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My dog is constipated. How much pumpkin should I give for relief?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

How much pumpkin should I give my dog for constipation? She is a 20-pound Cockapoo.

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on August 26th, 2015

[Pumpkin](https://www.petcoach.co/article/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-pets) is a "super food" of the canine world. [Pumpkin](https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/pumpkin) contains soluble fiber and beta-carotene and can do wonders for both constipation and diarrhea. However, if your dog is lethargic, not eating, vomiting has diarrhea or is straining and not passing any stool, you need to seek veterinary attention immediately. That being said, the recommended amount of [pumpkin to give a dog](https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/pumpkin/) is 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight of plain, canned pumpkin (NOT pie filling) or fresh, steamed pumpkin. Given once or twice daily, this can aid in defecation. Always have fresh water available. Mix in some warm water in the food to increase intake which can also help prevent constipation. If the constipation persists for more than 24 hours, you should see your veterinarian.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 9th, 2017

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! 1-2 teaspoons of canned pumpkin twice per day is a normal amount for a dog of Vega's size. However, you should be careful to only feed canned pumpkin, rather than pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin does have a good amount of fiber in it, and may cause a little bit of gas. You can also try some plain green beans or boiled sweet potato. There are many good dog foods available. I recommend brands such as Purina, Hill's, and Royal Canin as these have a long history of being nutritionally balanced for dogs of various ages. There are options available for foods lower in fat and which are easier to digest. I hope this helps and am happy to answer any other questions you may have!

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    Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 15th, 2017

    I would start with only one tablespoon once daily, to make sure you do not cause constipation. You can increase to one tablespoon per meal, so twice daily, after a week. Only continue for as long as is needed.

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 29th, 2018

    Constipation can be a very serious condition, it can be caused by a physical blockage (foreign body like a bone) or a functional peristalsis deficiency of the intestines. In order to treat simple constipation, you should increase the fibers in the food (e.g. canned pumpkin) and can add a little mineral oil to the diet. I strongly advise taking Snickers to the vet in order to check if there is a serious condition causing the constipation first.

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