can dogs eat beets

Can Dogs Eat Beets? Health Benefits, Nutrition, & Tips

Can Dogs Eat Beets? Health Benefits, Nutrition, & Tips

Vegetables are an important part of our diet. It's difficult to deny the health benefits of eating beets for people – they're low in calories but high in key nutrients that lead to a healthy life. So it's natural for any dog owner to question if their dog can reap the same benefits. But can dogs eat beets? Are beets safe for dogs?

Yes - in moderation, beets are safe for your dog to consume and are high in vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals are beneficial to your dog's digestion, immune system, skin and coat. While it is uncommon, some dogs may be allergic. If you decide to feed your dog beets, keep an eye on him for signs of an allergic reaction.

freshly harvested beets

Health Benefits of Beets For Dogs

There are various advantages to including beets in your dog's diet. Moderation is essential when it comes to foods that are not normally fed to your dog. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing any food into your dog's diet. Nutritional advantages include:

Iron Content

Beets are high in iron, which is important for dogs, especially those who suffer from anemia. Iron aids in the transport of oxygen to their blood cells and physiological activities.

Fiber Levels

Dogs should have between 1% and 10% fiber with each meal. This nutrient is beneficial to the digestive tract and intestinal health. It adds weight to their excrement and aids in its passage through the digestive tract.

Vitamins & Minerals

Beets, particularly beet tops, include a variety of vitamins and minerals that can aid in the immune system, control pH balance, and even strengthen their fur and skin.

Low Calorie Content

Aside from the nutritional benefits listed above, some other essential benefits may be useful. First and foremost, beets are minimal in calories. This makes them an excellent reward for dogs that need to lose a few pounds.

dog begging for a piece of beet

Potential Health Concerns Of Beets For Dogs

In moderation, beets are beneficial to dogs. They do, however, contain sugar, a simple carbohydrate that canines find difficult to digest. Though uncommon, the following difficulties should be considered when adding beets to your dog's diet.

Red beets contain far too much sugar for a dog to consume in big quantities. Beets can contribute to obesity or even pancreatitis. Sugar concentration is higher in beet juice, which you should never offer to your dog. Beets naturally contain oxalate, which causes kidney and bladder stones in dogs if consumed frequently.

Dogs acquire the most nutrition from meat. Always feed your dog proper dog food, which is made to offer the nutrition your dog requires to live a long and healthy life. Consider beets a unique dog treat, not a replacement for a healthy canine diet.

How To Safely Feed Your Dog Beets

Beets are safe to feed to dogs and provide various nutritional benefits. They can be used as a nutritious treat for a dog who is looking for some variety. Dog owners can safely feed their dogs small bits of beets, either combined with dog food or on their own. Below are different types of beets and their effect on your furry friend.

Cooked Beets

Because they are easy to chew, cooked beets — either roasted or steamed — are the finest option. Choose pesticide-free organic beets wherever possible. Cooked beets retain all of their nutritional benefits even after cooking.

Raw Beets

Fresh, raw beets can also be used, but they must be sliced into extremely little pieces to avoid becoming a choking danger. You can also feed your dog beet greens, which include a significant portion of the nutritional benefits of this root vegetable.

Canned Beets

Canned beets are high in sodium and preservatives, both of which are terrible for your dog's stomach. Seasonings in pickled canned beets can potentially be problematic. Avoid giving your dog any canned vegetables, especially canned beets.

sliced beets on cutting board

Review: Can Dogs Eat Beets?

Beets provide nutritional benefits to both humans and dogs. As a result, a small amount of beets can be included in a dog's diet. Vitamin C, folate, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and dietary fiber are all important minerals in beets.

In the end, beets are safe to provide to your dog as long as they are consumed in moderation. Adding a small quantity of this red root to your dog's meal once or twice a week is a terrific way to add taste and nutrients to your dog's diet.

This veggie makes an excellent treat or snack. It is better than some of the store-bought options as it will have less salt, sugar, and processed ingredients. Overall, as long as you don't overdo it, beets are healthy for your pet to consume. If you do let your dog eat beets and he experiences a negative reaction, consult your veterinarian as dogs can be allergic to beets.

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