Adorably Pink (And Healthy!) Beetroot Hearts To Show Your Pup Some Love

You might know beetroot as that earthy vegetable in your salad, but for our dogs, it can be a powerhouse of nutrients when given in moderation. It’s not just about that gorgeous pink color! Here’s a look at the good stuff packed inside:

• Vitamins & Minerals Galore: Beets are a great source of Vitamin C (for immune support), folate (Vitamin B9, important for cell growth), manganese, and potassium. These all play a role in your dog’s overall health and vitality.
• Dietary Fiber: The fiber in beetroot is fantastic for digestive health. It can help keep your dog regular and supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is the foundation of good health.
• Antioxidant Power: Beets contain antioxidants like betalain, which is responsible for that deep red color. Antioxidants help fight against free radicals in the body, which can contribute to aging and disease.

Expert Tip: Always use fresh, cooked beetroot, not the pickled kind! Pickled beets from a jar contain way too much salt, sugar, and vinegar for a dog’s sensitive system.

While beetroot is healthy for most dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start baking. Safety first, always!

A Note on Oxalates

Beets are high in oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones in the bladder, especially in breeds that are already predisposed to them (like Miniature Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos, and Bichon Frises). If your dog has a history of bladder stones or kidney issues, it’s best to chat with your vet before adding beetroot to their diet.

Sugar Content

Beets have a higher natural sugar content than many other vegetables. For this reason, they should be given as a treat in moderation, particularly if your dog is diabetic, overweight, or needs to watch their sugar intake for any other reason.

The ‘Red Scare’ (Don’t Panic!)

Here’s a fun fact that can be alarming if you don’t expect it: beetroot can turn your dog’s pee and poop a pink or reddish color! This is completely normal and harmless. It’s just the pigment from the beets passing through their system. So, if you see a pink surprise in the backyard after treat time, don’t rush to the emergency vet. It’s just a sign they’ve been enjoying their special snacks.

Alright, it’s time for the fun part! This recipe is straightforward and uses just a few simple ingredients. Your kitchen will be filled with love—and the earthy smell of baking beets!

What You’ll Need: Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized beetroot, cooked and peeled
• 1 1/2 cups of whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free option)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons of water or unsalted chicken/beef broth, as needed

What You’ll Need: Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• A small heart-shaped cookie cutter
• A blender or food processor
• A rolling pin

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the Purée: Chop your cooked, peeled beetroot into chunks and place it in a blender or food processor. Blend until you have a smooth, vibrant purée. You should have about 1/2 cup of purée.
3. Mix Your Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg. Then, add the beetroot purée and mix well. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a stiff dough forms. If the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth until it comes together.
4. Roll and Cut: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out your dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the treats and place them on your prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and dry to the touch. The edges should be slightly darker.
6. Cool Down: Let the treats cool completely on the baking sheet before sharing them with your eager pup. This is the hardest step—for them, anyway!

These treats are so tasty, your dog will likely beg for more, but remember, they are treats! They should only make up a small part of your dog’s balanced diet.

How Many is Too Many?

As a general guideline, treats shouldn’t comprise more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For these beetroot hearts, that means:

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-3 treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 3-4 treats per day.

Keeping Them Fresh

Once the treats are completely cool, you can store them in an airtight container. They will last for about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Want to save them for a special occasion? They freeze beautifully! Just pop them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months.