Can Dogs Eat Beet Greens? Are Beet Greens Safe for Dogs?

Published: 17 Mar 2025

Hey, Dog Lovers! 🐶💚

As caring pet parents, we always want the best for our furry friends. You might enjoy beets, but what about their leafy greens? 🌿 Often overlooked, beet greens are packed with nutrients—but can dogs eat beet greens safely? 🤔

The answer is YES—in moderation! In this guide, Dr. Musky Abal, a veterinarian and canine nutrition expert, will break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn whether beet greens deserve a spot in your dog’s diet, from the health benefits to potential risks. Let’s get started!

Table of Content

Beet greens are the leafy tops of the beetroot plant (Beta vulgaris). They are often called a “superfood” because they offer a powerful combination of nutrients while being low in calories.

Studies show that beet greens can be used as a nutrient-rich food source because they contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For humans, beet greens are a powerhouse of nutrition. But what about dogs?

Are Beet Greens Safe for Dogs?

Yes, beet greens are generally safe for dogs and can provide nutritional benefits when offered in moderation. They are a good source of vitamins (A, B6, B9, C, and K), minerals (manganese, phosphorus, potassium, iron, sodium, magnesium, and zinc), fibre, and antioxidants.

However, like many leafy greens, beet greens contain oxalates, which, in high amounts, can cause kidney stones. Therefore, it’s crucial to:

Offer them in moderation
Prepare them properly

Health Benefits of Beet Greens for Dogs

Beet greens can offer several health benefits for dogs.

1. Rich in Essential Vitamins

Beet greens contain vitamins A, B6, B9, C, and K, which help:

Support vision and skin health (Vitamin A)
Boost immunity and metabolism (Vitamin B6 and C)
Aid in blood clotting and bone health (Vitamin K)

2. High in Minerals for Strong Bones & Muscles

Loaded with iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, beet greens can:

Support red blood cell production (Iron)
Regulate muscle function and heart health (Potassium & Magnesium)
Strengthen bones and teeth (Phosphorus)

3. A Natural Source of Antioxidants

Beet greens are rich in antioxidants, such as betalains and carotenoids, which:

Fight free radicals and reduce inflammation
Support brain and heart health
Help slow down ageing and cell damage

4. Supports Digestion & Gut Health

Beet greens provide dietary fibre, which:

Promotes healthy digestion
Supports gut bacteria
Prevents constipation in dogs

5. Low in Calories

Beet greens are low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for dogs on a weight management plan.

Potential Risks of Feeding Beet Greens to Dogs ⚠️🐶

While beet greens offer nutritional benefits, there are some risks to consider before adding them to your dog’s diet.

1. High in Oxalates – Risk of Kidney Stones

Beet greens contain oxalates, which can:

Bind to calcium and form kidney or bladder stones in some dogs
Be problematic for dogs prone to urinary tract issues
Reduce calcium absorption, affecting bone health

2. Contains Anti-Nutritional Factors

Beet greens contain phytates and tannins, which can:

Reduce mineral absorption (e.g., calcium, iron, and zinc)
Interfere with protein digestion, potentially affecting nutrient intake
Cause digestive issues in some dogs when consumed in excess

3. Possible Digestive Upset

Some dogs may experience stomach issues after eating beet greens, such as:

Diarrhoea or vomiting, especially if fed in large amounts
Gas and bloating due to high fibre content

4. Pesticide & Contaminant Risks

If not washed properly, beet greens may carry:

Pesticide residues that can be harmful
Bacteria or dirt leading to stomach upset

Did You Know!

Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat both meat and plants. However, their digestive system is primarily designed to process animal-based proteins, so they don’t break down plant fibres as efficiently as humans do. That’s why portion control is important.

How Much Beet Greens Are Safe for Dogs? 🐶🥬

The right amount of beet greens depends on your dog’s size, health, and tolerance. Since they contain oxalates, phytates, and tannins, they should only be fed in moderation.

General Serving Guidelines

🔹 Small Dogs (Under 20 lbs) – 1 to 2 teaspoons, 1–2 times per week
🔹 Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs) – 1 to 2 tablespoons, 1–2 times per week
🔹 Large Dogs (50+ lbs) – 2 to 4 tablespoons, 1–2 times per week

How to Prepare and Serve Beet Greens to Dogs

Proper preparation and serving methods are key to safely including beet greens in your dog’s diet. Follow these steps to minimise risks and maximise benefits.

Step 1: Consult a Veterinarian

Before introducing beet greens, consult your vet, especially if your dog has:

Kidney issues (due to oxalates)
Digestive sensitivities
A history of food allergies

Step 2: Choose Fresh Beet Green Wash Thoroughly

Select organic beet greens to avoid pesticide residues.
Rinse under cold running water to remove dirt, pesticides, and bacteria.
Soak in a bowl of water with a splash of apple cider vinegar (optional) for extra cleaning.
Wash again before cooking.

Step 3: Cook to Reduce Anti-Nutrients

Cooking beet greens helps neutralise antinutrients that contain oxalates, phytates, and tannins, which can hinder nutrient absorption.
Boil or steam beet greens Avoid frying, sautéing, or adding butter, oil, salt, or seasonings—these can be harmful to dogs.

Step 4: Chop and Mix with Food

Finely chop cooked beet greens to make them easier to digest.
Mix a small amount into your dog’s regular food or homemade meals.
Start with a small portion and gradually increase if tolerated well.

Step 5: Monitor for Allergic Reaction

Watch for any unusual symptoms after feeding beet greens, such as:

Itchy skin or rashes
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Changes in urination (possible kidney stress)

🚨 If any of these occur, discontinue feeding and consult your vet.

When to Avoid Feeding Beet Greens to Dogs 🚫🐶

While beet greens offer nutritional benefits, they aren’t suitable for all dogs. Here are key situations where you should avoid feeding them.

Dogs with Kidney or Bladder Issues – High oxalates can increase the risk of kidney and bladder stones.
Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs – May cause diarrhoea, gas, and bloating.
Dogs Prone to Allergies – Can trigger skin irritation, digestive upset, or ear infections.
Dogs with Mineral Deficiencies – Phytates and tannins can further block calcium, iron, and zinc absorption.

How Do Beet Greens Differ from Beetroot?

Although both come from the same plant, beetgreens and beetroot offer different nutritional benefits:

Nutrient	Beet Greens 🌿	Beetroot 🔴
Sugar Content	Low	High
Fiber	High	Moderate
Vitamin A	High	Low
Iron	High	Moderate
Antioxidants	Rich in lutein & beta-carotene	Rich in betalains

While the beetroot is great for boosting energy and supporting blood circulation, beet greens offer more vitamins, minerals, and fibre—without the extra sugar.

Conclusion:

Alright, dog lovers, we’ve explored the ins and outs of beet greens for our canine companions, and the answer to “Can dogs eat beet greens?” is a cautious yes.

Beet greens offer a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can contribute to your dog’s overall health. However, the presence of oxalates necessitates careful portion control and observation.

While beet greens can offer some nutritional benefits, I, Dr. Musky Abal, a veterinarian with over five years of experience in canine nutrition, always advise pet owners to prioritise a balanced, complete diet formulated specifically for dogs.

💬 Have you ever fed your dog beet greens? Share your experience in the comments! ⬇️🐾

FAQs:

Let’s discuss some questions that might arise in your mind after reading the blog post “Can Dogs Eat Beet Greens?”

Can I feed my dog beet stems?

Yes, beet stems are also safe for dogs in moderation. They contain similar nutrients to the leaves. However, they can be a bit tougher, so chopping them into very small pieces is essential.

Can puppies eat beet greens?

No, puppies have sensitive digestive systems, and the anti-nutritional compounds in beet greens may interfere with their growth and nutrient absorption.

Are there better leafy greens for dogs?

Yes! Vet-recommended alternatives include kale, spinach (in small amounts), romaine lettuce, and parsley—all safer when properly prepared.

Are canned beet greens safe?

Canned beet greens are often high in sodium, which is not good for dogs. It is always better to offer your dog fresh, or frozen beet greens that have been cooked without any additives.

Can beet greens change my dog’s urine color?

Yes! Like beetroot, beet greens contain pigments that may cause reddish urine or stool, but this is usually harmless. However, if you notice persistent discoloration, consult your vet.

Can dogs with diabetes eat beet greens?

Yes, but in moderation. Beet greens contain natural sugars, so if your dog has diabetes or blood sugar issues, consult your vet before adding them to their diet.

Are beet greens safe for senior dogs?

Yes, but only in small amounts. Senior dogs often have weaker kidneys and are more prone to oxalate-related issues, so it’s best to offer safer greens like romaine lettuce or parsley.

References!
https://ri.conicet.gov.ar/handle/11336/103186 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-k https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11010875