Can Dogs Eat Beets? Safe Amounts & What to Avoid
YES, Dogs Can Eat Beets
Organic beets are the best choice. Make sure to prepare them properly and serve them plain in moderation.
Avoid:
- Canned beets with added salt.
- Seasoned beets with sauces or spices.
- Large, uncut beet chunks.
- Pickled beets.
Talk to your vet before feeding your dog beets if they have an existing health condition.
What Are the Benefits of Beets for Dogs?
Beets contain fiber, vitamin C, potassium, manganese, folate, magnesium, iron, zinc, and calcium. These vitamins and minerals contribute to healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall health. Fiber supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
Beets contain antioxidants that help protect cells from free radicals. Free radicals are harmful compounds that can damage cells. Antioxidants also strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation.
Nutritional Breakdown
|
Nutrient |
(Per 100g) |
Benefit for Dogs |
|
Fiber |
3.1g |
Supports healthy digestion and stool consistency |
|
Vitamin C |
4.6mg |
Aids the immune system and protects healthy cells |
|
Folate |
103µg |
Cell repair and healthy red blood cell production |
|
Potassium |
342mg |
Strong muscles, a healthy heart, and nerve function |
|
Manganese |
0.257mg |
Bone development, enzyme function, and metabolism |
|
Iron |
0.43mg |
Oxygen transport, energy levels, and coat health |
|
Magnesium |
21mg |
Muscle recovery, nerve function, and strong bones |
Beet Greens vs. Beetroot vs. Beet Juice
Beetroot
Beetroot is safe for most healthy adult dogs when served in moderation. You can serve it raw and mashed, lightly steamed, or boiled. Do not add seasonings. Avoid pickled or canned beets because they often contain salt, vinegar, or preservatives.
Beetroot contains oxalates. These compounds can bind with calcium and contribute to stone formation. Dogs with kidney disease or a history of urinary stones should only eat beets under veterinary guidance.
Beet Greens
Beet greens are the leafy tops of the beet plant. They provide calcium, iron, and vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin A helps support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Beet greens also contain more oxalates than the root, so serve smaller portions. Steam or blanch them, then chop into small pieces.
Beet Juice
Beet juice is not the best option for dogs. It contains concentrated sugars and oxalates and may cause digestive upset or loose stools.
How Can You Safely Serve Beets to Dogs?
1. Only Feed Your Dog Organic Beets
Organic beets reduce your dog's exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals. This makes them a safer choice. Organic farming is also more sustainable. It protects soil health and keeps chemicals out of the environment.
2. Always Wash the Beets Before Giving Them to Your Dog
Wash beets thoroughly before serving them to your dog. Dirt, germs, and pesticide residue can remain on the surface during growing, handling, and transportation. A quick rinse helps remove these contaminants and makes beets safer to eat.
3. Do Not Add Seasonings
Serve beets plain and unseasoned. Seasonings, sauces, and spices can upset your dog's stomach. Some ingredients may also be harmful to dogs.
4. Feed Beets in Moderation
Feed beets as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement. Treats and other extra foods should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. The remaining 90% should come from a complete and balanced diet.
What Are the Best Ways to Prepare Beets for Dogs?
Cut beets into bite-sized pieces before serving them to your dog. Large chunks can create a choking hazard, especially for small dogs. Raw beets are harder to chew and digest. If you feed raw beets, grate, mash, or purée them first.
You can also mix beet purée into their regular food. This works well for dogs that resist new textures and for senior dogs with dental issues. Steaming beets for 10-15 minutes until fork-tender is another option. Let them cool completely before serving. Do not add butter or oil.
Freeze-dried and dehydrated beets are a good alternative to fresh beets. Choose single-ingredient options with no added salt or flavoring. Beet-based dog treats also offer a convenient option. Wild Earth's Strawberry & Beet Superfood Treats come ready to serve.
Weight-Based Serving Size
|
Dog Size |
Weight Range |
Max Serving |
Frequency |
|
Small |
21–30 lbs |
2–4 teaspoons purée |
2–3× per week |
|
Medium |
31–50 lbs |
1–2 tablespoons purée |
2–3× per week |
|
Large |
50+ lbs |
2–4 tablespoons purée |
2–3× per week |
When Should Dogs Avoid Beets?
Most dogs can enjoy beets in moderation. However, some dogs should avoid them or only eat them under veterinary guidance:
- Dogs With Kidney Disease or Chronic Kidney Failure: Beets contain oxalates, which can place additional strain on damaged kidneys.
- Dogs With a History of Bladder Stones: Oxalates can bind with calcium and contribute to the formation of bladder stones. Feeding beets may increase the risk of recurrence in dogs prone to these stones.
- Dogs on Potassium-Restricted Diets: Beets are high in potassium. Extra potassium may interfere with diets designed to manage certain kidney conditions.
- Dogs With Diabetes or Blood Sugar Concerns: Beets contain natural sugars that can raise blood sugar levels.
- Dogs With Diarrhea or Vomiting: Beets contain fiber, which can be helpful for healthy dogs. However, extra fiber may worsen active digestive upset and lead to more discomfort.
- Puppies and Dogs With Existing Health Conditions: Talk to your veterinarian before introducing beets or any new food. Puppies and dogs with special dietary needs may require a different feeding approach.
FAQs About Beets
How Many Beets Can a Dog Eat?
Dogs should only eat beets in small amounts. Follow the serving size guidelines above and keep treats and extra foods under 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Beets?
Only if they contain no added salt, sugar, preservatives, or seasonings. Fresh beets are usually the better option.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Beets?
Yes. Cut them into small pieces and grate, mash, or purée them. Raw beets can be harder to chew and digest than cooked beets.
Can Dogs Eat Beet Pulp?
Yes. Beet pulp often appears in dog food as a source of fiber. It can help support healthy digestion when included as part of a balanced diet.
Can Dogs Eat Roasted Beets?
Yes. Roast them plain and let them cool before serving. Do not add oil, butter, salt, or seasonings.
Can Puppies Eat Beets?
Puppies can eat small amounts of properly prepared beets. Talk to your veterinarian before introducing beets or any new food. Puppies may be more sensitive to dietary changes because their digestive systems are still developing.
Are Beets Good for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs?
It depends. Some dogs tolerate beets well, while others may experience gas, loose stools, or digestive upset. Start with a small amount and monitor your dog closely.
Why Does My Dog's Urine or Stool Turn Red After Eating Beets?
Beets contain natural pigments that can turn urine or stool pink or red. This is usually harmless and should disappear within a day or two.
Consult Your Vet Before Feeding New Foods
Talk to your veterinarian before adding beets or any new food to your dog's diet. This is especially important if your dog has existing health conditions or special dietary needs.