Are Beets Good For Dogs?

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Vegetables are a crucial part of the human diet. They are rich in healthy nutrients, and since we were children, our parents taught us the importance of including veggies in our meals. One of these healthy veggies we should eat is beets. If you are a dog owner, one thought might have crossed your mind, “Can dogs eat beets?” and the answer is - YES. However, before you start feeding beets to your dog, there are some things you should know.

Are beets safe for dogs?

All food can be dangerous if you eat too much of it. The same rule applies to dogs. Beets are safe for dogs, but only in moderation. If beets are adequately included in your dog’s diet, the dog can reap different benefits from this healthy vegetable. Some of the best nutrients beets contain are;

• Vitamin C - Vitamin C is the most popular vitamin of all. Most of us are aware of the benefits it offers our dogs and us. It is crucial for growing, repairing, and maintaining all body tissue. It helps the body absorb iron and form collagen.
• Fiber - Dietary fiber is crucial for healthy digestion. It can help dogs with diarrhea because it will add bulk to the stool and soak up excess moisture.
• Folate - Folate, or vitamin B-9, plays a crucial role in the dog’s body. It helps the body form red blood cells and is necessary for healthy cell functioning. It is one of the most essential nutrients during early pregnancy.
• Manganese - Manganese plays a part in the metabolism of amino acids, glucose, carbs, and cholesterol. Dogs need it in traces, and beets are a great way of including some manganese in your dog’s diet.
• Potassium - Bananas are usually associated with potassium, but beets are packed with it as well. It is a vital mineral in the dog’s body that helps with nerve functions, muscle reactions, fluid balance and reduces blood pressure.

How to safely feed beets to my dog?

Beets are not usually included in a dog’s diet, so make sure you don’t overfeed your dog on beets. Too many beets can cause stomach issues, so make sure you practice portion control. Before you feed your dog beets, make sure you check if your dog can have beets. Give them a tiny amount and see how they react. Your dog might not like the taste, and even though chances of allergies are slim, they can happen. Watch for allergic reactions for 24 hours after giving your dog a small amount of beetroot.

If you can, always get organic beets. Not only is it a better option for your dog, but it is also a better option for you. Avoid vegetables treated with pesticides and other harmful chemicals. You can give raw beets to your dog, or you can give it to them cooked. In either case, you should avoid adding any seasoning. Dogs have delicate sodium levels, so you should never give your dog salty foods.

Another thing you can do for your dog to make beets digestion easier on their stomachs is cutting the beets into small pieces. Even better, you can puree the beets and mix them with the dog’s usual meal. Large chunks of raw beets can be challenging to digest, so make it easier for your dog to reap all the benefits and avoid getting an upset stomach.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Never feed your dog pickled or canned beets. Pickled beets contain unhealthy seasoning for dogs, and canned beets contain large amounts of salt and preservatives.

Can beets be bad for dogs?

If you give controlled portions to your dog, there is no reason they can’t safely have beets. However, some dogs manage to get their paws on beets when their owners are not looking. If that happens, chances are your dog will get an upset stomach. Beet poisoning is not a thing, but eating too many beets will upset the dog’s stomach. The dog might vomit, get diarrhea, or experience stomach pains. Some dogs might get constipated if they swallowed large chunks of beets. In most cases, the issues will pass within 24 hours.

In conclusion

Beets can be very beneficial for dogs, especially if they are properly fed to them. Beets are packed with healthy nutrients, and if someone asks you, “Can dogs have beets?” you can confidently answer - YES. Keep the dog’s beets portions controlled and make sure your dog doesn’t overeat on beets.

World Dog Finder team