If you have ever wondered, “can dogs eat beets?” Then this article is for you! Learn about the benefits and risks of beets for dogs.
Beets are known as “power food.” They are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Are they good for dogs too? Keep reading and learn more about beets and dogs.
For ultimate pet safety, I recommend consulting with your vet about all the questions you have about your dog eating beets.
What Are Beets
Beets are a root vegetable with an unmistakable red color. They are grown all over the United States.
People eat beet leaves cooked or raw. They also chop up and eat the bottom of the bulb – known as the beetroot.
They are packed with folic acid, vitamin C, and potassium and are linked to bone, muscle, and heart health.
But are they good for dogs too? Let’s find out!
Can Dogs Eat Beets
Yes, dogs can eat beets. They fall into the same family of human foods like sweet potatoes – only give them small quantities because they don’t need all the fiber. There are lots of things to keep in mind if you give your dog beets.
Only give your dog small amounts of beets at a time because there are a few health concerns beets pose to dogs. They are high in oxalates which could be an issue for dogs who are predisposed to bladder and kidney stones.
They are also acidic food that could give dogs gas and diarrhea.
Dog owners, if you want to give your dog beets, only give them a small amount and watch for any negative reactions.
In this guide, I’ll explain all the different types of beets and whether they are safe for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Beets Raw?
Raw fresh beets can be a potential choking hazard. They could also cause an obstruction in the small intestine.
For this reason, you should not give your dogs raw beets.
Can Dogs Eat Beets Cooked?
If you want to give your dog beets, it’s best to cut them up into small pieces and cook them so they are soft.
Dogs can eat cooked beets, and the cooked beets have lots of health benefits for your dogs. They are known as healthy food with lots of nutritional value. Canines don’t need to eat as much fiber or plant-based foods as humans do. It’s a good idea to only give your pet a small amount of cooked beets at a time so they don’t get an upset stomach.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Beets?
No, dogs should not eat canned beets. They are usually covered in high amounts of sodium. Dogs are sensitive to sodium and eating too much could cause sodium toxicity, dehydrate them, or even cause bladder stones.
Can Dogs Eat Pickled Beets?
Dogs should not eat pickled beets. They have way too much salt for your dog. In fact, dogs shouldn’t eat any foods that are canned for humans, even in small portions.
Can Dogs Eat Beet Chips?
There are lots of recipes out there for making beet chip dog treats. Dogs can safely eat beet chips. This is a great treat and the best way for them to get vitamins A and C.
Just be sure to limit how much they eat and only give it to them as an occasional treat.
Can Dogs Eat Beetroot?
The beetroot is the red bulb part of the plant. Since it has oxalates and high acidity, be careful when you give it to your dog. You should also only give it to them cooked, not raw.
Can Dogs Eat Beet Juice?
Beet juice is safe for dogs to drink. However, you should limit how much you give a dog to drink. Beet juice has high sugar content which is extra dangerous for overweight dogs. Too much beet juice could upset their stomach.
Can Dogs Eat Sugar Beet?
Sugar beets are different from red beets. This plant has a higher concentration of sucrose and is commercially grown for sugar production.
Dogs should not eat high amounts of sugar. It could lead to heart disease and obesity. Do not give dogs sugar beets.
Can Dogs Eat Red Beets?
Red beets are the traditional form of beets that most people eat. Dogs can eat red beets, they should just be cooked thoroughly and in small pieces.
Also, watch out for any gastrointestinal or allergic reactions after they eat them.
Can Dogs Eat Golden Beets?
Golden beets are a different type of beet that has a sweeter taste and a less earthy flavor. Dogs can safely eat golden beets. They are a great source of fiber. Just keep an eye on your dog and watch out for any gas or other stomach issues.
Can Dogs Eat Orange Beets?
Golden beets are also called orange beets. They have lots of antioxidants that help your dog’s body fight inflammation. You should still only give them a small bit at first and watch for any signs of stomach reactions.
Can Dogs Eat White Beets?
White beets are just like red beets but they have white flesh. Out of all of the varieties, these have the highest concentration of sugar.
It’s best to give your dog the red ones instead of the white ones, that way they don’t eat too much sugar.
Can Dogs Eat Silverbeet?
Even though it has the word beet in it, silverbeets are not beets. They are actually known more commonly as chard or Swiss chard. You might have seen them in a salad.
Yes, dogs can eat silverbeet. They are extremely high in fiber, so only give them a small amount at a time.
Can Dogs Eat Beet Greens?
The beet greens are the leafy part of the beet plant. They are considered healthy for dogs because they are packed with vitamins and minerals and they balance your dog’s pH in their gut.
Can dogs eat cooked beet leafy greens? Yes, it’s best to give them to your dog cooked so that they are easy for them to digest.
Can dogs eat raw beet greens? They can safely eat raw beet greens. However, this increases how much fiber they will eat. Eating too much fiber could give your dog stomach problems like gas or diarrhea.
Can Dogs Eat Beet Leaves?
Yes, dogs can eat beet leaves. If you notice your dog eating beet leaves, keep an eye on them and watch for any gastrointestinal reactions and digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, or gas.
Beet leaves are safe for dogs, but could lead to an upset stomach for sensitive dogs.
Are Beets Good For Dogs?
Yes, beets are good for dogs. They are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Beets really aren’t as good for dogs as they are for humans. A dog’s body benefits more from the protein, carbohydrates, fat, and vitamins in high-quality dog food than they do from plants.
Are Beets Bad for Dogs?
No, beets are not actually bad for dogs. They don’t have a ton of benefits and you should only give them cooked beets once in a while. In general, they are pretty neutral for your dog – not really good and not really bad.
Beet Pulp For Dogs
Beet pulp is an ingredient in commercial dog food. It adds much-needed fiber and vitamins to the food.
The way it is processed, beet pulp is the stuff that is left over after the sugar is removed from the sugar beets. Beet pulp doesn’t contain sugar. It’s also known to be mild on a dog’s stomach.
Final Thoughts
It’s perfectly safe to give your dog some cooked beets once in a while. You can even add them to homemade dog treats. Check out this beet dog treats recipe.
Whenever you give your dog something new to eat, give them a small amount and watch for any negative reactions. If you have further questions, please ask your veterinarian.
More Dog Food Resources
Here are some more articles about the best and worst fruit for your dog to eat.
- Can Dogs Eat Black Beans
- Herbs Safe for Dogs
- Can Dogs Eat Persimmons
- Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit
- Can Dogs Eat Durian
- Can Dogs Eat Yams
- Fish for Dogs
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Peggy says
Great article! Thanks for the tips. I grow my own beets on a small scale. Its nice to know my canine crew can enjoy some too!