Scientific studies show that garlic has numerous health benefits in humans. It can help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and fight off certain types of bacterial infections. Garlic is also one of the most potent natural antibiotics in existence.
Although there is no doubt about the benefits of garlic in humans, there are many conflicting beliefs and myths about the safety and benefits of garlic in dogs. Some people claim that the effects of garlic in dogs are insignificant, while others say even a small amount can be detrimental to your dog’s health.
There is no denying that dogs don’t always get along with garlic. But when ingested in small amounts, it can have some impressive nutritional and health benefits.
Below, we are going to look at the effects and benefits of garlic in dogs.
Is Garlic Safe for My Dog?
Just about every dog owner has asked themselves if their dog can eat garlic at some point. And the answer is yes and no. As mentioned, garlic has a high nutritional value and can improve your dog’s health in several aspects, from increased immunity to better digestion.
But as the adage goes, too much of anything is poisonous. And as it so happens, too much garlic can be deadly to your dog. For starters, garlic contains n-propyl disulfide, a chemical compound that, when ingested in large amounts, can damage red blood cells and lead to hemolytic anemia.
Garlic poisoning can cause stomach irritation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Other signs and symptoms of garlic poisoning in dogs include pale mucous membranes, general body weakness, lethargy, jaundice, rapid breathing, and discolored urine.
The Benefits of Garlic in Dogs
So far, we have looked at some of the dangers of garlic in dogs. We have also mentioned that ingesting small quantities of garlic can be beneficial to your dog. But what exactly are the benefits of garlic in dogs?
To begin with, garlic is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which help improve the health of your dog’s heart and boost the immune system. It also helps boost liver function, fight off bacterial infections, and improve digestion. Last but not least, garlic is a natural pest repellent and can reduce tick and flea infestation in your dog.
How Much Garlic is Safe for a Dog?
If your dog is not allergic to garlic, it is possible to enjoy all the benefits associated with garlic by using it in moderation. Some experts recommend that dogs not consume more than one clove per day, while others say as little as half a clove per day is enough.
However, not all dogs are the same. So, you need to take into account your dog’s weight and overall health before deciding on an appropriate serving of garlic. If your dog displays an allergic reaction to garlic, it is best to avoid it altogether.
Other instances where it is better to avoid garlic include if your dog has a history of gastric bloat, heart disease, lupus, anemia, or blood-clotting issues. Pregnant dogs and puppies below six months also tend to be vulnerable and should be kept away from garlic.
Is Garlic Bread Good for My Dog?
Garlic bread does not pose any serious health risks to dogs. However, it contains large amounts of cheese, oil, butter, garlic, and other additives that can lead to toxicity and stomach irritation. Additionally, garlic bread does not have any nutritional benefits for your dog whatsoever.
Treating Garlic Toxicity in Dogs
Most cases of garlic poisoning are mild and resolve themselves within 48 hours without treatment. In some cases, your veterinarian may also recommend intravenous fluids to ensure your dog stays hydrated and some medication to reduce vomiting.
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