Can dogs eat onions, garlic, leeks and chives?
Toxic
No. Onions, garlic, leeks and chives are all toxic to dogs, whether raw, cooked or dried. If your dog has eaten some, contact your vet.
Also searched as: onion, onions, garlic, leek
If your dog ate onions, garlic, leeks and chives
Call your vet or an animal poison helpline now, even if your dog seems well. Do not wait for symptoms.
Signs usually take a few days to appear, so contact your vet as soon as you know your dog has eaten some.
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We do not list a poison helpline for your country yet. Contact your own vet or the nearest emergency vet straight away.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Reduced appetite
- Sore abdomen
- Dehydration
- Weakness
- Paleness (pallor)
- Collapse
Why it is dangerous
These plants belong to the allium family. They damage a dog's red blood cells, which can lead to anaemia. Cooked, dried and powdered forms are not safe. Signs often take a few days to appear, so a dog that seems fine at first can still become ill.
Sources
-
PDSA: Onion and garlic poisoning in dogs
checked 8 October 2026
Onions, garlic, and leeks are from a group of plants called alliums, which are all toxic to dogs and cats.
-
Merck Veterinary Manual: Garlic and onion (Allium spp) toxicosis
checked 8 October 2026
Allium spp include garlic, onions, chives, and leeks
dogs and cats have been affected after ingesting raw, cooked, dehydrated, or granulated onions and garlic
-
American Kennel Club: Can dogs eat onions?
checked 8 October 2026
This compound causes a breakdown of red blood cells, leading to anemia in dogs.
Last reviewed . How we check foods
This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.