Pumpkin Seeds for Natural Worm Support in Dogs

A gentle, food-based approach to gut health.

Pumpkin seeds have been used for generations as a natural way to support healthy digestion and help the body deal with intestinal worms. They’re simple, safe for most dogs, and easy to incorporate into meals.

Below is everything you need to know, plus the science behind how pumpkin seeds work, how to prepare them, and why quality matters.

How Pumpkin Seeds Help With Worms

Pumpkin seeds contain a compound called cucurbitacin, an amino acid that has a paralysing effect on certain intestinal worms.

Here’s how it works:

1. Grinding releases cucurbitacin, the compound is locked inside the seed and only becomes available once the seed is broken down.

2. Cucurbitacin paralyses the worms, which weakens their grip on the intestinal walls.

3. The worms detach and are expelled naturally through normal bowel movements.

Pumpkin seeds do not kill worms, but they help the body flush them out without harsh chemicals. This makes them a useful part of a natural worming routine.

How to Feed Pumpkin Seeds

You can give pumpkin seeds:

• Raw

• Air-dried

• Dehydrated

• Lightly roasted

Fresh seeds from whole pumpkins often have the shell on, while store-bought “pepitas” are already hulled. Both are fine to use once ground.

Why grinding matters

Whole seeds pass straight through the digestive system and won’t release cucurbitacin.

Use:

• A coffee grinder

• A bullet blender

• A pestle and mortar (If you have the patience)

Avoid Pre-Ground Pumpkin Seeds

Pre-ground seeds:

• Are more vulnerable to aflatoxins (naturally occurring mould toxins that can be harmful to dogs)

• Lose potency over time, making cucurbitacin less effective

• Oxidise quicker, reducing overall nutritional value

For safety and effectiveness, always grind them fresh if possible. You can grind enough for 7 days and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and reduces the risk of moulds developing.

Use Pumpkin Seeds as Part of a Layered Approach

Pumpkin seeds are not a complete worming solution on their own. They’re best used as part of a layered, natural prevention plan, which may include:

• Raw garlic

• Herbal blends

• Regular faecal worm counts (FWECs)

• Good hygiene

• Furry chews

This holistic approach helps support the gut while avoiding unnecessary chemicals.

Quality Matters: Choose Organic EU or UK Seeds

Not all pumpkin seeds are equal.

Choose organic seeds grown in the UK or EU for best quality.

Avoid seeds originating from China due to concerns about:

• Heavy metal contamination

• Soil pollution

• Poorer agricultural regulations

While many imported seeds can be safe, UK/EU-grown options offer better traceability and cleaner soil standards.

Extra Nutritional Benefits

Pumpkin seeds are more than just a worming aid, they’re a nutritious daily topper:

• Zinc – supports skin, coat, and immunity

• Magnesium – helps muscle and nerve health

• Healthy fats – support joints and hormone balance

• Plant-based antioxidants – protect cells and support overall wellness

They’re a great addition for dogs with:

• IBS or digestive sensitivity

• Itchy skin

• Stress-related stomach issues

• Low appetite for mineral-rich foods

How Much to Feed

The general guide commonly used by natural practitioners is:

• 1/2 tsp of freshly ground seeds per 10kg bodyweight every other day.

© Kayleigh Adams, written for NO BULL Just Natural Health for Dogs.