Pumpkin spice can be found in coffees, muffins, ice cream, cocktails, pumpkin pie (of course), and all sorts of other tasty treats. While you can go ahead and eat your pumpkin spice products, don’t share them with your pet. Pumpkin spice isn’t safe for dogs.
What is Pumpkin Spice?
For starters, there’s often no pumpkin in pumpkin spice-flavored products. Rather, pumpkin spice refers to a mixture of several spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. This combination is typically used to flavor baked goods made with fruits like pumpkin. While some of the ingredients are safe for dogs in moderation, others, like nutmeg, are toxic to dogs in larger quantities.
Of equal concern is the food or drinks the pumpkin spice is used in. For example, the caffeine in a pumpkin spice latte is dangerous for dogs. Baked goods may contain raisins, the artificial sweetener xylitol, chocolate, or other substances that are highly toxic to dogs.
Can My Dog Have Pumpkin Pie?
Given that this delicious fall staple contains so many ingredients that are unsafe for dogs, the answer is no. Along with the spices, the filling contains sugar and condensed milk, which can cause stomach upset. In small amounts, pie crusts won’t harm your dog, but it’s usually made with sugar and butter, neither of which is good for them.
On the other hand, pure pumpkin, rather than canned pumpkin mix, is safe and even has some beneficial properties. It’s low in fat, contains vitamins, and is high in fiber. It’s often recommended for digestive upsets like diarrhea.
Signs of Pumpkin Spice Poisoning in Dogs
A dog would have to eat a large amount of pumpkin spice to be in danger of serious illness. But, should they get their paws on a container and dig in, contact your vet or Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
If you suspect your dog may have ingested pumpkin spice, be on the alert for symptoms such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Abdominal pain
- Mouth irritations or dry mouth
- Lethargy
Pumpkin Dog Treats Without Pumpkin Spice
You don’t have to leave the family dog out altogether when it comes to the delights of pumpkin. Try making these dog-safe homemade pumpkin treats to give your pet their very own version of pumpkin spice.