumpkin, baking time can take about 45-60 minutes plus requires kitchen tools and cleaning. For these preparations, many prefer to buy canned pumpkin puree. One main reason is that it is more convenient. Also, canned pumpkin puree is readily available in any season.

5. Cost
Picking your own pumpkin is a fun Fall activity to do with your dog, especially since many pumpkin patches allow dogs.

The cost of a pumpkin depends on the size and where you buy it. Our small pumpkin from the pumpkin farm cost $4.50. A canned 100% pumpkin puree can cost about $2.50 (and higher). During Fall (holiday) months, a can of pumpkin can be cheaper.

Dog tester, KORU BEAR prefers both: canned and homemade pumpkin puree.

Dog Owners Buyer’s Guide – Choosing The Best Pumpkin For Dogs

Is Canned Pumpkin Good For Your Dog?

Canned pumpkin is a great source of fiber, which can aid regulate your dog’s digestion plus helps add bulk and soften a constipated dog’s stool. It’s also low in calories and fat, making it a good option for dogs who are overweight or have diabetes. Pumpkin is a good source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant that can boost your dog’s immune system. In a previous post, I shared 10 Benefits of Pumpkin for Your Dog.

What Kind of Canned Pumpkin Can You Give To Your Dog?

Pumpkin By Pet Brand VS Local Grocery Store

When selecting pumpkin puree for your dogs, make sure it is made with 100% plain pumpkin. There are pet brands that created pumpkin puree, broth, and powder with added supplements for pets. The cost varies and it is much higher than a regular canned pumpkin puree from the grocery store.

Choosing The Best Canned Pumpkin For Dogs

Pumpkin purees are convenient to have and ease your dog’s digestion. There are a few things to consider when choosing the best-canned pumpkin for dogs. First, you’ll want to make sure that the pumpkin is pureed and doesn’t contain any chunks or pieces. Secondly, you’ll want to check the ingredient list to make sure that the pumpkin is the only ingredient. Some brands of canned pumpkin add sweeteners or other spices, which can be harmful to dogs. Finally, you’ll want to consider the size of the can. Smaller cans are more convenient for small dogs, while larger cans may be more economical for larger dogs.

These pumpkin products are available at your local grocery stores/pet stores and on Amazon.

1. Kroger 100% Pure Pumpkin

2. Simple Truth Organic 100% Pumpkin

3. O Organics 100% Pure Pumpkin

4. 365 Whole Foods Market Pumpkin Puree

5. Trader’s Joe 100% Pure Pumpkin

6. Nummy Tum Tum Pure Pumpkin – canned pumpkin puree for both dogs and cats

7. Weruva Pumpkin patch Up! – 100% pure and USDA organic pumpkin; sourced from local farms (both for dogs and cats)

8. Nature’s Logic Pumpkin – 100 % all-natural pumpkin for dogs and cats

9. CARU Daily Dish Pumpkin Broth – made with human-grade ingredients like real pumpkin, apple, arrowroot, and kale

10. Native Pet Organic Pumpkin – powder dog supplement and dog’s diarrhea relief; pawfect alternative to canned pumpkin

Amazing Health Benefits of Pumpkin For Dogs

Pumpkin provides many health benefits for dogs. Pumpkin is high in fiber, low in calories, and packed with vitamins A, C, and E. It is a natural remedy that can be used to treat digestive problems; dog diarrhea and constipation. The high levels of beta carotene are a natural antioxidant that can help improve eye health and strengthen a dog’s immune system. This can lead to a healthier heart and stronger bones. Pumpkin also has a high water content which makes it an ideal food for dogs who are prone to urinary tract infections or bladder stones. Adding pumpkin puree to your dog’s diet may also help keep them hydrated. Read more on our previous post: 10 Heath Benefits of Pumpkin For Dogs

Variety of Ways to Add Pumpkin Puree To Your Dog’s Diet

There are many ways to add pumpkin puree to your dog’s diet for good health.

One way to make your dog’s diet more nutritious is by adding pumpkin puree. You can add pumpkin puree as a topping on their regular dog food; mix it with their dry food or wet dog food. You can also use it as a reward when training your dog or simply just give small amounts of pumpkin puree for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals.

My favorite way is to make pumpkin tasty dog treats. Here are 5 recipes for homemade pumpkin treats you can make for your dog:
1. Make Your Own Dog Safe Pumpkin Puree
2. Apple Pumpkin Banana Bones
3. No Bake Pumpkin Apple Balls
4. Frosty Pumpkin and Layered Pumpkin Frosty Bones
5. Mini Dog Pumpkin Pie

Dog Pumpkin FAQs

How much pumpkin can I give my dog?

Depending on your dog’s weight, you can feed your dog pumpkin 1-5 tablespoons of pumpkin a day. For large dogs like my golden retrievers and 50+ lbs, You can give them up to 5 tablespoons of pumpkin puree in a day.

How to store leftover pumpkin puree?

It is best to store the puree in a sealed container with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the fridge. You can also freeze unused pumpkin puree in ice cube trays or silicone ice cube trays.

Can you feed your dog raw pumpkin?

Pumpkin is a nutritious vegetable that can be fed to dogs. However, it needs to be cooked first before feeding it to them.
It is not recommended that you feed your dog raw or fresh pumpkin. Dogs are unable to digest raw pumpkins properly which could give them an upset stomach or a case of diarrhea.

Can you feed your dog pumpkin pie mix?

Pumpkin pie mix contains sugar, spices, and other ingredients which are not good and safe for your dog. Instead, it is a good idea to make your own healthy treat dog pumpkin pie filling and crust.

Can you feed your dog pumpkin pie?

Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that many people enjoy during the holidays. Some people even have it year-round. It can be made with either pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin and is often sweetened with sugar or artificial sweeteners, plus other spices that can be harmful to your dog’s stomach. Read more on our post: Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie? I shared detailed information about why pumpkin pie is bad for your dog and some alternatives to pumpkin pie such as homemade pumpkin dog treats and pumpkin dog toys.

Do You Give Your Dog Pumpkin Puree?

Keep in mind that pumpkin puree is a good supplement to your dog’s diet, but too much isn’t a good thing. Always consult your veterinarian if you are unsure and any concerns you may have regarding giving your dog pumpkin puree.