garlic for dogs

Question
   I have a 2-year-old Chihuahua, spayed female (or is it neutered?)  She's about 10 lbs.  No known allergies.  Exercises moderately daily.  Food is Blue Buffalo dry.  I give her occasional treats.  (1ce or 2ce daily).  

   Now, my question:  I bought a dog treat called "Purina Carvers" that has garlic powder listed as the fourth ingredient.  Is this harmful?  I called Purina and they said they include it because it "increases palatability".  They did not have info regarding whether or not it was researched for health affects.

Answer
Garlic is one of those tricky things. In large amounts it can cause Heinz body anemia. Basically the dogs red blood cells are broken down and the dog becomes anemic.

But in small amounts it does no harm. It does make foods more stinky which does up the "Wow" factor for dogs. It has also been used as a flea repellant by some as well.

A member of a forum I'm on has a recipe for dog treats that contains a small amount of garlic. Many of us use this recipe for our dogs with no ill effects.

Your dog would have to eat a lot of garlic for it to become toxic, unlike onions.

If your dog enjoys the treats I'd go ahead and let her have them.


~Jess