Can Dogs Eat Garlic? Not On Our Watch

Sneaking your pup a delicious bite of steak from your plate may feel like a loving gesture, especially when you’re getting those puppy-dog eyes. Or perhaps you let them lick some homemade tomato sauce off your plate.

Because you care about your pup’s health, you’ve already taken the time to make sure that beef and tomatoes are safe for dogs. But there’s a sneaky ingredient in many of your favorite dishes that’s actually highly toxic to dogs. That means your generosity might lead to an unexpected trip to the vet. We’re talking about garlic, which finds its way into so many human foods.

Dogs cannot eat garlic, whether fresh, cooked, or powdered. It causes serious health issues in dogs and affects some breeds worse than others. 

And while some sources say that garlic has health benefits for dogs in the right amount, most veterinarians, scientists, and poison control organizations all agree that garlic is not safe for dogs. (When we consulted a veterinarian on this question, she responded decisively, and in all caps, “NO GARLIC.”)

Why is garlic bad for dogs?

Garlic is part of the allium vegetable family alongside onions, chives, and leeks. These vegetables contain an organic compound called n-propyl disulfide. Dogs don’t have the digestive enzyme capable of processing this compound, and when it builds up in the body it causes oxidative damage to red blood cells and leads to hemolytic anemia. 

Garlic contains five to 10 times more n-propyl disulfide than onions, leeks, and chives. 

Health risks of feeding garlic to dogs

Table scraps are the most common cause of garlic toxicity. The first symptoms of garlic poisoning often appear a few days after a dog ingests a toxic amount of garlic.

Signs of hemolytic anemia are:

• Lethargy
• Decreased stamina or even fainting after or during exercise
• Loss of appetite
• Pale gums 
• Elevated heart rate or respiratory rates (rapid breathing)
• Discolored urine
• Yellow eyes, skin, or gums

A dog suffering from these symptoms needs immediate medical attention. While it’s rare for dogs to die from eating garlic, some types of dogs may be more prone to garlic toxicity.

Anemic dogs, Japanese dog breeds like the Shiba Inu, and puppies are more susceptible to garlic toxicity. However, garlic is unsafe for all dogs, and you should contact your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has eaten some.

What to do if your dog eats garlic

If your dog eats garlic and you’re concerned, call your vet or contact the ASPCA Pet Poison Helpline immediately.

Immediate medical care is necessary if you suspect your pup has ingested more than a tiny amount of garlic — or if you see symptoms. Garlic toxicity is dose-dependent, meaning the reaction depends on the amount of garlic consumed, the size of the dog, and your dog’s overall health. Small dogs are at higher risk than larger breeds; however, garlic can negatively impact any size dog. 

So, if you notice your dog has consumed garlic, call your local veterinarian, emergency clinic, or the pet poison hotline immediately for advice.

With a pet insurance plan in place, urgent visits to the vet in the event of future accidents can help you get your pup the best care. That way, you can worry less about cost and focus more on your dog’s health.

What happens when a dog gets garlic toxicity?

If you suspect your pup has garlic toxicity and you’ve taken them to the vet, your dog will be examined for symptoms. The vet will likely run blood tests to check for clumps of damaged red blood cells called Heinz bodies and to assess dehydration, kidney function, and oxygen levels.

Depending on the severity of the anemia, IV fluids and possibly a blood transfusion may be necessary. Some dogs may also require oxygen therapy, which allows red blood cells to carry more oxygen with less effort. Your vet may give your pup powerful antioxidants to further help their red blood cells fight off damage.

Why do some experts recommend garlic supplements for dogs?

There are some holistic vets who believe that garlic offers health benefits for dogs without causing harm if the right amount is ingested. 

From a holistic standpoint, the possible medicinal benefits of garlic are much the same for dogs as they are for us humans. These potential benefits include lower cholesterol, reduced inflammation, and a boost to the immune system.

However, even if you lean more toward holistic views, we recommend against garlic supplements for dogs. Because garlic is so dangerous, talk to your vet before administering any garlic to your dog.

Safe alternatives for your dog

Garlic is generally bad for dogs, but luckily there are many healthy vegetables, herbs, and spices outside the allium family.

If you want to treat your pup to something besides their kibble or commercial dog treats, these vegetables, fruits, and spices are all dog-friendly. And you might even have them on hand already.

• Carrots
• Cinnamon
• Green beans
• Broccoli
• Sweet potatoes
• Corn
• Brussels sprouts
• Lettuce
• Apples
• Blueberries
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Watermelon 

When sharing any human food with your pup, make sure to practice moderation. Fully 90% of a dog’s diet should come from their dog food, with only 10% coming from treats like human food.

Special prep is also needed in order to share food with your pooch:

• Wash produce thoroughly before preparing it for dogs
• Make sure vegetables are peeled, cooked, and cut into small pieces to avoid choking hazards. 
• Fruit should also be cut into bite-sized pieces. 
• Always avoid added salt, seasonings, sweeteners, and butter or oil.

After sharing a new food, monitor your pup for any symptoms of digestive upset or food allergies. 

So, can dogs have garlic? 

Considering that garlic is known to be toxic to dogs, it’s best to avoid giving any to your dog. The risks are just too high to make it worthwhile. All pet owners want their pups to be as happy and healthy as possible, so only give them treats that will keep that tail wagging.

FAQs

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