Can Dogs Eat Butternut Squash?

While most think that dogs are strictly carnivores, they are in actual fact omnivores. They can eat most of the things that people can. Although this is true, it’s important to know the exceptions as some foods can be toxic to dogs. So, can dogs eat butternut squash?

For those of you who have already been sneaking your squash to your dogs we have some good news. Squash is good for your dog, if prepared correctly, but there are a few caveats to consider… specifically in the preparation and the amounts.

 Let’s break the question down a little so that you’ll have the specifics that you need to know.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Butternut Squash?

It is not a good idea to give Raw Butternut squash to your dog. While your dog can eat some raw vegetables and get great health benefits, Butternut squash is not on that list. Raw butternut squash is hard to digest and our dogs digestive system is different to ours.

Due to this, raw Butternut squash is a definite no-no for your dog as it can induce vomiting, diarrhoea and a bad stomach. So, raw Butternut squash should be avoided from your dogs diet.

Can Dogs Eat Cooked Butternut Squash

Cooked Butternut squash is a whole different story.

Cooked squash can actually be very healthy for dogs. While raw Butternut squash can give your dog diarrhea, cooked butternut squash is great for your dogs digestion. Adding a small amount of cooked butternut squash to your dogs regular food can calm their stomach down.

Although cooked butternut squash is good for your dog it is important to note that certain means of cooking can make it unhealthy for you dog. Its important to refrain from adding salt, fats, or sugars to it as these are not good for your dog. That said, you can roast it, steam it, or boil it up in water for them.

Do Dog’s Like Butternut Squash?

This varies depending on the dog. Some dogs absolutely love butternut squash and other dont. Just as we have our own personal tastes when it comes to foods, so does your dog.

How Much Butternut Squash Can Dogs Eat?

Here is where we meet one of the caveats. With a larger dog, you can give them three cubed pieces a day. For a medium-sized dog you should limit it to 2 and for smaller dogs, just cook one piece for them (two will probably be fine but see how your dog reacts to the 1 first).

While it has a lot of health benefits and while many dogs love Butternut squash, moderation is key with this dense vegetable.

Health Benefits of Butternut Squash for dogs

Butternut squash has a lot going for it on the vitamins and minerals front. Let’s break it down so that you have a good idea of what your dog is getting from it.

• Vitamin A – Vitamin A is great for your dog’s vision and for bolstering-up their immune system.
• Vitamin B6 – This vitamin helps to improve functions of your dog’s nervous system.
• Vitamin C – Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps your dog’s cognitive function and also can help in reducing inflammation when your dog is hurt or ill.
• Fiber – The Fiber in Butternut Squash can help with diarrhea or with constipation issues.
• Potassium – Especially beneficial to older dogs, Potassium helps for building and maintaining strong bones.
• Phytonutrients – These help to maintain cellular health as well as detoxification and proper organ functions.

The verdict – Butternut squash is excellent in moderation

So, there you have it! We’ve broken the Butternut squash question down to preparation, recommended amounts, and its nutritional benefits. If your dog likes Butternut squash, feel free to prepare some in advance and you can give them some in small amounts each day if you like. Keep it in mind for medicinal use as well.

Our final verdict – Butternut squash is good but keep the servings small!