““🎃 Pumpkin Night at the Farm: Why Our Doodles Love This Fall Superfood””

There’s something magical about autumn at Smeraglia — the golden light spilling over the fields, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the cozy feeling of gathering together as a family. This weekend, our porch turned into a full-blown pumpkin workshop as my big kids, my parents, and I carved pumpkins surrounded by doodles.

The doodles, of course, were completely convinced this was an event made just for them. Every time a pumpkin lid came off, noses went straight in, tails wagging, and soon enough, there were stringy orange bits clinging to every furry face in sight.

And as always, that raised the classic question our clients love to ask this time of year:
“Can my dog eat pumpkin?”

The answer is a happy yes — in moderation!

⸻

🧡 Pumpkin: Nature’s Fall Superfood for Dogs

Pumpkin is one of those beautiful, natural foods that’s as good for your dog as it is for you. It’s full of:
•   Fiber, which helps digestion and keeps everything balanced
•   Beta-carotene, which supports eye and immune health
•   Vitamins A, C, and E, which promote a shiny coat and healthy skin

We often use plain pumpkin puree at Smeraglia for pups with sensitive tummies — it’s gentle, hydrating, and full of natural goodness.

So as we carved, I decided to let our doodles enjoy a little of the fresh, raw pumpkin “guts” (yes, that’s the official term!). They absolutely loved it — licking spoons, nibbling bits of the soft filling, and looking quite proud of themselves for “helping.”

⸻

😊 Pawpaw Joins the Pumpkin Party

But the real surprise of the night wasn’t one of the doodles — it was Pawpaw.

My dad, who’s 83 years young, was watching the dogs eat pumpkin like it was candy. Then, before anyone could stop him, he reached right into a pumpkin, scooped out a handful of the raw filling, and took a bite!

We all just looked at him and said, “Oh my gosh, Dad!” He grinned, totally unfazed, and went right on chewing.

And I’ll admit — I decided to give it a try too. It wasn’t bad! Just pure, earthy pumpkin — nothing sweet or fancy, but wholesome and real. The doodles seemed to think I’d finally figured it out.

It was such a funny, unexpected moment — a reminder of how much joy there is in just being together and not taking life too seriously.

⸻

🎨 The Great Pumpkin Showdown

Of course, no Smeraglia family gathering is complete without a little friendly competition.

Natalie, Lauren, Alyssa, and Brooklyn were all out to carve the best pumpkin of the evening — and let me tell you, things got serious! There were designs, strategies, and just a touch of sibling rivalry in the air.

I knew better than to get in the middle of that kind of judging contest. So when the time came to declare a winner, I smiled and said, “They’re all perfect!”

Of course, nobody believed me.

So I’ll let you decide! Once you see the photos, you can be the judge. Comment and tell us whose pumpkin wins your vote — but be warned, this bunch takes their bragging rights seriously! 😉

⸻

🌿 Raw Pumpkin & Seeds: What’s Safe for Dogs

Here’s what you need to know if your doodle wants to join in:
•   The raw pumpkin filling (that stringy inside) is safe for dogs in small amounts. It’s rich in fiber, moisture, and vitamins.
•   Pumpkin seeds are safe, too — as long as your dog chews them well. Smaller dogs should have just one or two.
•   If you want to offer seeds later as a crunchy snack, rinse and roast them plain (no oil, salt, or seasoning).

Just remember, even healthy foods should be given in moderation. Pumpkin’s high fiber can cause loose stools if dogs eat too much.

⸻

⚖️ Portion Guidelines

A simple rule of thumb:
•   Small dogs: 1 tablespoon per day
•   Medium dogs: 2 tablespoons
•   Large dogs: 3–4 tablespoons

That’s plenty to give all the benefits without overdoing it.

⸻

🍂 A Fall Tradition Worth Sharing

By the end of the night, our porch was lined with glowing jack-o’-lanterns, the air was cool and crisp, and our doodles were happily sprawled out — full of pumpkin and contentment.

Watching my big kids carve, my parents smile, and everyone just enjoying the evening reminded me what this season is all about — connection. The laughter, the simplicity, the togetherness — those are the real treasures of fall.

So this year, when you carve your pumpkins, let your doodle join in. Share a little pumpkin goodness, laugh a little, and make it a tradition. Because fall isn’t just about pumpkins — it’s about family, fur, and fun.