Garlic Poisoning in Dogs

Many foods that are safe for us are toxic to dogs, so you have to be careful what you feed your little buddy. A debate over whether garlic is poisonous to dogs has many pet parents unsure of the toxicity because of the aid to the digestive system and the antibacterial properties that have been attributed to garlic.

Garlic, which is one of the Allium family, is poisonous to dogs, especially in powdered form, such as in seasonings. Japanese dogs (Akita, Japanese Spitz, Shiba Inu) are more commonly affected by garlic, but the reason is unclear. Some experts believe it is because of a high red blood cell count and low levels of glutathione (tripeptide protein) and potassium, which is hereditary in these breeds. This type of poisoning does major damage to the red blood cells, causes gastrointestinal upset (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), and respiratory problems. 

Although many people think it is safe to give their dog small amounts of garlic for its health benefits, the amount that your dog may safely consume may be much less than other dogs, even if they are the same breed and size. The amount of certain proteins and other elements in your dog’s blood is unique and has a significant impact on the amount of garlic that they can eat. It is best not to give your dog garlic and to take them to the veterinarian if you think they have eaten any amount of garlic, even if they show no symptoms.

Is garlic bread bad for dogs? How about spaghetti sauce seasoned with it? Or perhaps eggs with a touch of garlic before scrambling? Garlic (Allium) causes poisoning in dogs, even in small amounts. The consumption of garlic can cause gastrointestinal upset and anemia, and can even be fatal if not treated right away. The sulphuric compounds in the garlic are absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract and changed into reactive oxidants, which damage your dog’s red blood cells. Some experts claim that garlic can be beneficial to your dog’s health, and can be used for flea and worm control as well as anti-bacterial properties. However, the risk of toxicity is still in question, and safe consumption has not been proven.

Feeding your dog table scraps that have been seasoned with garlic powder is one of the most common causes of garlic poisoning. Healthy vegetables are no longer safe for your dog after garlic has been used in the cooking process. Some pet parents wonder if dogs can eat garlic bread as the amount of garlic may be minimal. The answer is no. Not only is the garlic added to the bread dangerous, but the yeasty dough can expand in the stomach, causing gastrointestinal symptoms. Sauces prepared with garlic are another no-no for canines. The heating up of the garlic can intensify the toxicity. 

It is best not to share your food with your dog because there are other health concerns that can come from giving your dog human food, such as pancreatitis (from fatty food) and obesity (from too much human food in general). 

It is also possible that your dog may find and consume garlic growing wild somewhere, and this is the hardest to diagnose because you will not even know that they have eaten anything toxic until symptoms begin. You should always keep your dog within view while you are anywhere besides your own yard.

The most important treatment your dog will need is to rid the body of the toxin by inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal. The charcoal will bind to the poison to aid in the removal and detoxification. However, if that is unsuccessful, the veterinarian will probably admit your dog to the hospital and flush the toxins out of your dog’s system with a saline solution lavage. In addition, IV fluids and oxygen therapy will be done. To treat the anemia, the veterinarian will perform a blood transfusion and prescribe iron medication.

Before your dog goes home, discuss the at-home care your dog will need. Your vet can instruct you on dietary requirements to aid in a speedy recovery. There may also be exercise restrictions for the first few days or weeks, depending on your best buddy's level of poisoning.

Your vet will also remind you to fence off your garden to keep your pet away from plants that may be toxic and advise you to keep garbage safely secured and out of reach of your curious pet.

Even though garlic poisoning is a serious condition, it is rare for a dog in good health to die from this, and almost all dogs recover fully with treatment. Once your veterinarian believes the garlic is out of your dog’s system, you will be able to return home, with instructions on how to care for your dog. 

You may have to continue to administer iron supplements and antibiotics for one to two weeks, but be sure to follow the veterinarian’s instructions. Iron can also be poisonous to your dog if given the wrong dosage. Be sure to follow up with your veterinarian and return to the clinic for a repeat blood test in about 30 days, or as directed by your veterinarian.