This is a seasonal pumpkin soup for dogs, but you can make it year-round. Pumpkins have been used throughout history as both food and medicine. They’re grown almost all over the world, ranging in size from very tiny to giants weighing more than 100 pounds.
This delicious soup is loaded with ingredients that are great for your dog … and you!
Health Benefits Of Pumpkin
This winter squash is an excellent source of antioxidants including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin compounds that help fight the damaging effect of free radicals that cause disease.
Pumpkin is also a great source of fiber and may be helpful for dog gastrointestinal issues. It also contains minerals such as potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus; vitamins A, C, B, E, and enzymes. It’s often used as a digestive aid for nausea and diarrhea.
Pumpkin seeds are a popular remedy for intestinal parasites, especially tapeworm. This action is caused by an amino acid in the seeds called cucurbitacin. This compound paralyzes the worms, making them detach from the body and thus more easily flushed out.
RELATED: Read more about pumpkin health benefits for dogs …
Let’s take a look at the other ingredients in this Fall favorite recipe.
Bone Broth
If you choose to use bone broth, homemade is usually best. However, if you buy ready-made, check the label so you can avoid ingredients that aren’t dog-friendly … such as onions.
Bone broth is rich in collagen and amino acids. It’s been made in kitchens around the world for decades (at least!). It’s known to benefit joints and digestive issues, among other things.
Carrot Juice
Carrot juice contains a wealth of vitamins including A, C, D, E, K, and B-complex. Because of the natural sugar content in carrots, it’s best given sparingly.
Avocados
Avocados sometimes get a bad rap for dogs and there are indeed some rules to feeding them to your dog. Only feed the ripe flesh and don’t let your dog eat the pit or foliage. And don’t go guacamole crazy and give your dog two or three every day (not that you would!).
Avocados are a source of vitamins A, B6, C, and E as well as gentle fiber that can aid digestive health. They also contain folate, niacin, potassium, and antioxidants. The fatty acids in ripe avocados are especially good for the coat.
Olive Oil
Olive oil contains phytonutrients, vitamin E, and omega fatty acids that help keep your dog’s skin moisturized and well-nourished.
Garlic
Garlic is another often misunderstood ingredient. This partly comes from other plants in the same (Allium) family that indeed shouldn’t be given to dogs … like onions. It also comes from research that used excessive amounts of garlic extract.
When fresh organic garlic is given in small amounts it provides antibiotic, antifungal, antimicrobial, and anthelmintic (de-worming) qualities. It also acts as a prebiotic, supporting the formation of healthy bacteria in the digestive system.
RELATED: Learn about the health benefits of garlic for dogs …
Ginger
Next up is one of my favorite friends; ginger. This funky-looking rhizome provides some truly amazing health benefits, including … digestive support and reducing nausea. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-pathogen.
Cinnamon
Even though the recipe calls for a very small amount, let’s not forget cinnamon because the health benefits are as awesome as that wonderful aroma. Cinnamon contains antioxidants that fight disease throughout the body. It’s also good for joints and muscle soreness, regulating blood sugar, and fighting yeast infections. For dogs, use Ceylon cinnamon and only in small amounts.
RELATED: Read why cinnamon and pumpkin are both good for dogs …
PRO TIP
If you’re using a fresh whole pumpkin for the following recipe, you can even use the hollowed-out shell as a beautiful bowl!
While your dog may not appreciate your artful presentation, your friends and family will! Yep, this recipe is made with human-quality ingredients that offer us the same nutritional benefits and deliciousness.
Great Pumpkin Soup
2 cups pumpkin, peeled and diced (or use canned if fresh isn’t available)
1-1/2 cups of bone broth (making it more savory) or unsweetened apple juice (giving it a touch of sweetness that humans like)
1 cup unsweetened carrot
Juice 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender and puree thoroughly. Serve at room temperature or slightly warm for dogs (you may find that you enjoy it a bit warmer, especially during cold weather).
- For your dog, add a small amount over food or use a small amount on its own for tummy trouble.
- For yourself, pour into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pumpkin seeds, if desired.
You can use this soup as a special topper on your dog’s meal and pour yourself a bowl of comforting nutritious goodness as well. And while you and your dog are enjoying this fall goodie, you can discuss where to stake out your spot to catch a glimpse of the Great Pumpkin this year!
