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 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.
Did you know? California is one of the top pumpkin-producing states. Pumpkins are 90 percent water. For more interesting facts about pumpkin, read our post; 15 Pumpkin Fun Facts | 8 Pumpkin Dog Treats (FUN memories with our Angel SUGAR)
Giving your dog pumpkin provides nourishments to keep your dog healthy and happy. Why? A pumpkin is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and low calorie. 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 pumpkin dog treats or as a supplements. I prefer giving my dog, KORU BEAR, 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.
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 affect both the color and texture of canned and homemade pumpkin puree.
3. Taste
Our 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, 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 also readily available in any season.
5. Cost
Picking your own pumpkin is fun to do. The cost of a pumpkin depends on the size and where you buy. Our small pumpkin from the pumpkin farm cost $4.50. A canned 100% pumpkin puree can cost about $2.50 (and higher).
When selecting pumpkin puree for your dogs, make sure it is made with 100% pumpkin. There are pet brands that created pumpkin puree for pets. The cost varies and it is much higher than a regular canned pumpkin puree. I’ve used 1) Nummy Tum Tum Pure Pumpkin for Pets and 2) Weruva Puréed Pumpkin. These pumpkin puree are very convenient to have and can ease your dog’s digestion. Both are available on your local pet stores, Chewy and Amazon. Although pumpkin puree is a good supplement to your dog’s diet, too much isn’t a good thing. Always consult your veterinarian.
Verdict: Canned and Homemade Dog Pumpkin Puree
Dog tester, KORU BEAR prefers both: canned and homemade pumpkin puree. Do you give your dog pumpkin puree?
Love making pumpkin recipes during Fall. The canned pumpkin is very convenient especially when Jack’s tummy is not doing well. Love the video and the PAW popsicle. You are so lucky.
Pumpkin ha been a lifesaver for me when it comes to my dogs having stomach issues. I keep it in my pantry at all times. I never really understood the difference in puree…thank you for sharing these details to help us furry owners make our best decisions.
Your dog is adorable! Also, I do love to dive my pup a pumpkin as a frozen cube, he likes to play with it!
Thank you for sharing. I have used pumpkin for my pets when tummy issues arise but have never incorporated it into their diet on a regular basis. I can, however, see how it could be very beneficial and I plan to try it right away as both my cats and dogs tend to have tummy issues from time to time. Maybe this can be a great supplement that helps them maintain healthy digestive systems.