Can Dogs Eat Garlic?

By /
❌

Dog food safety answer

Toxic: Dogs should not eat garlic

No. Dogs should not eat garlic, including garlic powder.

Safety levelToxic
Main concernRed blood cell damage
Serving noteNo safe serving is recommended.
AvoidRaw garlic, cooked garlic, garlic powder, garlic-seasoned foods.
What to do: Contact your veterinarian or pet poison control now. Do not wait for symptoms.Contact a veterinarian if your dog ate garlic or garlic-seasoned food.
Also watch for

Safer alternatives

Search another food

Quick answer

Garlic is not safe for dogs. This includes raw garlic, cooked garlic, garlic powder, and foods seasoned with garlic.

If your dog ate garlic, do not wait for symptoms to appear. Contact your veterinarian for guidance.

Why this can be safe/risky/toxic

Garlic is toxic to dogs because it is an allium. Garlic can be more concentrated than onion and can contribute to red blood cell damage in dogs.

Garlic powder and garlic-seasoned foods are also unsafe. No safe serving is recommended.

Symptoms or warning signs

Possible signs after garlic exposure include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Weakness
  • Pale gums
  • Lethargy
  • Fast breathing

If you notice any of these signs, contact a veterinarian right away.

What to do now

  • If your dog ate garlic: Contact a veterinarian for advice.
  • If your dog ate garlic powder or garlic-seasoned food: Contact a veterinarian, because these are also unsafe.
  • If symptoms are present: Treat it as urgent and seek veterinary help immediately.

Try to identify what your dog ate, how much may have been eaten, and when it happened. Share that information with your veterinarian.

Safer alternatives

Safer options include plain, unseasoned cooked meat or vegetables that are dog-safe.

Avoid garlic, garlic powder, and garlic-seasoned foods when preparing food or treats for your dog.

FAQ

Can dogs eat garlic powder?

No. Dogs should not eat garlic powder.

Is cooked garlic safer for dogs?

No. Cooked garlic is listed as unsafe for dogs.

What should I do if my dog ate food seasoned with garlic?

Contact a veterinarian if your dog ate garlic or garlic-seasoned food.

Sources

  • ASPCA People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
  • AKC: Can Dogs Eat Garlic? https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-garlic/

Disclaimer: This page is for general dog food safety information only. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice. For toxic exposures or emergency symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately.