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My dog ate onion or garlic —
is it dangerous?

Short answer: it depends how much. Onions, garlic, chives and leeks can damage a dog's red blood cells — and garlic is stronger than onion.

🟡 Watch closely — call your vet, especially if it was a lot
Onions, garlic, chives and leeks (raw, cooked, or as powder in seasonings, soups and sauces) can damage dogs' red blood cells and cause anemia. Garlic is more potent than onion, and powders/concentrated forms are most dangerous. A tiny one-off taste is usually low risk, but a larger amount, repeated exposure, any powder/seasoning, or a small dog warrants a vet call. Signs can be delayed by several days.
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  • Estimate how much, in what form (raw/cooked/powder), and your dog's weight.
  • Call your vet for advice — especially for larger amounts, powders, or small dogs.
  • Save the packaging if it was a seasoned/prepared food.
  • Watch for several days, not just today.
  • Lethargy, weakness, low energy
  • Pale or yellowish gums
  • Reddish or brown urine
  • Rapid breathing or racing heart
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
Want a human now?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a consult fee may apply)
Other foods dogs shouldn't eat:
Chocolate · Grapes & raisins · Xylitol (gum & candy)