How good or bad is garlic for dogs?

Garlic is known for its medicinal benefits. But the same garlic if consumed in excess, which is so efficient in dealing with several diseases and its symptoms in humans is actually a type of poison for our darling dogs. Garlic just like onion and shallots, all of which belong to the allium family is highly toxic for dogs. It has been noted garlic is actually five times more toxic than onion. One clove of garlic is potentially life-threatening for dogs.

Dogs and cats cannot digest large amounts of garlic the way humans can. Indigestion of garlic can cause a condition called hemolytic anemia. This disease causes the rupture of red blood cells and antibodies attack whenever red blood cells are released into circulation after their formation in the bone marrow.If you suspect your dog has had consumed garlic and you notice something different about his behavior, call your veterinarian immediately.

• Breathlessness and lethargy
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Pale gums and weakness
• Intolerance to exercise, rapid heart rate
• Fainting

It might take two to four days for garlic poisoning symptoms to manifest fully so at the vet’s office do remember to mention all of your dog’s activity for the past couple of days for better evaluation.This is the bad part of garlic consumption by dogs. However there are people who believe that garlic, if given in moderation, can actually be beneficial to the dog. While administering garlic keep in mind two factors. Namely the weight and breed of your dog. Depending on those two factors, you can figure out how much garlic you can give to your dog. Lower the quantity better it will be. But too low an amount will also not be beneficial.

• Helpful in fighting bacterial and fungal infection
• Acts as a booster for liver and cardiovascular functions
• Helps to lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides

Though there is no hard and fast formula that can be adhered to while fixing an amount of garlic for your dog but commonly, pet owners prefer to give the following amount of garlic based on the weight of the dog

• 10-15 pounds – half a clove
• 20-40 pounds – 1 clove
• 45- 7 0 pounds – 2 cloves

You can give fresh, minced garlic or if you so wish, you can add garlic and prepare your dogs food.

In order to ensure your dog doesn’t suffer from toxicity, try to follow the following tips

• Give small proportions of garlic
• Do not give garlic on a regular basis

Read the ingredient list of all the food you give to your dog so that you can keep a tab over the amount of garlic he is having. Keep garlic intake to the minimum and add it sporadically to his food. If your dog shows intolerance or allergy to garlic, discontinue immediately. Be careful with the amount your are giving so that you can keep your dog the safest.