Squash; a family of fruits (yep, they’re technically fruit, not vegetables!) that probably make their way to your table fairly often and throughout the year! They’re also known as the “Curcubits”. Included in this family are pumpkins, butternut squash, zucchini, cucumbers, marrows, and melons.
So, when we’re chopping and cooking up a feast in the kitchen, and we have those puppy-dog-eyes looking up at us from the floor – can we share a piece of squash with our four-legged friend? Can dogs eat squash…?
Can Dogs Eat Squash?
Yes, dogs can eat most of the squash family! Squash is high in fiber (which it’s argued many dogs typically lack in their diet), they’re low in calories, and many squash varieties are packed with nutrients like beta-carotene, vitamin A, and potassium.
Squash has quite a sweet taste too, so most dogs will love an addition of squash to their bowl or a piece as a treat.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Squash?
When serving your dog squash, you should remove the seeds, and skin and then cook it. Raw squash can prove difficult to digest for a dog, and may result in diarrhea or vomiting. It’s best to bake or steam your squash, and keep it unseasoned (so, no salt and pepper or other flavorings) to reap the benefits of sharing squash with your pup.
It’s advisable to chop your squash into bite-sized pieces, to help reduce any risk of choking for your dog.
Can Dogs Have Butternut Squash?
Yes, as long as it’s cooked, de-seeded, de-skinned, unseasoned, and served in bite-sized pieces to your dog!
Can Dogs Eat Spaghetti Squash?
Yes, but as above, it should only be the flesh of this winter fruit that’s served to your dog, and it should be cooked and chopped into smaller pieces.
Can Dogs Eat Acorn Squash?
Yes, as long as it’s enjoyed in moderation and not excessively. And again, cooked without seasoning, seeds, or skin. Acorn squash is particularly high in vitamin C which is great for dogs and humans alike.
Can Dogs Have Yellow Squash?
Otherwise known as zucchini, yes dogs can eat yellow squash! You can leave the skin on of zucchini for a dog, but make sure to chop it up into bite-sized pieces and cook it unseasoned.
Is Pumpkin Squash Good For Dogs?
Yes! You can read our blog on the benefits of pumpkins for dogs specifically here!
Sources
Author Gibson, Anne “The Squash Family – How To Grow Curcubits” The Microgardener https://themicrogardener.com/the-squash-family-how-to-grow-curcubits/
Author Taffer, Marissa “Can Dogs Eat Squash? Benefits And Risks Explained” Dog Eared by My Ollie, Sep 29. 2021 https://blog.myollie.com/can-dogs-eat-squash/
