Why Pumpkin Is a Superfood for Dogs

October 22, 2025

Pumpkin has been part of healthy diets for centuries, and it turns out, it’s just as good for our dogs as it is for people. At Old Dog Cookie Company, we’ve known that for more than 30 years.

In fact, we were among the first to bake pumpkin dog treats for diabetic and arthritic dogs, long before pumpkin became a popular ingredient in pet food or dog treats. As we approach Thanksgiving, pumpkin isn’t just a tasty seasonal flavor—it’s a natural superfood that supports your dog’s digestion, immunity, and overall wellness.

Why Pumpkin Is So Good for Dogs

Pumpkin is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support dogs of all ages and activity levels. It’s gentle on the stomach, naturally sweet, and full of essential nutrients that keep tails wagging.

Here’s why we love it:

Supports digestion: Pumpkin is rich in soluble fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestive system. It can ease both constipation and diarrhea by balancing moisture in the stool.
Strengthens the immune system: The vitamin C in pumpkin helps protect against illness and supports strong joints and connective tissues.
Promotes healthy skin and coat: With natural zinc and antioxidants, pumpkin nourishes the skin and keeps coats shiny and soft.
Supports vision health: Pumpkin’s beta carotene converts to vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy eyesight—especially important for aging dogs.
Low in calories, big on flavor: Naturally sweet and satisfying, pumpkin adds great taste without unnecessary calories, making it perfect for diabetic or weight-conscious pups.

A Key Ingredient in Our Treats

For three decades, pumpkin has been a cornerstone ingredient in our Diabetic and Arthritis Relief Dog Treats. We use only 100% pure pumpkin puree sourced in the USA. Each recipe is baked in small batches with care and includes vet-approved ingredients chosen for specific health benefits:

In our Diabetic Dog Treats, pumpkin provides natural fiber and flavor without added sugar or preservatives.
In our Arthritis Relief Dog Treats, pumpkin complements a blend of herbs that support joint comfort and mobility.

It’s the same pure pumpkin we add to our own dogs’ food several times a week.

A Simple Way to Show You Care

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect time to give your dog the benefits of pumpkin. Whether it’s baked into our treats or added by the spoonful to your dog’s meal, pumpkin supports digestion, joint health, and immune strength while making mealtime more delicious.

Just remember to only use 100% pure canned pumpkin—never pumpkin pie filling, which can contain sweeteners and spices that are harmful to dogs.

At Old Dog Cookie Company, we’ve believed in the power of pumpkin since the very beginning. After 30 years of baking pumpkin dog treats with this amazing ingredient, we’re still seeing the same results: happy, healthy dogs who love every bite.