vegetable
Garlic
DANGEROUS
No. Garlic is an allium like onion and can damage red blood cells, causing anaemia.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet for advice, giving the amount and form eaten. Watch for weakness or pale gums for several days.
When to contact a vet: Contact a vet if more than a trace was eaten, or at any sign of weakness or pale gums.
Symptoms to look for
- lethargy
- weakness
- pale gums
- rapid breathing
- vomiting
- reduced appetite
Why
Garlic is a member of the allium family and is considered more concentrated than onion by weight. It can damage red blood cells and lead to haemolytic anaemia. Garlic powder, garlic salt and garlic-containing dishes all count. Despite claims that garlic repels fleas, it is not a safe home remedy.
- Substances of concern
- organosulfur compounds, thiosulfate
- Parts to avoid
- Cloves, powder, granules, garlic salt and garlic-containing dishes.
- How much matters
- Garlic is more potent than onion by weight, so smaller amounts matter. Repeated small doses can also cause harm.
- Severity
- Moderate to high
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Toxicity
- PetMDVeterinary information — Toxicity
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.
Also known as garlic, garlic powder, garlic bread, garlic clove · Allium sativum