As a pet owner, you always want to provide your furry friend with the best possible nutrition.
You may have come across various types of vegetables, including beets, and wondered if they are safe for your furry friend to eat.
Beets offer a range of health benefits for humans, but the question is – can dogs eat beets?
In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits and potential risks of feeding your dog beets, so you can make an informed decision about whether to add them to your dog’s diet.
Can Dogs Eat Beets?
Yes, dogs can eat both raw and cooked beets, although it is recommended to cook them for easier chewing.
Beets are a great addition to a dog’s diet in moderation and provide them with beneficial micronutrients. Beets are safe for dogs to eat and provide them with vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese, and potassium.
However, canned beets should be avoided as they tend to come soaked in sodium and preservatives which can be bad for your pup’s stomach.
Overall, beets are a healthy vegetable for your pup that should be served in moderation.
If you’re looking to add some variety to your pup’s diet or just want to give them a tasty treat every now and then, adding some cooked beets is a great option!
See also: 47 Safe Vegetables To Feed Your Dog. Puppy Power!
How Many Beets Can Dogs Eat?
As a general guideline, dogs can safely eat a few slices of cooked or raw beets as an occasional treat.
When introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, it is important to do so gradually and in moderation to avoid any digestive issues. This applies to beets as well.
It’s also important to consider your dog’s size and health conditions. Larger dogs may be able to eat a few more slices than smaller dogs, while dogs with certain health conditions such as diabetes may need to avoid beets due to their natural sugar content.
One thing to keep in mind is that beet can turn your dog’s feces reddish, which can be alarming but is not a cause for concern.
Overall, when feeding your dog beets, it’s important to use moderation and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about their diet.
Beets Feeding Chart According To Size
| Food | Size | Portion |
|---|---|---|
| Beets | Toy dogs | 1 slice |
| Beets | Small dogs | 2 slices |
| Beets | Medium dogs | 2-3 slices |
| Beets | Large Dogs | 3-4 slices |
Beets Feeding Chart According To Age
| Food | Age | Portion |
|---|---|---|
| Beets | 0 – 6 months | Don’t feed |
| Beets | 6 – 12 months | 1 slice |
| Beets | 12 – 24 months | 2-3 slices |
| Beets | 24+ months | 3-4 slices |
How Often Can Dogs Eat Beets
Dogs can eat beets occasionally as a healthy treat, but they should not make up the bulk of your dog’s diet.
A few cooked or raw beet slices once or twice a week is a great way to add some variety and micronutrients to your dog’s diet, but should not be fed to your dog every day.
It’s important to remember that commercial dog food is specifically formulated to meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs, so beets should not be viewed as a replacement for a balanced diet.
Additionally, if your dog has a medical condition or is on a special diet, be sure to check with your veterinarian before adding any new food to their diet.
In summary, including beets as an occasional treat in your dog’s diet can offer a range of health benefits, but feeding them too frequently can cause digestive problems.
As with any new food, start with a small amount and monitor your dog’s reaction to ensure they tolerate it well.
Health Benefits of Beets To Dogs
- Lowers Blood Pressure. Beets are high in nitrates which convert to nitric oxide in the body, relaxing and dilating blood vessels. This can help regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
- Boosts Immunity. Beets are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system. By boosting immunity, beets can help your dog fight off disease and infection.
- Improves Digestion. Beets contain both soluble and insoluble fiber which helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation. This is particularly useful for dogs on a kibble-dominant diet.
- Anti-Inflammatory. Beets are packed with betalain, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body. This can help reduce joint pain and inflammation in dogs with arthritis.
- Detoxifying. Beets help to detoxify the liver by purifying the blood and eliminating toxins. This can help prevent liver damage and slow down the aging process of the liver.
Potential Risks of Feeding Beets To Dogs
- Can Cause Gastrointestinal Upset. While beets are generally safe for dogs, consuming too much can cause gastrointestinal upset. This can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation.
- Contains Sugar. Beets are naturally sweet and contain a fair amount of sugar. While this is not necessarily harmful, feeding your dog too many sugary foods can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, or diabetes.
- Risk of Oxalate Stones. Beets contain high levels of oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of bladder or kidney stones in some dogs. If your dog is prone to urinary tract issues, it’s best to avoid feeding them high-oxalate foods like beets.
- Can Turn Stools Red. A harmless but potentially alarming side effect of feeding beets to dogs is that it can turn their stool red. This is completely normal and not a cause for concern, but it’s good to be aware of it in case you notice red stools.
Nutritional Benefits of Beets For Dogs
| Beets Nutrition Facts per 100 grams | % DV * |
|---|---|
| Calories | 58 |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sugar | 9.2 g |
| Glycemic Index | 61 |
| Sodium | 106 mg |
| Carbs | 13 g |
| Protein | 2.2 g |
| Vitamin D | 0% |
| Calcium | 21.76 mg |
| Iron | 1.09 mg |
| Potassium | 442 mg |
Are Dogs Sensitive To Beets?
While most dogs can safely consume beets in moderation, some dogs can be sensitive to them, just like with any food.
If your dog consumes too many beets or is sensitive to the components in beets, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset or other adverse effects like vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or bloating.
Dogs that are prone to food allergies or intolerance may be more likely to have a negative reaction to beets.
Likewise, if your dog has a history of digestive issues, feeding them beets in large quantities may exacerbate these issues.
However, sensitive dogs are the exception and not the rule, as beets are generally considered safe for most dogs. If you’re considering adding beets to your dog’s diet, always start with a small quantity and watch for any signs of an adverse reaction.
If you notice any symptoms, stop feeding your dog beets, and consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are not experiencing a more serious reaction.
How To Prepare Beets For Dogs
- Boiled or steamed. One simple way to prepare beets for your dog is to boil or steam them until they are soft and easy to digest. Boiled or steamed beets can be served diced or sliced as a healthy treat, or as an addition to your dog’s regular meals. You may also mash them, add them to your dog’s water, or dry kibble to entice them.
- Dehydrated. Another way to prepare beets for your dog is to dehydrate them. You can either purchase commercially-available dehydrated beets or make them yourself by slicing fresh beets thin and using a dehydrator or oven to dry them out. Dehydrated beets make a great chewy treat for dogs and can also be used as training treats.
- Frozen or cold. Beets can also make a refreshing summer treat for your dog when frozen or served cold. Simply freeze sliced beets or mix the beet juice with water and freeze it in ice cube trays. You can also refrigerate sliced beets in water or blend them with yogurt or other dog-friendly ingredients and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays for a cool, refreshing treat on hot days.
How Fast Will Dogs Digest Beets
The time it takes for a dog to digest beets depends on several factors, such as the dog’s size, age, and overall health.
Generally, once a dog eats beets, it can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours for their digestive system, enzymes, and gut bacteria to break them down and convert them into useful energy or waste.
However, keep in mind that beets are high in fiber, which can slow down digestion and help regulate healthy bowel movements in dogs.
This means that they can stay in a dog’s system for a bit longer than other foods, which can be beneficial for dogs with digestive issues like constipation.
FAQs
Can dogs eat beets in a can?
Yes, dogs can safely eat beets in a can. Canned beets are usually cooked and peeled already, so there is no need to worry about any potential dangers from the skins or cooking process.
Can dogs eat beets with vinegar?
Yes, dogs can eat beets with vinegar. Beets are a great source of vitamins and minerals for your pup, but you should always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food into their diet.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, beets are a healthy vegetable for humans due to their high nutritional value. However, when it comes to dogs, it’s best to introduce them gradually and in moderation to avoid any potential digestive issues.
While beets contain a variety of vitamins and minerals that can benefit your dog’s health, it’s important to remember that they are not a replacement for a balanced commercial dog food that meets all of your pet’s nutritional needs.
Always consult with your veterinarian before including any new food in your dog’s diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their unique needs.
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