Read time: 3 mins
02 May 2024
No, dogs should not eat garlic.
While garlic might seem like a tasty addition to our meals, it's crucial to be aware that it can pose risks to our pups.
Yes, garlic is bad for dogs.
Garlic contains compounds that can be toxic to dogs, particularly in larger quantities. These compounds can cause damage to a dog's red blood cells, resulting in a condition called hemolytic anaemia. Even small amounts of garlic can potentially cause harm over time.
No, dogs should not eat garlic powder.
Just like fresh garlic, it’s important to keep garlic powder away from our pooches. It contains the same compounds that can be harmful to dogs, posing risks to their health, especially in larger amounts.
No, dogs should not eat garlic bread.
Garlic, as we know, can be dangerous for dogs to eat. Meanwhile, while it may make everything taste better to us, butter is high in fat and can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Plus, it's not exactly a nutrient powerhouse for our four-legged friends.
And finally, bread. While plain, unsalted bread in small amounts is generally safe for dogs, it's essential to keep portions small. Bread is not a necessary part of a dog's diet and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts. Additionally, some dogs may have sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients in bread, such as wheat or gluten.
Garlic poisoning in dogs can manifest in various symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Here are some common signs to watch out for:
Dogs may vomit shortly after ingesting garlic or garlic-containing foods.
Garlic poisoning can lead to gastrointestinal upset, causing diarrhoea in affected dogs.
Dogs may appear unusually tired or sluggish, lacking their usual energy and enthusiasm.
Garlic toxicity can result in weakness or reluctance to move, indicating potential muscle weakness.
Checking your dog's gums can provide insight into their health. Garlic poisoning may cause pale or discoloured gums due to decreased red blood cell count.
Dogs affected by garlic poisoning may exhibit rapid or laboured breathing as their bodies try to compensate for the decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of their blood.
An elevated heart rate may be observed in dogs suffering from garlic toxicity, as their bodies work harder to circulate oxygen-deprived blood.
In severe cases, garlic poisoning can lead to collapse or loss of consciousness as the body struggles to cope with the effects of the toxin on the bloodstream.
If your dog eats garlic, it's crucial to take quick action to minimise the potential harm. Here's what you should do:
Immediately call your vet or the nearest emergency vets for guidance. Provide them with details about how much garlic your dog consumed and when the ingestion occurred.
Keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of garlic poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, or collapse.
Follow your vet’s recommendations for further evaluation and treatment. They may recommend bringing your dog in for examination and may administer supportive care, such as IV fluids or medications to counteract the effects of the garlic.
Take steps to prevent your dog from accessing garlic or garlic-containing foods in the future. Store all food items securely and be mindful of what you leave within your dog's reach.
