Beets are a popular choice in many households, and these deliciously sweet root vegetables are packed full of health benefits for humans. But does this apply to our furry best friends too? Can dogs eat beets?
Can dogs eat beets?
Yes, dogs can eat beets, and they provide many health benefits to dogs. When prepared correctly and fed in moderation, beets can be a delicious and healthy snack for your canine buddy!
However, some precautions must be taken when feeding beets to dogs. If you follow these guidelines, beets are a healthy treat that can help to satisfy your dog’s appetite.
What are the health benefits of beets?
Beets are packed full of fiber, which helps to maintain the health of your dog’s digestive system and also satisfies hunger. The high carbohydrate and sugar content makes them a great energy-boosting snack after intense physical exercise.
Beets are also high in vitamin C, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The pigments in red beets also help to reduce inflammation and improve immunity.
Feeding beets to your dog will also provide an additional source of potassium, folate, and magnesium. Your dog should get all the nutrients they need from its regular dog food, but by selecting healthy treats such as beets you can provide them with a little extra.
What should I be aware of when offering beets to my dog?
In certain situations, it is not a good idea to feed beets to dogs. They are high in oxalic acid which can form bladder stones and cause calcium deficiency. Beets should never be given to dogs with a history of urinary or kidney disease, or skeletal problems such as osteoporosis.
Beets are also very energy-dense, with high levels of carbohydrates and sugar. This can lead to obesity, and they should not be fed to dogs that are overweight or on a calorie-controlled diet. The sugar content can also be problematic for dogs that suffer from pancreatitis or diabetes.
This nutritious vegetable can be fed to your dog either cooked or raw, but it must be peeled and cut into bite-size pieces to limit the risk of choking. Avoid canned beets as they often contain high levels of added salt.
Last but not the least, too many beets can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. Stick to just a small amount as a treat to avoid unpleasant digestive problems.
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