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Can Dogs Eat Onions?
Do not give onions to dogs.
Are onions safe for dogs?
Onions belong to the allium family with garlic, chives, leeks and shallots, and are used in a huge range of cooked dishes. Onions in any form are toxic to dogs. They damage red blood cells and can cause anemia, sometimes several days after they are eaten.
What to do instead
- Check labels for onion, onion powder and garlic
- Keep onions and cooked dishes that contain them out of reach
- If your dog ate any, call your vet or a poison hotline, because signs can be delayed by days
- Choose a treat made for dogs instead
What to avoid
- Raw, cooked, dried and powdered onions
- Garlic, chives, leeks and shallots, which are related and just as risky (garlic is stronger)
- Soups, sauces, stuffing, baby food and other foods made with onion
How many onions can my dog have?
There is no amount of onions that we can recommend for dogs. Skip them entirely.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Signs can appear several days after eating onion and may include weakness, pale gums, fast breathing, dark urine, vomiting and loss of appetite. Do not wait for symptoms before calling your vet.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat onions?
No. Onions should not be given to dogs of any age.
What should I do if my dog ate onions?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your dog seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your dog's weight. Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of onions for my dog?
There is no amount of onions that we can recommend, and some dogs react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Onions?