Can Dogs Eat Beets? Complete Safety & Nutrition Guide

Quick Answer: Yes, dogs can eat beets when properly cooked and prepared, but they should be cut into small pieces and fed in moderation. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) and American Kennel Club (AKC), cooked beets are safe for dogs and provide fiber, folate, and minerals, but raw beets can be difficult to digest and may cause choking. This comprehensive guide is based on veterinary nutrition research and authoritative safety data.

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Are Beets Safe for Dogs?

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) confirms that cooked beets are safe for dogs when fed in moderation. Beets are not toxic to dogs and are sometimes recommended by veterinarians as an occasional vegetable treat.

However, raw beets can be difficult to digest and may cause choking or digestive upset. Beet greens (leaves) in large amounts may contain oxalates and should be fed sparingly. Always cook beets and cut into small pieces before feeding.

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Nutritional Value of Beets

According to the USDA FoodData Central database, one cup of cooked, sliced beets (170g) contains:

Source: USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov)

Beets are particularly beneficial because they are:

• High in fiber - Helps with digestion and promotes regularity
• Source of folate - Supports cell division
• Rich in minerals - Provides potassium, manganese, and iron
• Low in fat - Great for weight management
• Antioxidants - Contains betalains, which have antioxidant properties

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How Much Beets Can Dogs Eat?

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends following the 10% rule: treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake.

Recommended Serving Sizes

Important: These are general guidelines. Beets can cause red or pink urine (harmless) and may stain. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Frequency

Most veterinarians suggest feeding beets as an occasional treat, no more than 2-3 times per week.

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Potential Risks and Precautions

⚠️ Raw Beets (Important)

Raw beets can be difficult to digest and may cause choking. According to the ASPCA:

• Choking hazard - Raw beets are hard and can block airways
• Digestive issues - Can cause gastrointestinal upset
• Intestinal blockage - May cause obstruction if swallowed in large pieces

Always cook beets and cut into small pieces before feeding to dogs.

⚠️ Oxalates (Moderate)

Beets contain oxalates, which in large amounts can contribute to kidney stone formation in susceptible dogs. According to veterinary sources:

• Feed in moderation - Do not feed large amounts
• Dogs with kidney disease - Consult your veterinarian before feeding beets
• Beet greens - Higher in oxalates; feed sparingly or avoid

Feed only cooked beet root in small amounts; avoid large quantities of beet greens.

⚠️ Red/Pink Urine (Harmless)

Beets can cause red or pink discoloration of urine (beeturia). This is harmless and not blood. Do not be alarmed; it typically resolves within a day or two after stopping beets.

⚠️ Canned Beets (Avoid)

Canned beets often contain high sodium and should be avoided. If you use canned beets, choose no-salt-added varieties and rinse thoroughly. Fresh or plain cooked beets are preferred.

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Safe Ways to Feed Beets to Dogs

1. Cooked, Plain Beets (Preferred)

Best method: Steam or boil beets until tender, then cut into small pieces. Offer plain with no salt, butter, or seasonings. Steps:

1. Wash beets thoroughly
2. Cook until tender (steam or boil; avoid adding salt)
3. Let cool completely
4. Peel and cut into small pieces (no larger than 1/2 inch)
5. Offer 1-4 pieces as an occasional treat
6. Monitor for any adverse reactions

2. Avoid Raw, Canned (with salt), and Seasoned Beets

Never feed raw beets to dogs. Avoid canned beets with added salt. Never add garlic, onion, or other seasonings (toxic to dogs).

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When to Avoid Feeding Beets

Avoid beets if your dog:

• Has kidney disease - Oxalates may be a concern; consult your veterinarian
• Has history of bladder or kidney stones - Consult your veterinarian first
• Has digestive sensitivity - May cause upset stomach
• Is on a restricted diet for medical reasons

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can puppies eat beets?

In small amounts, yes. Cooked beets in very small amounts are generally safe for puppies. Ensure they are cut into small pieces to prevent choking. Do not replace puppy food with beets.

Can dogs eat raw beets?

Not recommended. Raw beets are hard and can cause choking or digestive upset. Always cook beets before feeding to dogs.

Can dogs eat canned beets?

Not recommended unless no-salt-added and rinsed thoroughly. Canned beets often contain high sodium, which is harmful to dogs. Fresh or plain cooked beets are preferred.

Will beets turn my dog's urine red?

Yes. Beets can cause red or pink urine (beeturia). This is harmless and not blood. It typically resolves after stopping beets.

Can dogs eat beet greens?

In very small amounts only. Beet greens contain higher levels of oxalates. It is safer to feed only the cooked beet root in moderation.

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Key Takeaways

• ✅ Generally safe (cooked, small amounts) - Not toxic when properly prepared
• ⚠️ Cook only - Raw beets can cause choking or digestive issues
• ⚠️ Moderation - Beets contain oxalates; avoid large amounts and consult vet if kidney issues
• ⚠️ No salt or seasonings - Plain only; garlic and onion are toxic to dogs
• ⚠️ Red urine - Harmless discoloration (beeturia) may occur
• ❌ Avoid canned beets with salt - High sodium is harmful to dogs

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Sources & References

1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control - "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets" - aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
2. American Kennel Club (AKC) - "Can Dogs Eat Beets?" - akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-beets
3. USDA FoodData Central - Nutritional data for beets - fdc.nal.usda.gov
4. VCA Animal Hospitals - "Oxalate Bladder Stones in Dogs" - vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/oxalate-bladder-stones-in-dogs
5. PetMD - "Can Dogs Eat Beets?" - petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-beets

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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet's diet, especially if they have kidney disease or history of stones. Last reviewed: January 2026