Garlic: To Give or Not To Give To Your Dog

Garlic can be a bit of a controversial topic when it comes to pets, especially dogs. While many people believe that garlic has health benefits for dogs, it’s important to note that garlic, along with other members of the allium family such as onions and leeks, can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large quantities. This information also applies to garlic powder. Not good!

Garlic contains compounds that can cause damage to your dog’s red blood cells, leading to a condition called hemolytic anemia. Symptoms of garlic toxicity in dogs may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and even more severe effects like collapse or organ damage.

That being said, small amounts of garlic are not likely to cause harm to your dog. Some pet owners use very small, controlled amounts of garlic as a natural flea and tick repellent, although it’s always advisable to consult with your veterinarian before trying any home remedies.

To be safe, it is recommended to avoid feeding your dog any foods that contain garlic or large amounts of garlic, and if you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic amount of garlic, be sure to contact your veterinarian immediately for further guidance and treatment. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your furry friend’s health!

So, How Much Is Safe?

If a small amount of garlic is to be considered, it is typically recommended to keep the dosage extremely low. Some sources suggest that a safe guideline for a healthy adult dog may be up to 1/2 of one very small clove of garlic per 10 pounds of body weight, given very infrequently.

Even with this calculation, it’s crucial to remember that the toxic effects of garlic can build up over time and that the safest option is to avoid giving garlic to dogs altogether. There are plenty of other safe and healthy ways to promote your dog’s well-being without the potential risks associated with garlic.

If you have specific reasons for considering using garlic as a supplement for your dog, it’s best to discuss this with your veterinarian to explore safer alternatives that can address your concerns without compromising your dog’s health. Each dog is unique, and what may be safe for one dog could be harmful to another, so personalized guidance is essential.

On a personal note, I don’t and won’t give our amazing rescue dog, Mr Fitch, any garlic because we don’t want to take any chances with his health.