Yes, beets tend to be healthy vegetables for dogs to eat. And believe it or not, some dogs literally crave the taste of beets. People feed their dogs all kinds of things besides canned dog food or kibble to keep their dogs healthy, and many vets get inquiries about feeding their dogs beets. In the wild, animals tend to know instinctively which type of food they would prefer besides beef or chicken, and so giving your dog beets may be a smart move.
What are the Good Things in Beets?
Beets are full of antioxidants and also have plenty of vitamin C, folate, fiber,
manganese, and potassium, and they are relatively low in calories. As a consequence, beats are an ideal treat to give your dog occasionally to mix things up in his or her diet.
Beet Cautions
That said, you do not want to give your dog beets too often, and because of the high salt concentration, never give your dog canned beets.
One of the reasons that vets such as Doctor Stephanie Flansburg Cruz caution dog owners not to give too much beet to their dogs is in a little-known effect called Oxalic Acid. Beets have plenty of Oxalic Acid and can wreak havoc with dogs who are prone to getting kidney or bladder stones.
In addition, beets are quite acidic and may not sit well in your dog’s stomach. For this reason, vets such as Dr. Flansburg Cruz recommend giving your dog beets only occasionally.
Also, like in all new foods for your dog, watch the first time around for allergies. It is not likely that your dog will have a beet reaction, but just as a precaution, be vigilant at first.
How to Add Beets or Beetroot to Your Dog’s Diet
Dogs can eat beets or beetroot, either raw or cooked. Just chop up a little beetroot and add it to your dog’s bowl, or sprinkle it as a garnish on your dog’s wet food. Many people prefer to cook their beets, and this is one food that you and your dog can share together (though hopefully not in the same bowl.
Do you Know?
Beets are a nice side dish when you serve pork. But what about that kind of meat for dogs? Can Dogs Eat Pork?
The Bottom Line About Can Dogs Eat Beets?
In moderation, almost all vets agree that Beets are a great addition to your dog’s diet. They have a ton of vitamins and antioxidants that will help your dog be healthier, and side effects are rare. Just go slow, and try a little at a time. Another pleasant benefit is that beets and beetroot are relatively cheap, and most dogs take to it from their first bite.
