The smell of garlic can be tempting to anyone, even to dogs. Although, as responsible dog owners, you need to be cautious about what you feed your pooch since many items that are healthy for humans are poisonous to dogs.
Many dog owners are unaware of the toxicity of garlic since some have previously promoted it as a digestive aid and even as a dewormer, leading to a discussion over whether it is deadly to dogs.
Dogs should not consume garlic as it belongs to the Allium family, particularly when it is powdered and used in spices.
Garlic seems to have a more negative impact on Japanese dog breeds, however, it is unknown why.
According to some experts, this is caused by the breed's high red blood cell count and inherited low levels of potassium and glutathione (a tripeptide protein).
Some of our canine pals may find the scent of garlic and its delicious flavor to be highly alluring.
Dogs have many tricks under their sleeves to grab a slice of whatever garlicky feast the family is eating, whether they run into the kitchen to check what's cooking or look into your soul as you settle down for supper.
Should devoted pet owners cave in and give dogs the desired bite, though? Let’s dive into the benefits of garlic, its side effects, and why garlic is dangerous for dogs.
Is Garlic Safe For Dogs To Eat
Garlic may be beneficial for human consumption, however, dogs digest certain nutrients differently from humans.
As previously mentioned, thiosulfate, a substance found in garlic and other plants in the allium family, including shallots, chives, and even leeks are poisonous to dogs but not to people.
In short, the answer is no. Dogs shouldn't eat garlic because it contains a toxin known as thiosulfate.
Although thiosulfate is not toxic to humans, it harms dogs' red blood cells, which are in charge of transporting oxygen throughout the body.
Hemolytic anemia is brought on by the oxidative damage that thiosulfate does to red blood cells.
Pale mucous membranes, fast breathing, lethargy, weakness, jaundice, and black urine are all signs of anemia.
Additionally, symptoms of garlic poisoning may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, increased heart rate, abdominal discomfort, pale gums, and drooling, which are brought on by garlic poisoning.
However, bear in mind that it might take some time before the signs of garlic poisoning become obvious.
If your dog consumes a lot of garlic, it is important to contact your local veterinarian or the pet poison helpline immediately.
How Much Garlic Is Toxic
Garlic is around five times more poisonous than onions or shallots in terms of concentration.
And take into account the following general guideline for onion toxicity: Even a little amount of onion consumption has been linked to clinically significant red blood cell damage.
To put that into perspective, a supermarket’s clove of garlic typically weighs between 3 and 7 grams, so your dog would have to consume a lot of fresh garlic or a large amount of garlic to get very ill.
However, certain dogs are more susceptible to the toxicity of garlic than others, and taking a toxic dosage of the herb over many days might also be harmful.
Although raw garlic tastes and smells more strongly than cooked garlic, it is safe to eat.
Additionally, more of the sulfur-containing compound called allicin, which is responsible for the majority of garlic's health benefits, is retained in raw garlic.
Since garlic is more concentrated than an onion or shallot, even a tiny quantity of its ingestion might result in toxicosis; in cats and small dogs, poisoning can result from as little as one clove of garlic.
Japanese breeds such as Shiba Inus and Akitas have a lower tolerance for garlic and you should be even more cautious around them when feeding them food.
Garlic bread will almost likely capture your dog's interest. Can you give your dogs garlic bread though?
Garlic often includes significant quantities of butter, oil, cheese, and other ingredients that might cause gastrointestinal problems for your dog.
Additionally, this meal provides your cat with no nutritional advantages and is a source of needless calories and fat.
Related Read: Can Dogs Eat Pork?
Benefits Of Garlic
Small dosages of garlic can be helpful for dogs as garlic has several health benefits, some of which include: preventing blood clots, increasing blood artery width, lowering cholesterol buildup helping to stop the growth of cancers, increasing lymphatic system stimulation for waste removal, and anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, and antibiotic.
If you offer garlic to your dogs during the flea and tick season, it could also help your pets in the fight against fleas and ticks.
Start feeding your dog before the start of insect season since it takes a couple of weeks for garlic to build up in the natural coat oil of your dog.
Although there are various health supplements, such as garlic supplements, and treatments that might assist, you should exercise caution since too much can be harmful and may need to be avoided.
Whether you should give your dog garlic is something you should always discuss with your veterinarian.
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Conclusion
Did you know that your pet can have pet insurance that will pay for certain eligible expenses related to these conditions?
Even though garlic poisoning is a severe ailment, it is uncommon for a healthy dog to pass away from it, and the majority of dogs completely recover with treatment.
You may go home with instructions on how to take care of your dog after your vet thinks the garlic is no longer in your dog's system.
Pets are in significant danger when garlic is consumed in large quantities, but chronically ingesting moderate amounts of garlic over time may also make your pet sick.
Pet owners should use caution if they think garlic prevents fleas. If pet owners are also taking garlic supplements for themselves, be cautious to take precautions to keep interested animals safe.
Always keep an eye on your pets and have Pet Poison Helpline on your speed dial for any worst-case scenarios.
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