Can dogs eat butternut squash? You may be asking this because your dog took a nibble of this gourd veggie, or maybe you want to feed your pup a new treat. Humans can eat butternut squash, so is it also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, butternut squash is safe for dogs to eat. It’s a member of the gourd family and one of many varieties of squash. All types of squash, like pumpkin, are usually safe for canine consumption, and they each have their own unique benefits.
While squash is safe for dogs to eat, you must still contact your veterinarian before you feed your dog any new foods or ingredients. Here’s what you should know about feeding butternut squash to your dog.
How Is Butternut Squash Good For Dogs?
The fleshy bit of butternut squash is rich in nutrients for your pup. The gourd is loaded with vitamin A, which is essential for your dog’s health. Vitamin A aids in cell development and growth and helps your pup have healthier skin, coat, muscles, and even eyes.
Additionally, butternut squash is rich in B vitamins, a family of vitamins that has an array of benefits for your doggo. B9, also known as folate, also aids in cell development and boosts immunity.
Butternut squash is also a wonderful source of minerals like phosphorus and magnesium, the former of which aids in bone health and the latter of which helps your pup absorb the vitamins that butternut squash contains.
This squash is very fibrous, which aids in digestion. All in all, it’s a fantastic option if you are looking for a veggie to feed your pupper.
How Can I Safely Give Butternut Squash To My Dog?
Dogs can eat butternut squash both raw and cooked, but raw may be difficult for your dog to digest. It’s important to note that you should avoid giving your dog the skin or seeds. While perfectly fine for human consumption, the skin and seeds can be tough on a dog’s sensitive digestive system.
When preparing your dog’s squash, roasting or steaming is the way to go. Leave the squash free of oils and seasonings, as these can also upset your dog’s tummy.
Be sure to cut your dog’s squash into smaller pieces. This mitigates the risk of choking and makes digestion easier for your dog.
One interesting way to prepare butternut squash for your dog, provided you have the equipment, is to cut it into smaller pieces and use a dehydrator to make chips. These could be used for healthy, on-the-go treats.
Has your dog ever eaten butternut squash? How did you serve it to your dog? Leave us a comment below!
