Overview
Yes. Squash contains a wide range of vitamins and minerals beneficial to dogs. Each variety of squash has a different nutritional profile, but squash, in general, is high in antioxidants, vitamins, potassium, and fiber.
Can dogs eat Squash?
Benefits
- Squash refers to a family of plants. Botanically speaking, squash is a fruit, but it is commonly prepared and cooked as a vegetable.
- Squash has different varieties. Winter squashes include acorn squash, butternut squash, spaghetti squash, and pumpkin. Summer squashes include zucchini, crookneck squash, straightneck squash, banana squash, pattypan squash, and spiny gourd.
- Squash is high in vitamins A, B6, and C, folate, magnesium, riboflavin, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for a dog's health and can help to protect against heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and other illnesses.
- Squash provides a good amount of potassium and vitamin K, which are essential for keeping the body functioning properly and helping to prevent diseases in dogs.
- Squash is also a good source of vitamin E and antioxidants, which can help protect the dog's body from damage caused by free radicals.
Risks
- The seeds and peel of most squash are choking hazards.
- Most raw squash is hard for dogs to digest. Excessive consumption can cause digestive issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach upset.
Servings
- Remove the skin and seeds of the squash. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook by boiling, steaming, roasting, or grilling. Avoid using seasoning and spices.
