Yes, dogs can eat beetroot. It is non-toxic to dogs and, fed in small amounts, can be a nutritious addition to their diet. Beetroot contains fibre, folate, manganese, and antioxidants. Always serve it plain -cooked or raw -without salt, vinegar, or seasonings, and keep portions modest to avoid digestive upset.
Key Takeaways
Beetroot is safe for dogs in small quantities and is not toxic.
- It provides fibre, folate, manganese, vitamin C, and natural antioxidants.
- Serve it plain: no salt, vinegar, pickling liquid, or added flavourings.
- Too much can cause loose stools or temporarily turn your dog's urine and faeces pink -this is harmless.
- Dogs with kidney issues should avoid beetroot due to its oxalate content; speak to your vet if you're unsure.
Is Beetroot Safe for Dogs?
Beetroot is safe for dogs. It does not appear on any recognised list of foods toxic to dogs, including guidance published by UK Pet Food, the leading industry body for pet food standards in the United Kingdom.
That said, "safe" is not the same as "feed freely." Beetroot is relatively high in natural sugars compared to many vegetables, and the oxalic acid it contains can contribute to urinary oxalate crystals in dogs that are already prone to them. For the vast majority of healthy dogs, a small amount fed occasionally is perfectly fine -but if your dog has kidney disease or a history of bladder stones, check with your vet before offering it.
What Nutritional Benefits Does Beetroot Have for Dogs?
Beetroot offers a reasonable range of micronutrients that can complement a balanced diet:
|
Nutrient |
Why It Matters |
|
Fibre |
Supports healthy gut function and digestion |
|
Folate (Vitamin B9) |
Important for cell function and DNA synthesis |
|
Manganese |
Contributes to bone development and metabolism |
|
Vitamin C |
An antioxidant that supports immune function |
|
Potassium |
Helps maintain healthy muscle and nerve function |
|
Betalain pigments |
Natural plant antioxidants that give beetroot its deep colour |
It is worth noting that dogs synthesise their own Vitamin C, so they do not depend on dietary sources the way humans do. The fibre content is probably the most practically useful aspect of beetroot for dogs -beneficial for gut health when given in appropriate amounts.
FEDIAF (the European Pet Food Industry Federation) guidelines emphasise that complete and balanced commercial dog food should already meet all a dog's nutritional needs. Treats and extras like beetroot should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.
How Much Beetroot Can I Give My Dog?
Less is more. Beetroot should be an occasional treat, not a regular meal addition.
A rough guide by dog size:
|
Dog Size |
Suggested Amount |
|
Small (under 10 kg) |
1–2 thin slices or a teaspoon of cooked beetroot |
|
Medium (10–25 kg) |
2–3 slices or a tablespoon |
|
Large (over 25 kg) |
Up to two tablespoons |
Start with a smaller amount than listed above the first time you offer it, particularly if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Watch for any signs of loose stools over the following 24 hours. If there are no issues, you can offer it again in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Beetroot?
Yes, dogs can eat raw beetroot, though it must be prepared properly. Raw beetroot is quite hard and dense, so it should always be cut into small pieces to avoid any risk of choking. Grated raw beetroot is a good option, especially for smaller dogs.
Raw beetroot retains slightly more of its water-soluble vitamins than cooked, though the difference is unlikely to be significant in the small quantities dogs eat.
Never give your dog pickled beetroot. The vinegar, salt, and sometimes added sugar in pickled versions make it unsuitable for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Beetroot?
Yes -cooked beetroot is arguably the easier option for most owners. Steaming or boiling softens the texture, making it easier to digest and reducing any choking risk.
The key rules are the same as for raw:
- No salt added during cooking
- No butter, oil, or seasoning
- No onion or garlic cooked alongside it (both are toxic to dogs)
- Allow it to cool fully before serving
Roasted beetroot that has been prepared with oil or seasoning for human consumption should not be shared with your dog. Prepare a plain portion separately if you want to offer some to them.
Why Has My Dog's Urine or Poo Gone Pink After Eating Beetroot?
This is completely harmless. The betalain pigments that give beetroot its vivid red-purple colour are not fully broken down during digestion in some individuals -the same phenomenon occurs in humans too. The technical term is beeturia.
If your dog's urine or stools have taken on a reddish or pinkish tinge after eating beetroot, there is no cause for alarm. It should pass within 24 to 48 hours. If you notice red discolouration and your dog has not eaten beetroot, however, that warrants a call to your vet.
Is Beetroot Used in Dog Food?
Yes. Beetroot pulp -a by-product of sugar beet processing -is a well-established ingredient in commercial dog food. It is a source of dietary fibre and is used to help support healthy digestion. It is different from whole beetroot: the pulp has had the juice extracted, so it is lower in sugar but retains the beneficial fibre.
Beetroot and other wholefood vegetables are increasingly featured in premium dog food recipes. The Naturo Superfoods range is one example -these recipes are formulated with natural ingredients, including plant-based additions chosen to support overall wellbeing alongside a nutritionally complete diet.
Are There Any Dogs That Should Not Eat Beetroot?
Most healthy dogs can eat small amounts of beetroot without any issue. There are a few exceptions worth knowing about:
- Dogs with kidney disease or a history of calcium oxalate bladder stones -beetroot contains oxalates, which can contribute to crystal or stone formation in susceptible dogs. Speak to your vet before offering it.
- Diabetic dogs -beetroot has a higher natural sugar content than many vegetables. It is not inherently dangerous, but it is worth discussing with your vet whether it fits your dog's dietary management plan.
- Dogs with very sensitive stomachs -the fibre content can cause loose stools if introduced too quickly or given in too large an amount. Introduce it gradually.
If your dog is on a veterinary prescription diet or has any ongoing health condition, check with your vet before adding new foods to their diet.
A Note on Complete Nutrition
Treats and toppers -however wholesome -work best alongside a nutritionally complete diet. If you are looking for dog food that incorporates natural, recognisable ingredients, the Naturo Superfoods range is worth exploring. The recipes are designed to meet your dog's full nutritional needs while featuring wholefood-inspired ingredients.
As always, if you have questions about your individual dog's diet, your vet or a registered veterinary nutritionist is the best person to advise you.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before making significant changes to your dog's diet, particularly if your dog has any underlying health conditions.
