Can Dogs Eat Garlic? Busting the Myth
Garlic is often hailed as a superfood for humans, but when it comes to our companions, many pet owners find themselves asking, "can dogs eat garlic?" or "can dogs have garlic in their diet?"
These questions stem from widespread concerns about garlic's potential toxicity to dogs. In this article, we'll dive into the facts surrounding garlic in dog nutrition, explore its potential health benefits, and provide guidelines on how to safely incorporate garlic into your dog's diet. Let's bust the myths and uncover the truth about garlic and dogs.
Is Garlic Toxic to Dogs?
For a very long time, there has been the assumption that garlic is toxic for dogs and that one should never feed them any food or supplement containing garlic. The question that remains is: Is garlic actually toxic to dogs? The answer is no! While it is crucial to know the proper dosage for your dog, there are many health benefits of garlic for dogs.
Is Garlic Good for Dogs?
Yes, garlic has several beneficial properties for dogs. We’ll discuss the benefits further below.
Can Dogs Eat Garlic in Food?
Another question that dog owners often wonder about is: “can dogs eat garlic in food?” The answer is - it depends. We would not advise feeding your dog garlic bread, sauce, or soup as they have other ingredients that are not usually healthy for them. However, if you are feeding a healthy whole-food supplement, like Dr. Harvey’s Multivitamin and Mineral, then there should be no concern. When given in the right dosage, garlic can offer numerous health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, improving cardiovascular health, and acting as a natural flea and tick repellent.
It's always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of garlic for your dog's diet to ensure it is safe and beneficial.
Benefits of Garlic for Dogs
Garlic is a great source of vitamins and minerals and is high in inulin and amino acids. Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that helps support healthy gut functions. Garlic contains vitamin A,C, B-Complex, sulfur, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and manganese. It can act as a liver enhancer helping to break down toxins and waste in your dog’s digestive system. It is also said to help lower blood sugar and cholesterol.
Garlic can also help to detox the body and eliminate harmful bacteria that may be causing your pup some trouble. It is a natural antibiotic, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and can be used as a natural flea or tick repellent. Fleas and ticks despise the smell of garlic so if you start feeding it a couple weeks before the tick season approaches it will have enough time to build up in their system naturally deterring these pests.
It's crucial to be aware of any underlying health conditions or ongoing medications your pup may have before introducing garlic into their diet. Consulting with your trusted veterinarian or a qualified nutritionist is the best practice in such cases. With the right guidance, garlic can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet, offering not only flavor but a host of potential health benefits.
What if I accidentally give my dog garlic?
If your dog accidentally consumes garlic, there is usually no reason to panic. However, it’s always best to contact your vet to discuss your dog’s individual needs and the proper dosage.
How much garlic can I give my dog?
Freshly chopped garlic is the ideal way to include some in your dog’s diet. You’ll want to be sure to peel the cloves and prepare it fresh when it’s time to add it to your dog’s food.
The following amounts are generally safe:
- 5lbs: 1/6 tsp
- 10lbs: ⅓ tsp
- 15 lbs: 1/2 tsp
- 20lbs: 2/3 tsp
- 30 lbs: 1 tsp
Try Dr. Harvey’s All Natural Food Today
Dr. Harvey’s offers a variety of foods and supplements that can help your canine companion be their healthiest. If you have any dog health or nutrition questions, contact our team of nutritionists. They are always available and happy to help.
