· 9 min read

Can Dogs Eat Beets? A Pet Parent’s Guide to Benefits, Risks & Safe Feeding

Picture this: You’re chopping up fresh beets for your salad, and your dog trots over, tail wagging, nose twitching. They give you that “please share” look—those big, soulful eyes that make it impossible to say no. But wait… can dogs eat beets? Are these vibrant, earthy veggies safe for your furry friend, or should they stay off the menu?

If you’ve ever found yourself asking this question, you’re not alone. As pet parents, we want to spoil our dogs with healthy treats, but navigating which human foods are safe can feel like a minefield. Beets, with their rich color and nutrient-packed profile, are a common staple in many kitchens—but are they a good fit for your pup?

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: whether dogs can eat beets, the potential benefits, hidden risks, how to serve them safely, and even healthier alternatives if beets aren’t the best choice for your dog. Let’s dig in!

can dogs eat beets

Table of Contents

  1. Can Dogs Eat Beets? The Short Answer
  2. Nutritional Benefits of Beets for Dogs
  3. Potential Risks: What to Watch Out For
  4. How to Safely Feed Beets to Your Dog: Guidelines & Tips
  5. Healthier Alternatives to Beets
  6. FAQ: Your Beets & Dogs Questions Answered
  7. Conclusion: Moderation is Key
  8. References

Can Dogs Eat Beets? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat beets—in moderation. When prepared properly (cooked, peeled, and chopped into small pieces), beets are non-toxic and can even offer some health benefits. However, they’re not a “superfood” for dogs, and there are risks to overfeeding, like stomach upset or excess sugar. As with any new food, start small and monitor your dog for reactions.

Nutritional Benefits of Beets for Dogs

Beets are more than just a pretty veggie—they’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support your dog’s health when fed responsibly. Let’s break down their key nutrients:

1. Fiber: A Boost for Digestion

Beets are rich in dietary fiber, which helps keep your dog’s digestive system running smoothly. Fiber adds bulk to stool, preventing constipation, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria, supporting overall gut health. For dogs prone to digestive upsets, a small amount of cooked beet (in moderation!) can act as a gentle digestive aid.

2. Potassium: Supporting Heart & Muscle Health

Potassium is an essential mineral for dogs, playing a role in heart function, muscle contraction, and nerve signaling. Beets contain a decent amount of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and keep your dog’s heart rhythm steady.

3. Antioxidants: Fighting Inflammation

Beets get their deep red color from betalains—powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help neutralize free radicals (harmful molecules that damage cells) and may reduce inflammation, which is linked to conditions like arthritis, allergies, and even chronic diseases.

4. Folate (Vitamin B9): For Cell Growth

Folate is crucial for cell repair and growth, making it especially important for puppies, pregnant dogs, or dogs recovering from illness. Beets are a natural source of folate, supporting healthy tissue development.

5. Low-Calorie: A Weight-Friendly Treat

At just 44 calories per cup (cooked), beets are a low-calorie option for dogs on a weight management plan. When fed as an occasional treat (instead of high-calorie biscuits), they can satisfy your dog’s craving for something tasty without adding extra pounds.

Pro Tip: Beets are also a source of iron and vitamin C, though dogs typically get enough of these from their balanced dog food. Think of beets as a “supplemental” treat, not a replacement for their regular diet.

Potential Risks: What to Watch Out For

While beets are generally safe, they come with a few caveats. Here’s what to keep in mind to keep your dog healthy:

1. Natural Sugar: Too Much Can Spell Trouble

Beets contain natural sugars (about 8 grams per cup cooked). While natural sugar is better than added sugar, excess can lead to weight gain, insulin spikes, or even diabetes in dogs—especially those with pre-existing conditions like obesity or diabetes. Avoid feeding beets to dogs with sugar sensitivities.

2. Stomach Upset: Fiber Overload

While fiber is good for digestion, too much can backfire. Feeding large amounts of beet (or introducing it too quickly) may cause diarrhea, gas, or bloating—especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs. Puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with IBS are more prone to this, so start with tiny portions.

3. Choking Hazard: Raw or Large Chunks

Raw beets are hard and crunchy, making them a choking risk for small dogs or dogs who gulp their food. Even cooked beets can pose a hazard if cut into large pieces. Always peel, cook, and chop beets into bite-sized bits to prevent choking.

4. Oxalates: A Concern for Kidney Health

Beets contain oxalates—compounds that, in high amounts, can bind to calcium and form kidney stones. Dogs with a history of kidney disease, bladder stones, or calcium deficiencies should avoid beets altogether. For healthy dogs, occasional small servings are unlikely to cause issues, but moderation is key.

5. Beeturia: The “Scary” (But Harmless) Side Effect

Ever noticed your urine turns pink after eating beets? Dogs can experience this too! Beeturia (red/pink urine or stool) is caused by betalains and is completely harmless. However, it can be alarming if you’re not expecting it—so don’t panic if you see colorful pee or poop after your dog eats beets. If you’re unsure, contact your vet to rule out blood (but beeturia is usually the culprit).

How to Safely Feed Beets to Your Dog: Guidelines & Tips

If you want to share beets with your dog, follow these steps to keep them safe and happy:

Step 1: Prepare Beets Properly

  • Cook them: Raw beets are hard to digest and pose a choking risk. Steam, boil, or roast beets (without oil, salt, or spices) until soft.
  • Peel them: The skin can be tough and fibrous, leading to stomach upset.
  • Chop small: Cut into bite-sized pieces (no larger than a pea for small dogs, dime-sized for medium/large dogs) to prevent choking.

Step 2: Stick to the “10% Rule”

Treats—including beets—should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For reference:

  • Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1–2 tablespoons of cooked beet per week (e.g., Chihuahua, Yorkie).
  • Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): 2–3 tablespoons per week (e.g., Beagle, Cocker Spaniel).
  • Large dogs (50+ lbs): 3–4 tablespoons per week (e.g., Labrador, German Shepherd).

Step 3: Introduce Slowly

Start with a tiny amount (1 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 tablespoon for large dogs) and wait 24–48 hours. If your dog has no diarrhea, gas, or vomiting, you can gradually increase the serving (within the guidelines above).

Step 4: Avoid Additives

Never season beets with salt, garlic, onion, butter, or spices—these can be toxic or irritating to dogs. Plain, cooked beets are best.

Step 5: Skip Canned Beets

Canned beets often have added salt, sugar, or preservatives, which are bad for dogs. Stick to fresh, organic beets when possible.

Healthier Alternatives to Beets

If beets aren’t the right fit for your dog (e.g., they have diabetes, kidney issues, or hate the taste), try these safer, nutrient-dense alternatives:

1. Carrots

  • Why: Crunchy, low in sugar, high in vitamin A (supports eye health), and great for dental health (chewing helps clean teeth).
  • How: Raw (small pieces) or cooked, plain.

2. Green Beans

  • Why: Ultra-low calorie (22 calories per cup), high in fiber and vitamin K, and a favorite for weight management.
  • How: Steamed or raw (chopped), no salt.

3. Pumpkin (Plain, Canned)

  • Why: Rich in fiber and beta-carotene, pumpkin soothes upset stomachs and regulates digestion (good for both diarrhea and constipation).
  • How: Canned (unsweetened) or cooked fresh, mashed.

4. Broccoli (Cooked)

  • Why: Packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Supports immune health and is low in calories.
  • How: Steamed, chopped into small pieces (avoid raw—can cause gas).

5. Sweet Potatoes

  • Why: A great source of beta-carotene (vitamin A), fiber, and potassium. Lower in sugar than beets (6 grams per cup vs. 8 grams).
  • How: Baked or boiled, peeled and mashed (no added butter/sugar).

FAQ: Your Beets & Dogs Questions Answered

Q: Can dogs eat beet greens?

A: Yes, in small amounts! Beet greens (the leafy tops) are safe and contain fiber, iron, and vitamins A and C. Cook them first (raw greens can cause gas) and chop finely. Avoid overfeeding, as they also contain oxalates.

Q: Is beet juice safe for dogs?

A: It’s not recommended. Beet juice is high in concentrated sugar and lacks the fiber that makes whole beets digestible. Stick to whole, cooked beets instead.

Q: My dog ate a whole raw beet—should I worry?

A: Monitor for choking (if they swallowed large chunks) or stomach upset (diarrhea, vomiting). Raw beets are hard to digest, so your dog may have gas or loose stool, but it’s rarely dangerous. Contact your vet if symptoms last more than 24 hours.

Q: Can puppies eat beets?

A: Puppies can have small amounts of cooked beet (1–2 teaspoons, depending on size) as an occasional treat. Their digestive systems are sensitive, so introduce very slowly.

Q: Are beets good for dogs with arthritis?

A: Beets’ antioxidants (betalains) may help reduce inflammation, which could ease arthritis symptoms. However, consult your vet first—dogs with arthritis may have other dietary needs (e.g., joint supplements).

Conclusion: Moderation is Key

So, can dogs eat beets? Yes—but like all treats, they’re best enjoyed in moderation. Beets offer fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, but their sugar content and potential for stomach upset mean they shouldn’t be a regular part of your dog’s diet.

When in doubt, ask yourself: Is this treat necessary? Most dogs thrive on a balanced commercial diet, and treats should be just that—treats. If your dog has health issues (diabetes, kidney disease, or a sensitive stomach), skip beets and opt for safer alternatives like carrots or pumpkin.

As always, consult your vet before introducing new foods, especially if your dog has pre-existing conditions. They can help you tailor treats to your dog’s unique needs.

Here’s to happy, healthy pups—and maybe a tiny, cooked beet piece shared now and then! 🐾

References

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