Beetroots are known for their vibrant color and dense nutritional content, often praised by experts on human nutrition. But can dogs eat beets? Will they get the same benefits as we do?
To find out, let’s talk about what these vegetables are and if our dogs can also benefit from this superfood.
Is Beet Good for Dogs?
Beetroots are the powerhouse of nutrition. When fed properly, they can boost a dog’s health and provide several benefits to maintain it. The vegetable supports various bodily functions, from skin to digestive health. Here’s an overview:
Fiber
Fiber helps dogs maintain good digestive health. It prevents issues such as constipation and diarrhea, while also aiding in weight management and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Fiber also keeps stool firm, reducing the risk of anal gland infection.
Vitamin C
Beets have good amounts of vitamin C, a nutrient that supports the immune system while also serving as an antioxidant that protects cells from free radicals. Vitamin C also helps reduce inflammation and promote recovery from illnesses.
Folate
Folate, or vitamin B9, is essential for cell building and development. It also supports a healthy skin and coat, as well as promotes a strong immune system. For pregnant dogs, folate aids in normal fetal development, making sure puppies grow without any complications.
Pyridoxine
Vitamin B6 plays a role in a dog’s everyday functions. It supports the nervous system, helps with red blood cell development, and also contributes to the dog’s immune system. Additionally, pyridoxine helps regulate hormones and proper nerve function.
Manganese
Manganese plays a role in the development of bones and cartilage. It’s also a key part in energy production by metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Overall, manganese helps prevent injuries and the risk of arthritis in dogs.
Magnesium
Magnesium contributes to muscle function, energy production, and the regulation of the dog’s nervous system. For active dogs who love regular physical activity, regular amounts of magnesium help them stay energized and focused.
Potassium
Potassium helps maintain fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve signals. It’s an essential part of the dog’s body, as it’s a primary electrolyte. Essentially, potassium is vital for many bodily functions, such as the heart, muscles, and nerves.
Iron
Iron is a mineral that helps in oxygen transport and red blood cell production. It’s a key component of hemoglobin and myoglobin. Through this, iron is also involved in energy production, which contributes to a dog’s overall activity levels.
Types of Beets Dogs Can Eat
Beetroots come in all shapes and sizes, especially when we put a little human touch on serving them. While some forms are safe, others should be avoided at all costs. Here are the types of beets dogs can eat:
Fresh Beets. Fresh beets are the healthiest and safest option for dogs. When peeled, washed, and properly portioned, they can provide a lot of benefits and satisfaction.
Cooked Beets. The best type of beet for dogs is cooked beets. Steaming or boiling them makes it easier for dogs to digest them. Not only that, cooked beetroots are often more desirable as they are not as hard, but even more palatable.
Beet Greens. The greens of the beets can also be served to dogs. These also provide a lot of nutritional benefits. However, they do contain oxalates, which can be harmful in large quantities. To be safe, we recommend serving the beetroots themselves.
Aside from these, other types of beets that have been modified significantly are mostly not good for dogs. These include:
Canned Beets. Canned beetroots should generally be avoided. They often contain added salt, sugar, or preservatives that can be harmful to dogs. These ingredients can often cause digestive upset, especially when eating in large portions.
Pickled Beets. Dogs should also not eat pickled beets. These are filled with high levels of salt, vinegar, and other additives that are harmful to dogs. When eaten, they can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Beet Juice. While beet juice seems like a good idea, it actually isn’t. Most commercial beet juice products contain high amounts of sugar that are very dangerous for dogs.
Potential Risks of Beets for Dogs
Although these vegetables are a powerhouse for nutrition, there are some risks that accompany them. Beets have relatively high amounts of oxalates, compounds that contribute to the formation of kidney and bladder stones. This is especially dangerous for dogs with urinary issues.
Additionally, beets have natural sugars that can become dangerous for diabetic dogs. Plus, overfeeding is always a concern with any type of food. Too much can lead to obesity and digestive issues, which should always be avoided.
There’s also the case of food allergies to beets, but this scenario can be quite rare.
Serving Guide: Safe Ways to Serve Beets to Dogs
If you have a couple of beetroots at home that you would like to share with your dog, then you must first prepare them properly.
Wash and Peel the Beets
Start by washing and peeling the beets. The skin can have some remaining pesticides and debris, which can be bad for dogs. Peeling also removes the tough outer skin that’s hard to eat and digest.
Cook the Beets
Next, cook the beets by either boiling or steaming them. Either way works just as well. These methods soften the texture, making the beetroots easier to digest while preserving key nutrients. Avoid frying or adding any seasoning, as these can irritate your dog’s stomach.
Slice or Mash the Beets
After the beets have been fully cooked, you can either slice them into manageable pieces or mash them completely. Doing so will avoid any risks of choking or digestive obstructions.
Serve the Beets Gradually
To help control the pace, give the beets slowly and gradually. We recommend giving one piece at a time. If you want to give mashed beetroots, then adding them on top of your dog’s regular meal will spice things up. Here’s a quick visual on how much you can give:
Size | Amount |
|---|---|
Small Dogs | 1 to 2 teaspoons |
Medium Dogs | 2 to 3 teaspoons |
Large Dogs | 1 to 2 tablespoons |
Giant Dogs | 2 to 3 tablespoons |
In general, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily diet. Just follow this simple guide, and your dog will be able to get the most out of these vegetables.
Why Do They Put Beet Pulp in Dog Food?
In some types of dog food, you might have noticed an ingredient called beet pulp. Beet pulp is a byproduct of the process of extracting the sugar from the beetroots. This byproduct contains the remaining fiber but only a tiny amount of its natural sugars.
This is commonly used as a source of dietary fiber for dogs, making it an excellent ingredient for promoting digestive health and maintaining firm stools. While beet pulp does lack the vitamins found in whole beetroots, the other components of dog food will supply them.
Can Puppies Eat Beets?
Yes, puppies can eat beets, but with added precautions. Their digestive systems are still developing and are more sensitive than those of adults. So, anything new, especially fibrous foods such as beets, should be given slowly. Start with a tiny piece of cooked beet.
“A dog’s health is dependent on what you serve in their bowls.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts on Beets for Dogs
Dogs can eat beets, but they should be served correctly and given moderately. They can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet as they offer the essentials such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Just make sure to follow our guide, and you can start giving this yummy treat to your best friend.
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