Can my dog eat Garlic?

Yes, but moderately and only under your supervision. But then, so much has been written about garlic’s poisonous nature to dogs and cats. Is there any truth in that?Yes, garlic can be poisonous. We all know that onions are bad, but did you know that garlic is about 5-times more potent? The reactions vary from breed to breed, and smaller dogs (and cats) show greater sensitivity to the toxic nature of garlic. Garlic can damage red blood cells, making them prone to rupture, which can cause anemia, and lead to further complications.

Common signs of garlic poisoning to watch for include:

• Nausea
• Drooling
• Oral irritation
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Elevated heart rate and respiratory rate
• Weakness
• Exercise intolerance
• Collapse
• Pale gums

Signs of garlic poisoning are not always immediately apparent and can show up after several days even. While tiny amounts of garlic may be safe, large amounts can be quite toxic. But there is nothing to fear Don’t panic. Garlic is not all poison and if prepared well, it can actually be fed to your dog for his improved well-being.

Here’s why we are such strong advocates of garlic:

Minerals and nutrients:Garlic contains high levels of amino acids, inulin, sulfur, zinc, potassium and phosphorus, besides vitamin A and C, magnesium, manganese, calcium, selenium, germanium and B-complex vitamins. Better circulation: Garlic’s pungent energy helps warm the body. Energy moves upwards and outwards to the body’s surface, improving overall circulation. Garlic is also good for the lungs, large intestine, spleen and stomach. To detox: Garlic supports good flora in the digestive tract and eliminates harmful ones, to detox and balance out the digestive system. Liver enhancer: Garlic helps breaks down wastes before they enter your dog’s bloodstream. It also helps him absorb nutrients better from the food. Anti-platelet: Garlic has been known to prevent the formation of blood clots. It can also help widen blood vessels. Anti-cholesterol: When fed in the right proportion, garlic can actually decrease cholesterol build-up in your dog. Prevents tumors: Garlic has been known to fight cancers and improve the overall immune system of dogs. It can also help prevent the formation of tumors. Antibiotic and anti-fungal: Garlic’s antibiotic and anti-fungal properties keep your dog safe from several of the more common illnesses and skin ailments. Anti-parasitic: Garlic works wonderfully as a flea and tick repellent. Start feeding a few weeks before the bug season for the dog’s natural coat oil to pick up the scent.

Feeding garlic the right way

We can’t stress enough on how the garlic that you feed has to be fresh and raw. Stay away from the bottled pre-chopped or pre-peeled whole garlic cloves in a bag. Your garlic has to be peeled 10-15 minutes before you feed it for your dog to get maximum benefit from it. Fresh organic garlic contains two enzymes: allinn and alliinase. When you chop, crush or mince fresh garlic, these two enzymes combine to create a third enzyme,allicin. Allicin is what gives garlic its antibiotic, antiviral, anti-cancer and antioxidant properties. By feeding raw garlic, you are feeding the nutrition from the entire plant, and not just its extract. While garlic is safe for your dog when fed in appropriate amounts, there are some precautions to bear in mind: Pregnant dogs Check with your veterinarian before supplementing your pregnant dog with any new foods or medicine. Garlic can also change the taste of breast milk, so avoid feeding it to a lactating mother. Puppies Garlic should not be fed to puppies below six months. Breed specific issues Certain dogs, like Akitas and ShibaInus, exhibit a stronger reaction to garlic. Consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns regarding your dog’s health risks. Drug interactions Garlic can interact with certain medications and create complications. If your dog is on any of these drugs, do not feed him garlic.

• Immune suppressants
• Heart medications
• Chemotherapy drugs
• Blood thinners
• Insulin
• Antacids
• High blood pressure drugs

Conclusion Excess of anything can be harmful, but used in moderation and in the right proportion garlic can actually have several health benefits for your pooch. Feed 1/3 of a teaspoon per 10 pounds of your dog’s weight, and you will never exceed permissible limits. What are your views on garlic? Do let us know in your comments below.