Golden beets are a variety of beetroot that have a vibrant golden orange color. Beets are packed with nutrients like folate, manganese, potassium, and vitamin C. This has led some pet owners to wonder – can I give my dog golden beets?
Are Beets Safe For Dogs?
The short answer is yes, beets are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Both golden and red beets are non-toxic to dogs.
Beets contain compounds called betalains which give them their rich, earthy colors. Betalains provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxification support in the body. This makes beets a nutritious treat for dogs.
However, there are some things to keep in mind when feeding beets to dogs:
Sugar Content
Beets have a relatively high sugar content. Consuming too much can lead to weight gain, gastrointestinal upset, and an increased risk of diabetes. It’s important to feed beets to dogs sparingly as an occasional treat.
Oxalates
Beets contain oxalate crystals which may cause minor irritation in a dog’s mouth or esophagus. Oxalates can also inhibit calcium absorption. Dogs with a history of bladder stones may want to avoid beets.
Allergies
Some dogs may be allergic to beets. Discontinue feeding if you notice any signs of allergy like itching, hives, swelling, vomiting, or diarrhea after consuming beets.
As long as they are fed in moderation, most healthy dogs can enjoy golden and red beets safely. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any adverse reactions.
Nutritional Value of Golden Beets
So what makes golden beets so nutritious for dogs? Here’s an overview of the main nutrients:
Vitamin C
Golden beets are a great source of immune-boosting vitamin C. One cup contains over 6 mg, meeting around 10% of a dog’s daily needs. Vitamin C supports collagen production, wound healing, and protects cells from damage.
Folate
Beets provide a significant amount of folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate helps form red and white blood cells in the body. It’s also important for cardiovascular health.
Manganese
Manganese supports bone development, metabolism, and antioxidant defenses. Dogs only need trace amounts which beets can provide.
Potassium
With over 500 mg per cup, beets are high in potassium. This essential mineral is needed for muscle and nerve function, fluid balance, and controlling blood pressure.
Overall, the nutrient profile of golden beets makes them a great occasional treat for dogs. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants support whole body health.
Are Cooked or Raw Beets Better for Dogs?
Both raw and cooked beets are safe for dogs. Cooking beets may make them easier to digest.
Raw beets are very dense and fibrous. Some dogs may have difficulty properly chewing and digesting them. Lightly steaming or roasting beets can soften them up.
Cooking also enhances the bioavailability of certain nutrients in beets. Heat breaks down cell walls, allowing the body to better absorb compounds like betaine and iron.
However, cooking beets reduces their vitamin C content. Light cooking for a short time will help preserve vitamin C levels better than prolonged boiling or roasting.
For maximum nutrition, giving your dog a combination of both raw and cooked beets is ideal. Introduce new foods slowly in case of digestive upset.
Tips for Preparing Beets for Dogs
When preparing beets for your dog, keep these tips in mind:
– Wash thoroughly to remove dirt and debris
– Trim ends and peel off skin
– Grate raw or slice thinly to aid digestion
– Lightly steam or roast at low temperatures to soften
– Let cool before serving to your dog
Cut beets into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. Dogs may gulp down large chunks. Monitor your dog the first few times to make sure they are chewing properly.
What Parts of Beets Can Dogs Eat?
Both the beetroot and beet greens are safe and nutritious for dogs to eat. Let’s compare the nutritional benefits of each part:
Beetroot
This refers to the vividly colored beet bulb. As discussed earlier, beetroot is packed with vitamin C, folate, manganese and more. It also contains plant pigments called betalains.
Beetroot has a higher concentration of nutrients and antioxidants compared to the leafy greens. It provides the most nutritional value for dogs.
Beet Greens
The edible leaves attached to the beetroot are also safe for dogs to eat. Beet greens are very nutritious, containing calcium, iron, vitamins A, C, K and fiber.
However, beet greens also contain higher concentrations of oxalates. Too much oxalic acid can inhibit calcium absorption. Feed beet greens in moderation to avoid this.
Both parts of the beet provide great nutritional benefits for dogs. Mix up offering your dog beetroot and beet greens for variety.
Benefits of Golden Beets for Dogs
Here’s a closer look at some of the top health benefits beets offer dogs:
Boost Exercise Endurance
Beets contain nitrates that can improve oxygen circulation in the body. One study found dogs fed beets had more sustainable energy during hunting exercises. The nitrates likely helped improve stamina.
Support Digestion
The fiber content in beets may promote digestive regularity in dogs. Soluble fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria which support healthy digestion. Beets also provide prebiotics which boost probiotics.
Promote Heart Health
Beets contain a compound called betaine. Studies show betaine supplements reduced risk factors for heart disease in dogs, like elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. Beets’ nutrients also support circulation.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation can accelerate aging and disease in dogs. The betalains found in beets have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight inflammation.
When fed in moderation, golden beets can be a healthy, nutrient-dense snack for dogs. Consult your vet before introducing new foods if your dog has any underlying conditions.
How to Serve Beets to Dogs
There are many ways to incorporate beets into your dog’s diet. Here are some simple serving ideas:
Fresh Beets
Dice or shred raw beets and mix into your dog’s regular meals. Start with a small amount, around 1-2 tablespoons per meal.
Roasted Beets
Lightly roast beet pieces at 350°F until just fork-tender. Let cool and serve as treats. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness.
Toppings
Grate or finely chop beets. Use as a nutritious topping over your dog’s kibble, cooked meat, cottage cheese, or yogurt.
Purees
Blend cooked beets with water or low-sodium broth to make a smooth puree. Mix into kibble or pour over meat.
Iced Treats
Puree cooked beets and freeze in an ice cube tray for a cool summertime lickable treat. Great for teething puppies.
Vary the ways you serve beets to keep your dog interested. Monitor portion sizes and start slowly with new ingredients.
What is the Best Way to Feed Beets?
Here are some tips for safely incorporating beets into your dog’s diet:
– Start with small amounts, around 1-2 tablespoons per meal
– Mix with kibble or meat to avoid stomach upset
– Only serve 1-2 times per week as a treat
– Thoroughly wash raw beets before serving
– Lightly cook for easier digestion
– Introduce slowly over the course of a week
– Discontinue use if any allergic reaction is observed
– Avoid giving beet juice or sugar due to high concentrations
– Consult your vet first if your dog has diabetes or kidney issues
Moderation is key when feeding beets to dogs. Though packed with nutrients, too much can lead to GI problems, oxalate stones, and weight gain in dogs. Follow suggested serving guidelines and monitor your dog’s reaction.
Are There Any Risks or Precautions?
Beets are non-toxic and safe for most healthy dogs in moderation. However, there are some precautions to be aware of:
May Cause Allergies
Some dogs may be allergic to beets. Discontinue feeding if you notice any signs of allergic reaction.
High in Oxalates
The oxalic acid in beet greens can hinder calcium absorption. Dogs prone to bladder stones may want to avoid beets.
High Sugar Content
Too much can cause weight gain and other problems. Limit beet treats for diabetic dogs or those prone to pancreatitis.
Choking Hazard
Cut beets into small pieces. Don’t feed whole chunks which could present a choking risk.
GI Upset
Excess beet consumption can lead to soft stools or diarrhea in some dogs. Introduce slowly.
Talk to your vet before feeding beets, especially if your dog has any pre-existing conditions or sensitivities. Start small to assess tolerance.
Golden Beet Recipe Ideas for Dogs
Once you’ve introduced beets safely, try out these tasty golden beet recipes for your dog:
Golden Beet and Carrot Bake
Ingredients:
– 2 small golden beets, peeled and grated
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 tbsp coconut oil
– 1⁄4 cup cooked chicken, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss grated beets and carrots with coconut oil. Spread on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 12-15 minutes until softened. Let cool.
4. Mix with diced chicken and serve.
This simple bake brings out the natural sweetness of beets and carrots for a tasty treat. The coconut oil aids digestion while the chicken provides added protein.
Beet, Blueberry, and Banana Soft Serve
Ingredients:
– 1 small cooked golden beet, chopped
– 1 frozen banana
– 1⁄4 cup frozen blueberries
– 1 tbsp plain yogurt
– 1⁄2 cup water
Instructions:
1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.
2. Spoon into ice cube trays or popsicle molds. Freeze 2-3 hours until set.
3. Pop out frozen beet soft serve cubes for your dog to enjoy.
This antioxidant-rich recipe mixes the earthy beet with sweet fruits and yogurt. It makes a nutritious frozen snack perfect for hot days. Adjust water to reach desired consistency.
Beet and Sweet Potato Soup
Ingredients:
– 1 large golden beet, peeled and chopped
– 1 small sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1⁄4 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring chopped beet and sweet potato to a boil in broth. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes until veggies are tender.
2. Transfer to a blender. Puree until smooth.
3. Mix in shredded chicken. Let cool before serving to dog.
Whip up this simple soup to take advantage of beets and sweet potatoes. The chicken adds protein while the veggies provide vitamin C and fiber. Adjust broth to reach desired consistency.
Golden Beets FAQ
Still have some questions about feeding golden beets to dogs? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How much is too much beet for a dog?
For a medium size dog, limit beet treats to around 1-3 tablespoons a few times per week. Too much can upset their stomach. Speak to your vet for personalized serving guidelines.
Can puppies eat beets?
Yes, puppies can eat small amounts of cooked, shredded beets as an occasional treat starting around 12 weeks old. Introduce new foods slowly.
Should dogs eat beets everyday?
No, beets should be fed in moderation 1-2 times per week at most. Too much beet consumption can lead to GI issues in dogs due to their sugar and oxalate content.
Can diabetic dogs eat beets?
Dogs with diabetes should avoid beets due to their high sugar content. Speak with your vet first about introducing beets safely.
Are pickled beets bad for dogs?
Yes, avoid feeding dogs pickled beets. The high salt content can cause stomach upset and sodium toxicity. Only serve your dog plain, low-sodium cooked beets.
The Bottom Line
Golden beets make a nutritious, pet-safe snack when fed occasionally and in moderation. Their nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, manganese support whole body health. Lightly steam or roast beets to increase digestibility.
Monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing new foods. Only feed beet treats 1-2 times per week. Avoid beet juice or pickled varieties.Speak with your vet before feeding beets if your dog has any underlying conditions.
Used safely and in moderation, vibrant golden beets can be a tasty way to give your dog a nutritious boost!