Dogs should generally not have garlic because it contains thiosulfate, a compound toxic to dogs that can damage their red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. Symptoms of garlic toxicity include gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, weakness, pale gums, rapid breathing, and dark urine. While a dog would have to consume a relatively large quantity of garlic for severe toxicity to develop, even small amounts can be harmful, especially if eaten repeatedly or by sensitive dogs. Therefore, it is safest to avoid giving dogs any garlic in any form—raw, cooked, powdered, or as a seasoning. If garlic ingestion is suspected, monitoring for symptoms and consulting a veterinarian is recommended.
Some sources note that in very small amounts, garlic might be safe or even have mild health benefits for most dogs, but there is no consensus, and risk remains, particularly for certain breeds or dogs with specific health conditions. For safety, many veterinarians advise against intentionally feeding garlic to dogs at all.
