Why it is dangerous for dogs
Garlic belongs to the same plant family as onion and is considered even stronger. Its sulphur compounds damage red blood cells and can cause anaemia. Fresh, cooked, fried and dried garlic, garlic powder and dishes containing them are all dangerous.
The amount that causes harm differs from dog to dog and cannot be judged at home. The damage builds up, and signs may only appear a few days later.
If your dog ate garlic or food containing it, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if your dog seems well. Tell them what was eaten and when, and take the packaging with you.
What to watch out for
- Red blood cells are damaged and anaemia can develop.
- The dog becomes weak and dull, the gums can turn pale and the urine can turn reddish or brown.
- Vomiting, diarrhoea, belly pain and loss of appetite can follow.
- Garlic is not a safe way to keep off fleas, ticks or worms, whatever you may have read.
- Garlic is found in sauces, garlic bread, sausages and spice mixes, so a dog can eat it by accident.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Cucumbers Yes, fresh cucumber is fine for dogs: it is mostly water and low in calories, but do not give pickled cucumbers. Safe
- Courgettes Yes, courgettes are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, without oil, salt or spices, they make a light, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Bell peppers Yes, sweet bell peppers are fine for dogs: washed, without seeds or stalk, raw or cooked without spices, they make a good treat. Safe