July 2, 2025, 4:07 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Whether cooked, in smoothies, or salads–beets have become a staple in health-conscious kitchens. The deep red root is said to have numerous health benefits. But is it suitable for dogs? PETBOOK, along with Philine Ebert, a canine nutrition expert, explores whether beets can be added to your dog’s bowl.
Beets are undeniably among the local superfoods. They are rich in iron and folic acid, which support blood formation, among other things. The dark red root is also said to be beneficial for the cardiovascular system and the immune system. However, if dogs are to partake, there are a few things to consider.
Overview
Can Dogs Eat Beets?
Beets are generally allowed for dogs–but only in moderation and properly prepared. The root should be thoroughly washed and can be fed raw or cooked. It can also be pureed or finely chopped to mix well with food.
Nutrition expert Philine Ebert categorizes the root as follows: “Beets are a vegetable that brings colorful variety to the dog bowl while providing many essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This healthy superfood has antioxidant properties and contributes to improving heart health, strengthening the immune system, promoting digestion, supporting blood formation, enhancing blood circulation, and strengthening the liver.”
Things to Keep in Mind
Not every dog tolerates the root vegetable equally well. Beets contain oxalic acid, which can hinder the absorption of iron and calcium. Caution is advised for dogs with kidney problems or urinary stones. Although cooking reduces the oxalic acid content, valuable nutrients are also lost in the process.
Dogs with urinary stones or kidney issues should only be given beets after consulting a veterinarian, as they can potentially increase the risk of urinary stones. Oxalic acid is also present in other vegetables, such as spinach, Swiss chard, and sweet potatoes. It’s important to follow feeding recommendations for these as well. Since the root contains natural sugar, restraint is advised for overweight animals or those prone to diabetes.
How to Feed Beets Properly
Beets, whether pureed or diced, should never replace regular meals but serve only as an occasional supplement. Pickled beets should be left to humans, as they often contain additional ingredients like sugar, vinegar, or spices. Note: It is possible for stool and urine to turn reddish after consumption, but this is no cause for concern.
Nutrients Found in Beets
Beets stand out for their vitamin and mineral content. 100 grams contain:1
- 407 mg potassium
- 17 mg calcium
- 21 mg magnesium
- 0.9 mg iron
- 58 mg sodium
- 0.3 mg zinc
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Folic acid
- 2.8 g fiber
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Other Healthy Vegetables
In addition to beets, there are other vegetables that can be given to dogs as a supplement to regular food. Carrots are particularly well-tolerated and are often fed in the form of Moro’s carrot soup for diarrhea or other gastrointestinal issues. These other vegetables are also suitable for feeding:
- cooked potatoes
- broccoli
- fennel
- celery
- kohlrabi
- parsnips