In recent years, there has been a growing trend of pet owners opting for homemade treats for their furry companions. Not only does it give you control over the ingredients, but it also allows you to provide your dog with wholesome and nutritious snacks. If you’re looking to pamper your canine friend with a tasty and healthy treat, why not try making dehydrated beet treats at home? Dehydrated beet treats are not only simple to make but also offer a range of health benefits for your dog.

I love adding beets to treats and our dog food due to the numerous health benefits, and the fact that our dogs love the taste of beets.  They’re also a very cost-effective vegetable to add! 

Benefits of Dehydrated Beets for Dogs

Beets are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to your dog’s overall health and well-being. When dehydrated, beets retain their nutritional value, making them an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. These vibrant root vegetables offer numerous benefits, including improved digestion, immune system support, and enhanced skin and coat health. By incorporating dehydrated beet treats into your dog’s snacking routine, you’re providing them with a wholesome and nutrient-rich snack.

It’s important to note that while beets can provide numerous benefits to dogs, they should be introduced gradually and in moderation, as excessive consumption may lead to digestive upset. As always, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet or introducing new foods.

Here are some of the key advantages of beets:

1. Nutritional Powerhouse: Beets are packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, folate, potassium, manganese, and dietary fibre. These nutrients contribute to overall health and support various bodily functions in dogs.
2. Digestive Health: The fibre content in beets promotes healthy digestion in dogs. It aids in regulating bowel movements, preventing constipation, and supporting a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
3. Detoxification Support: Beets contain antioxidants and compounds that support liver function and detoxification processes in dogs. They can help eliminate toxins from the body and support the overall health of the liver.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Beets contain betaine, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. This can be beneficial for dogs with inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, by helping to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
5. Heart Health: The natural nitrates present in beets can help improve blood flow and support cardiovascular health in dogs. These compounds may contribute to healthy blood pressure levels and promote overall heart function.
6. Immune System Support: Beets are rich in vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. Including beets in your dog’s diet can help strengthen their immune system and enhance their ability to fight off infections and diseases.
7. Antioxidant Benefits: Beets contain antioxidants such as betalains, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants can protect cells from oxidative stress and contribute to overall cellular health.
8. Anti-Cancer Potential: Some studies suggest that the unique phytonutrients found in beets may have anti-cancer properties. While further research is needed, including beets in your dog’s diet may help support their overall wellness and potentially reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.

Risks of Dehydrated Beets for Dogs

As with introducing any new food or treat, it’s important to monitor your dog’s individual response and consult with a veterinarian before making significant dietary changes. They can provide personalized guidance based on your dog’s specific health needs and help ensure the safe incorporation of beets into their diet.

While beets have enormous health benefits, as with any foods there are a few risks to consider.  As you are likely aware, beets have a naturally high sugar content.  This is probably one of the reasons dogs love them!  Due to the high sugar content, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and potentially contribute to the development of conditions like diabetes. It’s important to moderate the amount of beet treats given to dogs, especially those with weight or blood sugar management concerns.

Likewise, excessive consumption, especially if beets are new to your dog, can lead to digestive upset such as diarrhea or upset stomach.  As with any new foods, slow introductions are ideal.

Beets, particularly the leaves and stems, contain oxalates which can contribute to the formation of calcium crystals or stones in the urinary tract.  Because of this, dogs with a history of urinary tract issues should limit their beet consumption

Dehydrated Beet Treats for Dogs Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8-14 hours

What you’ll need:

• Fresh beets (organic if possible)
• Baking sheet or tray
• Knife or mandolin slicer
• Dehydrator, oven or air fryer with dehydrator setting

Note: If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can still make dehydrated beet treats using your oven on the lowest setting.

1. Preparing and Cleaning the Beets – Start by selecting fresh, organic beets for the best results. Wash the beets thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.
2. Parboiling the Beets – If your beets are very large, consider cutting them in half or quarters prior to boiling them.  Add the beets to a pot of water and parboil them for several minutes until they just begin to soften.  Remove them from the water, and allow them to cool enough to handle. Remove the skin.  TIP – don’t throw away the water!  You will be left a beautiful red, fragrant water that can be used in gummies, treats, or other dog food.  If you don’t have an immediate use for it, consider freezing it! 
3. Slicing the Beets – Using a sharp knife or mandolin slicer, slice the beets into thin, uniform slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. Uniform thickness ensures even dehydration.  You can dehydrate whole slides, halves or even quarter slices if your beets are huge, but remember that the beets will shrink by about half. 
4. Optional Seasoning or Flavouring – If desired, you can enhance the flavour of the treats by adding a sprinkle of dog-friendly herbs such as parsley, ginger, or a touch of cinnamon or garlic.
5. Dehydrating the Beet Slices – If you have a dehydrator or an air fryer with a dehydration function, arrange the beet slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature (around 125-130°F / 52-55°C) and let the beets dry for 8-14 hours or until they become crisp. If using an oven, place the beet slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet or an oven-safe cookie rack and dry them at the lowest temperature setting for 2-4 hours, flipping them halfway through.
6. Checking for Doneness and Adjusting Dehydrating Time – To ensure the beet slices are fully dehydrated, check for crispness. They should be dry and crunchy. If needed, continue dehydrating for additional time until the desired texture is achieved.

Storage

Once the beet slices are thoroughly dehydrated, remove them from the dehydrator or oven and let them cool completely. Store the treats in an airtight container or zip-top bag to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks or refrigerated for an even longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

Dehydrated beet treats can be served as a standalone snack or incorporated into your dog’s regular diet. Remember to adjust the portion sizes based on your dog’s weight and dietary needs. As a general guideline, for small dogs, offer one to two beet slices per day, while larger dogs can enjoy two to four slices per day. Monitor your dog’s response to the treats and make any necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

By making dehydrated beet treats for your dog at home, you can provide them with a nutritious and delicious snack that supports their overall health. These treats are easy to prepare, and the vibrant colour and crispy texture will surely delight your furry friend. Remember to source fresh, organic beets and avoid using any harmful additives. Treat your dog to the benefits of dehydrated beet treats, and enjoy the satisfaction of pampering them with a homemade, wholesome snack.

Now it’s time to put on your chef hat and create these delectable treats for your four-legged companion. We hope your dog finds these homemade dehydrated beet treats absolutely irresistible!

Note: Remember to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or treats into your dog’s diet, especially if they have specific dietary requirements or health concerns.