Is It Safe For Dogs To Eat Garlic? | Find Out The Research

0
277
Garlic

Is It Safe For Dogs To Eat Garlic? | Find Out The Research

 

Are dogs allowed to eat garlic? the use of garlic in dog food is associated with both positive and negative health effects, according to recent research.

As a pet owner, you probably have come across many lists that indicate that garlic is toxic to dogs. This worry is shared by veterinarians and animal hospitals all over the world.

This comes as a surprise, given that I quickly concluded that there is no evidence in the available research to suggest that garlic is harmful to dogs.

The research suggests that raw garlic in tiny dosages should be considered a medicine for dogs. This is also the case with nettle and turmeric.

Advantages Of Giving Raw Garlic To Dogs


Allium sativum, more commonly known as garlic, is a type of vegetable that is a member of the genus Alium and comes from the same family as onions, chives, leeks, and shallots (in there lies much of the confusion, which we will discuss later).

garlic

Garlic has been used for culinary purposes for many centuries, but it has also been proven to be very effective in treating a wide range of illnesses in both people and animals.

Garlic has been used as a remedy for various ailments, ranging from scurvy to earache, for a very long time. The ancient Egyptians regularly gave garlic to their slaves to strengthen their immune systems.

Garlic is an excellent source of several different nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and B-complex, as well as the mineral sulfur (which is responsible for much of the odor that garlic emits), zinc, potassium, magnesium, and manganese.

Garlic also contains a high amount of sulfur. Although most of them play a part in the body’s natural detoxification processes, the fact that garlic contains the bioactive compounds allicin and ajoene gives it its reputation as a potent medicinal alternative.

According to several studies, not only do these substances fight cancer, but they also bring blood sugar and cholesterol levels down.

Most people have heard that it is “excellent for the blood,” and the reason for this is not just that it has been used to treat a variety of blood infections but also that it has been used to reduce blood pressure.

It significantly relaxes the heart and the muscles, acting as a vasodilator (which increases blood flow) and a hypotensive agent.

Even though most of the studies on garlic’s health benefits have been conducted on humans, here are some well-documented advantages of eating raw garlic. On the other hand, canines will exhibit the majority of the benefits, if not all.

The advantages are as follows:

  • Antimicrobial, antifungal, and antihelmintic agents
  • Increases resistance and immunity
  • Protects against the flu and other viral infections
  • Increases the quantities of anti-clotting agents in the blood while simultaneously lowering blood pressure
  • Reduces inflammation within the body and cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
  • It assists in mitigating the negative consequences of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
  • Purge your body of the harmful effects of heavy metals.
READ ALSO:  Can Dogs Eat Bones? All You Should Know About Feeding Your Dogs With Bones

Garlic may interact negatively with some medications, and these interactions will likely be the same no matter what species you are.

5 Ways In Which Garlic Can Be Beneficial To Your Dog


1. Garlic as a Treatment for Worms in Dogs

Raw garlic, as well as garlic extracts, are utilized within the realm of natural veterinary medicine due to their antibacterial, antiseptic, and antibiotic qualities.

On the other hand, garlic may be best known for its usage as an anthelminthic (also known as a deworming agent) for animals.

 

2. The use of garlic to treat ticks on dogs

Tick bites are a common health risk for humans and their canine companions. Because garlic has been shown to have anti-tic properties in humans, it is frequently used to rid pets of ticks.

Consuming raw garlic significantly reduced the number of tick bites experienced by the Swedish Marines, according to a study involving 100 service members.

However, it is the sulfur included in the raw garlic that penetrates the skin of the dog and kills the insects that are causing the problem. Because it takes a few weeks before it starts functioning, it is recommended that you start giving your pet garlic in modest doses before the tick season begins.

 

3. The use of garlic to treat fleas on dogs

To determine the effectiveness of garlic in repelling fleas, a team of researchers in India covered several test canines with substantial amounts of raw crushed garlic.

In this study, an enclosure for dogs measuring three feet by two feet was surrounded by approximately one pound of crushed raw garlic every other day over thirty days.

Garlic unquestionably has a prophylactic impact on fleas, although it is not as effective against fleas on indoor dogs (which is a shame!). Additional studies examine how effective raw garlic is as a flea repellent when applied topically to the ears of cats and dogs.

It’s not that we want you to worry too much about fleas on dogs if your dog doesn’t have any of those parasites, but it’s just unnecessary!

It’s like giving a youngster medication to treat nits that she doesn’t even have! We wait till the problem arises before we address it, don’t we?! The issue is that fleas are more likely to infest weaker species, such as very young or elderly animals, sick animals, or diseased animals.

An infestation of fleas on a dog that is otherwise sound and has a strong immune system is rare. Most people who own pets will go their entire lives without meeting one.

Because of this, I strongly advise you to avoid using those terrible chemical flea repellents on your dogs until you see a flea on one of them.

If you do find a flea or if your dog has a compromised immune system or other underlying health issues, you may want to invest in some natural solutions for treating dog fleas, such as DeNeem, which is an entirely natural product that looks like talc and kills fleas through a process known as mechanical extermination (not chemically).

When it comes to protecting your dog against ticks and fleas, Billy No Mates! is an excellent choice. You have to begin giving it food one month in advance of the start of the tick season.

 

4. The Use of Garlic for Treating Ear Infections

Dogs frequently suffer from ear infections, which may be a frustrating problem for their owners. Additionally, garlic oil is an excellent natural remedy that can prevent and treat ear infections in dogs.

It will eliminate various illnesses, including yeast, germs, mites, and anything else that can move.

Mullein is an essential component of the most potent garlic oil (a natural anti-inflammatory). You should saturate a cotton swab with the oil, and then twice daily, insert it into your dog’s ear canal, and squeeze.

If he permits you, gently massage the area immediately below the ear, as we need to get a drop or two to the end of that canal.

 

5. Garlic’s Effect on the Dilation of Blood Vessels

Garlic, which is both a vasodilator and a blood clot preventative, can be of substantial assistance to dogs suffering from cardiac issues; however, before administering garlic to your dog, you should always seek the advice of a natural veterinarian.

Why Do People Keep Garlic Away From Their Dogs?


Considering all of these advantages, why do some believe garlic is dangerous for dogs? This is because garlic is a member of the same family as onions, leeks, chives, and shallots, called the Allium family.

READ ALSO:  What Exactly Are Tumors In Dogs? | Find Out

garlic

Onion, leeks, chives, and shallots are the only ones that include a significant amount of the concerning component thiosulfate, a compound that is hazardous for canines. However, all of these latter do contain a range of sulfur-based compounds (but not for humans).

When consumed in large quantities by canines, this thiosulfate causes oxidative damage in the red blood cells, leading to the formation of “Heinz Bodies,” which the body then rejects and eliminates from the bloodstream.

This can, over time, lead to a condition called hemolytic anemia, which can result in death.

Diarrhea, fast breathing, loss of appetite, weakness, vomiting, and dark urine are some symptoms of hemolytic anemia in dogs. Other symptoms include vomiting and dark urine.

Misunderstanding Due To Wrong Research.


On the other hand, garlic has not been shown to be poisonous to dogs or cats in any of the researchs that have been done on it, in contrast to the numerous studies that have been done on onions.

An overdose study appears to be the sole research endeavor that I’ve identified as the origin of this widespread misperception.

This research utilized the equivalent of 5 grams of raw garlic per kilo of the dogs’ body weights and was carried out for seven days with eight unfortunate labradors confined in cages.

To put this number into perspective, if they were using dogs weighing 20 kilograms, the recommended daily amount of raw garlic for each dog would be 100 grams, equivalent to 20 full cloves. This is truly terrible material.

We must remember that the consumption of such a massive quantity of garlic was necessary for the purposes of research. However, even though the blood parameters of the dogs unquestionably deteriorated, not a single dog had hemolytic anemia.

The conclusion was that consuming this quantity of garlic in such a short period could potentially lead to hemolytic anemia.

Garlic in this excessive quantity shouldn’t even be given to elephants, let alone canines. This erroneous research has no bearing on the medical doses of raw garlic recommended to be included in your dog’s food.

When looking at the studies on onions, you can also notice similarities between the two. For instance, it was discovered that Japanese dog breeds like Akita Inus and Shiba Inus’ are especially prone to allium poisoning.

Other Japanese dog breeds like Tosa Inus are also susceptible. However, the two studies used to support this claim employed a Large quantity of onions, with one study using as much as 200 grams of onions for each dog daily.

On the other hand, this in no way diminishes the danger posed by onions. Indeed, onions are extremely dangerous for both dogs and cats to consume. Therefore, you should never give your dogs any items that may have been contaminated with onion.

How Much Garlic Is Safe For Dogs To Eat Every Day?


Here are two different methods for determining how much garlic to feed your dog. Take care, and you shouldn’t start with the full dose. Begin with a low amount and gradually increase it as you go along.

Maybe your dog doesn’t like it? It is recommended by Caroline Ingraham, who is famous for her work on Zoo Pharmacognosy, to place it to the side of the bowl.

If they need it, as Caroline points out, they will take it, which is consistent with the fact that they almost always take what they want.

1. The Suggested Amount of Garlic to Eat Per Day Using Tablespoons

Include the following amount of raw garlic in your dog’s meal daily, measuring out each serving with a standard teaspoon and adjusting for the dog’s weight in pounds.

  • 5 lbs: ⅙ tsp
  • 10 lbs: ⅓ tsp
  • 15 lbs: ½ tsp
  • 20 lbs: ⅔ tsp
  • 30 lbs: 1 tsp

2. The Suggested Amount of Garlic to Eat Using Cloves

The sizes of cloves can vary quite a little from one another, which makes using garlic cloves as a measurement somewhat subjective. Nevertheless, the following is a standard clove measurement:

  • 10-15 lbs: ½ clove
  • 15-40 lbs: 1 clove
  • 40-70 lbs: 2 cloves
  • 70-90 lbs: 2 ½ cloves
  • 100 lbs+: 3 cloves

Utilizing a measuring spoon is the best method because it ensures consistency and accurate dosage. Before adding garlic to your pet’s diet, you should discuss your concerns with one of us if you have any reservations about doing so.

Is It Okay To Give My Dog Garlic Bread?


You might assume it will be okay to give your dog a loaf of excellent garlic bread, and your dog will most likely enjoy this treat if you give it to them.

READ ALSO:  The Wonderful World Of Hamsters: Discovering The Secrets Of Your Furry Friends

But you must remember that garlic bread only has a trace amount of garlic mixed in with a substantial amount of butter, oil, cheese, and other spices.

Garlic bread contains significant levels of gluten, empty calories, and processed fats; therefore, it is unlikely that your dog will have any positive effects from eating it.

On the other hand, your dog is likely to experience more negative effects from eating garlic bread than positive ones.

Is It Okay To Give My Dog Garlic Supplements?


It is always best to give your dogs fresh and uncooked garlic because it has the most health advantages.

Garlic supplements that are dried and created chemically may cause more harm than good, and there is little evidence that dried garlic supplements are beneficial. If you would like to give your dog garlic supplements, you should look for garlic extracts.

How To Make Garlic Safe For Dogs To Eat


If you want to improve your dog’s immunity, the best approach to give it garlic daily is to give it fresh, raw garlic. To accomplish this:

  • Always use garlic that is both fresh and organic. Garlic that has been cooked, canned, or otherwise processed should be avoided because it may have been exposed to preservatives to maintain its shelf life.
  • First, the garlic should be peeled, and then it should be chopped, minced, or crushed. Within ten minutes of peeling the garlic, you should use it.
  • Your dog will become accustomed to garlic flavor more quickly if you gradually increase the quantity for several days.
  • If you find that your dog does not enjoy raw garlic flavor, you can try substituting garlic oil for it in his meal.
  • After you begin to observe improvement in whatever condition you are attempting to treat, consider reducing the dosage (or, at the very least, moving it to the side of his bowl).

Caution Should Be Exercised When Using Garlic With Pets


When it comes to giving garlic to dogs, there are a few situations in which extreme caution is advised:

1. Puppies

Garlic should never be given to puppies under six months since their bodies cannot manufacture new blood cells until they are at least eight weeks old.

Garlic should not be given to young animals; only after they have been weaned and are at least six months old should you start giving it to them in very small amounts.

2. Pregnant And Nursing Dogs

When it comes to feeding pregnant or nursing dogs, I will always advise exercising extreme caution with meals and supplements.

Garlic can alter breast milk’s flavor and may even be transferred to the newborn puppy through the mother’s milk. Garlic should therefore be avoided when it comes to pregnant and nursing pets.

3. Interactions Between Medications

Garlic may have a negative interaction with several different drugs. Garlic should not be given to your dog if he already has issues that cause him to be anemic. Garlic should not be given to dogs while they are receiving any of the following medications:

  • Heart medications
  • Immune suppressants
  • Chemotherapy
  • Blood thinners
  • Medication for High Blood Pressure
  • Treatment with insulin

Poisoning Of Dogs Caused By Garlic


Poisoning in dogs caused by garlic is quite uncommon. It is something that I have never seen or even heard of. It is hard to believe that a dog could consume one hundred cloves of garlic in such a short amount of time.

Most pet owners are under the mistaken impression that the little amount of toxin their dog ingested could have an adverse effect on them, despite the fact that this is not the case.


 

Questions People Also Ask: (FAQs)

 

 

Can Dogs Eat Garlic?

Yes, dogs can eat garlic in small amounts, but it should not be fed to them in large amounts as it can cause gastrointestinal irritation and anemia.

Is Garlic Toxic To Dogs?

While garlic is not generally considered toxic to dogs, it can be harmful in large amounts. It is a member of the Allium family, which can cause damage to red blood cells and lead to anemia.

What Are The Benefits Of Garlic For Dogs?

Garlic has potential health benefits for dogs, such as being a natural flea and tick repellent, and possibly even having some anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

How Much Garlic Can Dogs Safely Consume?

A general guideline is to feed no more than one small clove of garlic per 15 pounds of body weight per day.

Can Garlic Cause Anemia In Dogs?

Yes, consuming large amounts of garlic can cause anemia in dogs due to damage to red blood cells.

Is It Safe To Give Garlic Supplements To Dogs?

It is best to consult with a veterinarian before giving garlic supplements to dogs, as the powdered form can contain contaminants and may be more concentrated.

Are There Any Side Effects Of Garlic For Dogs?

Some dogs may experience gastrointestinal irritation or anemia if they consume large amounts of garlic. Additionally, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to garlic.

Can Garlic Help Repel Fleas And Ticks On Dogs?

Yes, garlic has natural flea and tick-repellent properties, and it is believed to be effective in repelling these parasites.

Is It Better To Give Fresh Or Powdered Garlic To Dogs?

It is best to use fresh, organic garlic, as the powdered form can contain contaminants and may be more concentrated.

Is It Necessary To Consult A Veterinarian Before Giving Garlic To Dogs?

Yes, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before adding garlic to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has any existing health conditions or is taking any medications.


We appreciate you for taking the time to read this article!

 

Finally, we hope you found this article interesting? And what do you think about ”Is It Safe For Dogs To Eat Garlic? | Find Out The Research!?”

Please you should feel free to share or inform your friends about this article and this site, thanks!

And let us know if you observe something that isn’t quite right.