The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Liv (Nsw, Australia) on 10/05/2011
★☆☆☆☆
DO NOT GIVE YOUR DOG GARLIC. IT IS HARMFUL TO DOGS. IT CAUSES RENAL FAILURE! DO NOT GIVE THEM GARLIC AT ALL, PLEASE!
Dosage
Posted by Sarah (Chicago, Illinois) on 09/29/2011
★★★★★
After my Lab/shep mix died, I was a mess and found out I was killing my best friend slowly. sob.
I found out too late about Fresh garlic and wheat free dog foods .
Over vaccinating dogs = renal failure. Horrible dog food= renal failure.
Frontline Heartgaurd= renal failure.
My surviving dog is a shep/husky and is thriving on a clove of minced garlic mixed into wheat-free dog food, then she gets REAL people food in the form of 'Leftovers': Mashed potatoes, Asparagus, spinach etc...
The fresh garlic clove once every 2 days 1TBLS-ACV (apple cider vinegar) in water bowel has saved me so much money and pain.
My dog is THRIVING on garlic and a bit of ACV. No more scratching.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Fiona (Kingston, Ontario) on 09/26/2011
I just called my vet. Chopped garlic/fresh garlic is toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure even with one dose. Please discuss your pet's health with a professional and do not rely on the internet for your dog's health and welfare. They deserve better!
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Garlicisnotsafe (Springvale, Me) on 09/23/2011
★☆☆☆☆
I trust the AVMA more and they clearly state that foods containing garlic should not be fed to dogs! Stop telling people it's safe! See for yourself, the research has been done! Some people have had their dogs die because of garlic! This is so irresponsible on your part!
http://avmajournals.avma.org/doi/abs/10.2460/ajvr.2000.61.1446
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Mary Robbins (Red Bluff, California) on 09/16/2011
Hey I been giving my 5 dogs garlic since they were all 6 weeks old I would never give them that much garlic I cut the garlic cloves in to little cubes and then they each get one cube a week. You don't ever want to overdose on anything- a little goes a long way. Theres no need to be giving them a lot because it may work or it may kill them. Too much of a good thing for any dog is very, very dangerous. Just a little bit, never more. It's like feeding fish- you never want to give them more just a little pinch of fish food and there set. Same thing when your giving dog garlic and no, never use garlic on a pregnant dog- it will make the milk toxic for the puppys. I learned that the hard way.
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Xanadu1jw (Memphis, Tn) on 09/14/2011
Your dog will be fine but for a 13 pounder you don't need that much on a regular basis, probably a half clove chopped into food will be all that is needed. Two clove could be used on a temporary basis say if your dog has an infection of some kind or on a longer term basis if it is something like a severe heartworm infection. Onions now are different as they will give your dog anemia, never give it onion. Garlic though has been used with dogs for centuries with only benefit. It is very strong though and like many good things more doesn't necessarily mean better.
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Ladykati (Fayetteville, Ar) on 09/13/2011
My 13 pound shih tzu/pomeranian mix just ate 2 cloves of garlic in his food. I had been giving him a little bit of garlic salt in his food every morning, but decided to give him a some real garlic today. This was about two hours ago and he seems to be just fine, but I was wondering if he ate too much? Should I take him to the vet or wait to see if he starts acting sick?
Is It Safe?
Posted by Whistleblower (Portland, Maine) on 09/12/2011
★☆☆☆☆
Hold it right there. Put the garlic down! Garlic has a remarkable amount of uses for humans but DO NOT FEED GARLIC TO DOGS!!!!! Garlic breaks down dog's red blood cells leading to anemia and possibly kidney failrure from leaking hemoglobin!!! Check this fact out on any veterinary website or textbook. Shame on you Earth Clinic for suggesting it without doing your research!!
Worms
Posted by Estela From Glendale, California (Glendale, California, Usa) on 09/10/2011
This message is for Karina form Queensland. I have 2 Siberian Huskies, they only eat raw organic meats, I suggest you try this for your baby, and you should have a very healthy doggie, if you can't find organic try to at least find an all natural source for your meats. They eat lamb, chicken, turkey, elk, and ground beef, beef only once in a while, for no reason in particular. I suggest you look up RAW FEEDING, I think this will take care of all your problems. DOG FOOD IS POISON, it causes the death and illness of almost all our pets, not any different than eating junk food. I lost 2 Huskies to liver cancer at 10 and 11 years old, and by luck listened to a friend ans started feeding my 2 new rescued Huskies only raw meat, we are going on our 7th year, not one trip to the vet, other than an occasional check-up, or when my brat ate a bar of soap and got violently ill. It has saved me thousands in vet bills, thank god! Needless to say, a lot of heartaches, for my new babies are thank god very healthy up to now! Other than a flea infestation which I believe they got from the gofers that are digging up our yard, meanwhile leaving behind their little SOB friends, either that or the squirrels at the park, because we have been spending a lot of time in the park, which was never the case before. I'm sure the lawn is filled with them.
Dosage
Posted by Debra Lynn (Lake Stevens, Wa Usa) on 08/30/2011
Please research garlic for animals is only beneficial if provided in oil form. No garlic salt-powder-clove etc. I pop a garlic oil 3mg dietary supplement down both the cat & dog once a week. I use BORAX when I need to clean my home, no bug bombs. Wash bedding and vaccum all in one day. Use a pie plate dish with a little water in the bottom a couple drops of dishsoap will attract any fleas if you need to detect or confirm conquest. Yippee its easy 1-2-3
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Tshona (Scottsdale, Az) on 08/25/2011
Garlic IS deadly for dogs. My poor sheltie just died a few days ago from eating 3.5 ounces of dried garlic he got into. He was totally healthy and fine before that. He was throwing up, became lathargic and with 8 hours was DEAD. I wish I would have know it is toxic to dogs, I would have taken him to the vet and they could have used charcoal on him, blood transfusion to replace the bursting blood cells and/or oxygen treatment. It causes a certain type of anemia and eventually kidney failure.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Anthony (Gainesville, Florida) on 08/10/2011
The same japanese scientists who learned that "garlic" damages canine blood cells also claim it is positive for cardiac and immune health.
What damages cells is not thiosulphate but a disulfide that is part of thiosulphate.
The missing enzyme in dogs is g6pd and it neutralizes the disulfide.
Guess what - about 1 in 12 humans have the same problem (me for one). Garlic does the same to us as it does to dogs. In my case it causes me to feel crappy if I eat too much. G6pd deficiency is one of the most common deficiencies among humans.
Dogs have no g6pd so disulfide damages the blood cells and they are eliminated by the spleen. The bone marrow replaces these cells. If you feed the dog too much disulfide and it injures more blood cells than the bone marrow can replace, anemia results.
This disulfide by-product of thiosulphate is an "oxidant" and "anti-oxidants" will neutralize them just like g6pd does. Stuff like vitamin E are anti-oxidants so if you include them in the dog diet they should prevent harm from disulfide.
Just so you know I only use the word "vet" because it is easier to say than "unlicensed taxidermist" - which in my opinion is what most vets are.
Further I am not a scientist - I learned this stuff just researching on the net.
You should do the same.
So I think the best thing is to make sure the dog gets anti-oxidants (either in food or a supplement) and start out with VERY SMALL doses of garlic. Increase it little by little and see if the dog tolerates it okay. If the dog shows any signs of trouble with a small dose STOP.
It takes a few days for disulfide to damage blood cells, so unless the dog has some kind of other problem it shouldn't harm them right away - like stories I've heard of a dog eating some garlic and getting sick an hour later.
Like I said I have a g6pd deficiency - I don't like raw or cooked onion because they POISON me - but my mother MADE me eat onion when I was a kid. If your dog doesn't like garlic BE CAREFUL. Onion tasted vile to me when I was kid so if garlic repels your dog be careful.
One of my dogs had a hemorrhage and his tongue turned white before he died - you can tell if a dog is anemic by checking the color of the tongue.
Don't take my (or anyone else's) word for it - do your own research.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Vikas (Bangalore, India) on 08/09/2011
★★★★★
After reading all the comments I got confused weather to feed my fod garlic or not. So I decide to call my VET and he told me that I can feed him 2-3 cloves in his food daily. Its not at all harmful to dogs.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Susan (Montesano, Wa. Usa) on 08/07/2011
I have 2 one year old Shih-Tzus. They both have the Shih-Tzu skin problems. I used to like giving garlic to the dogs but was told it was bad for them. Now I am totally confused. How do you give the dogs garlic without them spitting it out?? I mixed garlic powder in their rice while I cook it. I have seen garlic pills. Can they have those?? They are in the vitamin isle at the store. How do you decide how much they can have. Both of my boys are around 11 pounds. My poor bebies are going nuts with them on them. We have used bathes, Bio-Spot (which was useless) Baking soda bathes and now we are seeing them run and hide even if we go to the bathroom for our own use. If garlic is safe then I want to use that. They are our babies and we hate seeing them so agitated. What amount is good? Why not powder?? Isn't that just dried garlic?? The capsules?? How much is good for them? Thanks.
General Feedback
Posted by Charliedog (San Diego, Ca) on 07/25/2011
I've had three dogs that all lived over 14 years. My current dog, a funky mix of lab, retriver, and kangroo. I feed him dry food, always a full bowl, and he eats when he's hungry. His teeth are super white and the vet is imprerssed with how healthy he is. He dosen't beg when my daughter and I are eating. On sundays I give him Cesar wet dog food, funny but it gives him a consept of time (in a way). Bottom line is treat your dog like your best friend (unless you don't like your best friend) c u
General Feedback
Posted by Diamond (Salisbury, Usa) on 07/12/2011
General Feedback
Posted by Kristen (Guess, British Columbia, Canada) on 07/12/2011
★☆☆☆☆
Teenage girl here saying that I would never feed my dog garlic.
Some dogs may have built up better immune systems and just an ability to eat generally anything but all dogs are different and I'd never do anything so risky and because I haven't and I haven't let my parents do that either I would completely disagree with feeding your pets garlic.
Reasons, garlic = thiosulphate = hemolytic anemia = liver damage, vomiting, diarrhea
My dog being feed things I tell my parents not to, but then they do, and then comes vomit and diarrhea and stinky farts and they come ask me whats wrong and I ask them what they've feed her.
I wouldn't trust too many other doctors and vets "looking out only for the care of their patients". It seems that nowadays more and more people of these people were taught how not to get sued and keep their customers, little loopholes, law and logic flaws. Not everyone but alot more have just been thinking just about business. I wanted to be a vet to help other people and their animals. To be part of a community, to be there for those who were in need. BESIDES, I wouldnt suggest such things so vaguely. Other owners may have different values of what "alot" or "frequent" or "often" or "large quantities" Would you cook it? Would you prepare it in any way? How cooked? Boiled, fried, baked, raw?
LOOK AT THE DISCLAIMER
"Our readers offer information and opinions"
Keyword OPINIONS
"Please consult with your veterinarian " "Only your Veterinarian can provide you with advice on what is safe"
Is It Safe?
Posted by Ken (Malinalco, Mexico ) on 06/29/2011
★★★★★
This garlic issue is indeed questionable - at least for dogs which, (according to the authorities) can be killed by it. Many years ago, my sister's dog was diagnosed with kidney and liver failure and consequently to be euthanized. My sister protested and went on to cure her beloved pet with raw meat mixed with garlic and olive oil at every meal. The dog went on to live another 6 years and after a few months was jumping like a puppy. In this case, garlic was definitely not toxic but part of a miraculous cure invented by a young girl of 12.
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Ladyrichards (Fort White, Floria, United States) on 06/27/2011
Yes I just started giving garlic to my dogs because we have such a bad flea problem. We hav 5 dogs 4 German Sheperds and a coon hound and after trying all the money coasting things that dont work I have to try it. I was just wondering how long it should take to work? I am putting 1/2 tsp in food mornig and night of minced garlic and they really seem to like it. I even went as far as to have my yard sprayed and still the fleas are here just as bad, so Im hoping this will work for me. I plan on taking them off of it when flea season is over and then I will start them back right before it begins. I also wonder if anyone can tell me what to do for in my house in the carpet.
Thank you, Lady Richards
General Feedback
Posted by Diamond (Salisbury, Usa) on 06/18/2011
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
I didn't even have to read this whole message of a seasoned garlic salt. That in itself is only a substitute, it has all artificial seasonings as well as salt that can an will do serious harm to an animal, unless it's very small amounts of sea-salt. It's always best to do your(our)foot work before giving any animal what we eat, thats why we are always in the drs. office feeling like we have fallen apart. I did many web searches before I found this site; I do my very best to keep my animals safe & well. Good luck
Dosage
Posted by Linda (Bethel, Pa. Usa) on 06/14/2011
I have 2 Yorkies under 3 pounds I'm wondering how much garlic I can give them for fleas & ticks and how often. I also live in the Mnt. where we have a lot of problems with fleas & ticks. Thanks for any help you can give.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Mary Ann (Slidell, Louisiana) on 06/13/2011
To Vicky from Melborne.... I have been using yeast and garlic tables off n on for years.. Recently my Dobie needed surgery that couldn't be done because her blood wouldn't clot after 1/2 hr. The vet attributed this to Von Willebrands disease but I wonder if it could be the garlic tablets... Are you familiar with this?
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Dog Lover (Ok) on 06/10/2011
FYI: I've read that garlic is ok for dogs but onions are not as they contain a substance that can be very harmful for dogs.
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Angie (Adelaide, South Australia ) on 06/08/2011
I had a beautiful Samoyed dog for seven years from a pup. I routinely added finely chopped fresh garlic to her food with the objective of naturally preventing intestinal parasites and maintaining her good health. I fed her kangaroo mince, with added vitamin/mineral supplement, olive oil, grated veges & 1-2 cloves of fine chopped fresh garlic. I also fed her a premium dried food with no added artificial additives. She NEVER had fleas (something I attributed to the qualities of her thick double coat - but now think was the garlic) and I rarely treated her with chemical medicines for intestinal worms. Once in a while I would treat her, just to make sure. Sadly, I had to give her away when she was seven years old. Happily to a lovely home. The woman, who adopted my dog, took her for a vet check-up on the day she went to live with her. The vet could not get over how healthy my dog was.
I am not saying that everyone should feed their dogs garlic. I am not saying that everyone should not. The difference in how dogs physiologically react to garlic/onions may come down to individual make-up. Just as individual people may be sensitive/allergic to certain foods. I know people who wont eat onions and/or garlic. They say that onions and/or garlic make them 'gassy. ' I, on the other hand love onions/garlic so much that I joke that I cant be friends with people who dont! And I dont have a problem with gas - just in case you were wondering! We have to remember that dogs/cats have been eating our onion/garlic left-overs for centuries and not dropped dead like flies! That is not to say that onion/garlic is the best thing for them. As a Paleolithic-like diet is considered best for the human body (as it has evolved to this diet for thousands of years) it must also be considered that garlic is not a food that your dog/cat would seek out in the wild. I would probably recommend avoiding onions, to be safe, but if you want to give your dog/cat garlic (as I did) use your common sense. Think 'medicinal dose' and remember that a dog/cat is smaller than you and needs smaller dose - best of luck
Dosage
Posted by Linda (San Tan Valley, Az, Usa) on 06/02/2011
First, I would like to say that the recommendations of using 3 drops of hydro. Perioxide and a teasp. of honey worked wonders. I have 2 Cane Corsos and I recently took custody of my females brother who the original owners were not treating very well. He came into our home about 3 weeks ago and just last week (which would have been his second week with us) my female starting this type of gagging every so often every day, so I got online and came across the recommendation and I have to say, this gagging sound is gone. I also read that a dog can be a carrying so I am assuming my guy was a carrier. While treating my female I also treated our guy. Perfect no harsh chemicals. Thank you.
Now I have another ???, while reading this board during my search for KC treatment it was mentioned to give your dog garlic pills odorless ones. So I purchase a bottle of odorless garlic pills 1200 mg, but I am not sure if this is too much. The brand is a respected mfgr. Should I only give once a week, I don't want to hurt my pups, by the way they are both 10 months old and weigh 85 lbs.
Thanks
Is It Safe?
Posted by Vicky (Melbourne, Australia) on 06/02/2011
★☆☆☆☆
Until you have your dog dying from anemia - you will not understand - do NOT feed your dogs, especially NOT cats - garlic or onions. People with dogs that have not died from being fed raw garlic or garlic powders are playing a waiting game, they are taking a few years off the life of their dogs, with the toxic affects of garlic on the animals internal organs.
I'm all for natural products for your animals, but not playing BINGO with you animals life. It scares me so many people happy to blindly follow the crowd on these sites.
If only it was that simple - everyone would be doing it! It certainly is cheaper yes, (until you get the vet bills). My preference is not use all the drugs that vets recommend, but garlic is DANGEROUS for dogs, & I would hate anyone to go through what I did with my poor little dog, thank god she survived - $10,000 later.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Misschris (Nolanville, Tx) on 05/31/2011
My heart goes out to you and your darling, Nell. I too live in TX (Ft Hood area) and about a year and a half ago found out that my 2 female dogs had heartworms. They are sisters and about the same age as your baby. I did not want to subject them to the harsh poison treatment and decided to try and find a natural solution. I had started feeding my dogs raw a few months before I found out, because some of them were having continuous skin problems (little did I know that it was most likely due to the heartworm infection, causing their immune system to be severely compromised).
The regimen I use was developed by Hulda Clark. All my dogs get it daily, since it is also recommended as a preventive measure, not only for the heartworms but other parasites as well. I started the regimen in March 2010. I have developed a way of feeding it to them that they readily accept. I have not gotten them re-tested yet, as we are still in the process of detoxifying and building the immune system. I have seen progress, however, and am hopeful. As it is said with herbal treatment, things SEEM to get worse before they get better, but most of all it takes TIME, and one must be consistant.
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Mags (Coppell, Texas) on 05/27/2011
I'm feeding raw with great success. I'm going to add some garlic to the pups breakfast now. I also use beneficial nematodes to protect against fleas. 3 years ago had the worst infestation - in the HOUSE!!! No problems since using the beneficial nematodes, which also take care of many other pests attacking home & critters!
Is It Safe?
Posted by Nell (San Antonio, Texas) on 05/26/2011
Hi my name is Nell and yesterday I found out my 8yr old schnauzer who weighs 20lbs has heartworms. I cried at the thought of him being sick but even more because of the high costs for treatment that I cannot afford. Please anyone who has dealt with this can you please give me any good home remedies to treat my dog and help me with the dosage since I wouldnt want to overdose him on anything. I really would appreciate any help and advice thank you!!
Is It Safe?
Posted by Danielle (Memphis, Tn) on 05/08/2011
★★★★★
I sprinkle garlic powder on my dog's food every morning and have never had any problems. It gives it an extra taste that they like and I have never had any problems with fleas on them. I even have a friend who works at a shelter and does animal rescue work and she not only takes garlic supplements herself to protect her when she's working with the animals come in but she also adds it to the food of the shelter animals. I think there are so many people out there that are against holistic medicine that they bash things without knowing if they truly work or not.
A few months back I was fostering a German Shepherd who was a heavy HW positive and it was going to be several months before he could begin treatment. I got online and found a wonderful holistic treatment and within the first week, his appetite had increased dramatically along with his energy level and his coat. He went for his 1st treatment about a month later and when he was tested, the vet said that they had never seen anything quite like it, but the baby heartworms were dead and there were only a few adults left.
So I do believe in the power of holistic treatment!
Skin
Posted by Jennieja (Prestatyn, Denbighshire) on 04/30/2011
This is exactly my retrievers problem. I would adore one of her pups but cos of allergies I was thinking we wouldn't be able to breed her as when pregnant she could have the prednisolone. And I hate to think of how uncomfortable she would be. I was thinking about rubbing a garlic paste on her tummy but now thinking of the glove.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Lisa (Saylorsburg, Pa) on 03/26/2011
I know there's plenty of people out there worried about their dogs, that's a good thing. I've given my dogs garlic for about a year so far with no problems. We have 5 dogs from a Border Terrier that's under 10lbs. All the way to a German Shepherd (who has a very sensitive stomach and can only eat certain dog food) who weighs over 80lbs, thankfully we have not had any problems giving them garlic. Watch the amounts, that's the key. I give them garlic twice a week, then off a week. They haven't had a flea or tick during the year I've been doing this, and we live in the woods. Here's an exerpt I found with dosing info. Again, like people, all animals are different so watch what you give an how much.
Dr. Martin Goldstein (author of The Nature of Animal Healing) recommends adding garlic to home-made pet food and he himself feeds garlic to his own cats and dogs on a regular basis. Dr. Pitcairn (author of The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats) recommends the following amount of fresh garlic for dogs, according to their size: * 10 to 15 pounds - half a clove * 20 to 40 pounds - 1 clove * 45 to 70 pounds - 2 cloves * 75 to 90 pounds - 2 and a half cloves * 100 pounds and over - 3 cloves Dr. Messonnier (author of The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs) recommends one clove of fresh garlic per 10 to 30 pounds of weight a day to boost the immune system and cancer prevention. As with most herbs, at least one to two days off per week or a periodic week off from garlic is a good idea.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Debby (Atascadero, Ca) on 03/19/2011
I was affraid to give my little Mitzi the garlic because of some of the testimonies about it causing long term bad effects. I called my vet and she said that a lot of her customers say they use garlic, but she couldn't tell me how much. I sure hope this helps as my poor dogs (We also have a very large Boxer, Spanky :) are just miserable.
Thank you for taking the time to give me all this helpful imformation... I'm going to try it... We, Mitzi, Spanky, my husband and myself, Debby, sure hope it helps :)
Blessings to You and all your little 4 legged friends! Debby
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Linda (Citrus Springs, Florida, U.s.a.) on 03/19/2011
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
Just wanted to mention here... on using that diatomaceous earth, make sure its food grade! The other one is very dangerous to use around our animals. Linda
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by 5 Pooches Home (Houston, Tx) on 03/17/2011
By 'chis' I mean chihuahuas! I have 2 girls who weigh around 5 and 6 pounds.
Yes you can give her garlic anyway she likes. Commercial dog food is bad and maybe your dog is telling you she doesn't like it. If you can, try giving her freshly made homemade food. After a while you won't need any flea control coz when dogs eat homemade diet they have no odor inside or outside so no fleas find them interesting enough to come around. I have 5 dogs and all of them eat homemade and are all vegan. I give them brown rice with bunch of beans and veggies and they love it! No surprise NONE of them have fleas ever or any health or skin condition.
Also you can make your own flea spray and just spray on her while going outside.
1. In big bowl of water (3-4 cups), put in some lemon rinds and bring to boil.
2. Add 3-4 cloves.
3. 3 tablespoon apple cider vinegar. Turn the stove off when its warm enough.
4. If you like, you can add some essential oil like lavendor, tea tree or eucalyptus or neem oil.
5. Let the mixture steep over night. Cover it.
6. Put in spray bottle. Use.
For yard and house, use diatomaceous earth.
Plz. don't use chemicals. Our pets play, lick, lie, jump and relax on the floors and carpets and it goes directly in their skin and in their body when they lick themselves.
You can eaily give her 2 cloves of garlic each day. My chis are smaller and they eat 3-4 cloves each day easily!
Always know it NOT the mother nature's food (grown on earth's soil) that is the problem. Its the commercial dog food that is BAD and thus causes reactions to natural foods or what not! Thus the good thing gets bad publicity like garlic and avocadoes! When will people realize that its the deadly dog food they have been feeding their pet that's causing a reaction??
Good luck! Hope this helps.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Debby (Atascadero, Ca) on 03/16/2011
Well, I'm sorry I don't know what a chis is. How big is it. My Chiwawa is about 7 pounds. I've read a few things about garlic being toxic for dogs, so I want to be sure I'm not giving her too much, but of corse want to give her enough to be effective. So how much for a 7# dog?
Also, she's a pretty "picky" eater, so I'm thinking it may keep her from eating her food, or she'll eat around it. If that happens, would it be OK to just "hide" it in a chunck of cheese; she loves cheese.
Thank you for all your other helpful information, very helpful.
You wouldn't know of any natural methods to get rid of them in the yard. We usually have very heavy freezes here, but haven't had them for a few years and I'm thinking that's why we're having such a flea problem. I really don't want to use chemicals in our yard, but may have to resort to that if this doesn't work :( Any suggestions?)
Thank you, Debby
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by 5 Pooches Home (Houston, Tx) on 03/16/2011
I have 2 chis and I give them plenty of garlic. Never had a worm or fleas. I give 2-3 cloves (medium size) each day. Never had a problem.
I am against garlic powder as that's not the real thing and is a processed food that has been chemically or mechanically altered. Plus it has other things that is no good. Always try to give your pooches the most natural earthy foods.
My chis also eat 100% home cooked meals. You can also give coconut oil in addition. Good for coat and joint problems and prevents OBESITY & diabetes in dogs. Buy a high quality one that is organic or expeller pressed.
Also for fleas as well as skin, after giving your chi a bath with a MILD BABY SOAP FREE SHAMPOO you should massage a good layer of oil on your baby all over - use coconut oil or almond oil or NEEM OIL (available at Indian grocery stores or internation isles or health food store). For skin conditions, NEEM OIL is the best. Mix with coconut or almond oil if you like. Oil is good for dog's skin as it prevents fleas, environmental toxins, pollution, dirt from getting into your dog's skin and thus protects the body as our skin is the biggest absorbing organ. Hope this helps!
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Debby (Atascadero, Ca) on 03/15/2011
We have a 7 pound Chiwawa (can never remember the correct spelling) with fleas. I would like to start giving her garlic. How much and how often should we give it to her? Should I use whole garlic, or can we use powder? Should I be concerned about additives in garlic powder? Could I put the correct size piece of garlic in a piece of cheese? Thank You for your Assistance, Debby
General Feedback
Posted by Must Read For Itching/supposed Allergy Dogs (Portland, Oregon) on 03/05/2011
Garlic is covered well here but you're all missing a condition more and more dogs and people are seriously ill from. So many of you describe severe itching and food allergies etc, and one had blood in stool, etc. Absolutely go read about Candida Albicans overgrowth. It is a yeast we and dogs have normally in our bodies but goes out of control after antibiotics or with poor diet or chemical exposures and then turns into a systemic lifelong seriously dangerous fungus. Please please read:
www.greatdanelady.com/articles/systemic_yeast_mini_course.htm
Note that in humans it's responsible for serious issues many of us are dealing with like fibromyalgia, IBS, leaky gut, blood in stool. It can be deadly but most often just causes constant recurring yeast infections on the skin and leads to mange etc.
MUST READ MUST READ MUST READ
My whole family and dogs have suffered for years and we all show different symptoms but it's all the same cause.
Garlic will mask symptoms but not cure this problem by itself, and this is becoming very very common all the sudden due to all the crap in both our foods, all the hormones and the antibiotics and steroids allmost all meat on the market is loaded with.
PLEASE PASS THE WORD
I am not in any way affiliated with that site I just found the cure to all our ills and wanted to let the word start spreading. Please pass this info around even if you don't include the link to that site.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Seattlesbestemily (Seattle, Wa) on 01/18/2011
If you think garlic is more dangerous for your dog than pesticides you've got bigger problems than a few fleas!!! Garlic works. I've used it for five years on my dog and she's never had fleas... Plus she gets complimented on her coat regularly. Don't be silly... Trust centuries of use over 20 years of chemical company propaganda!
Is It Safe?
Posted by Bill (Dallas, Tx) on 01/18/2011
★★★★★
we have a pyrenees/timberwolf mix , about 135lbs and a lab/pit mix about 70 lbs. both have had a small amount of garlic in their diet since we've had them. they eat twice a day and we give them a sprinkle of garlic for breakfast only. we have never had a flea or tick problem. the only ticks we have ever seen were in georgia and they never attached themselves but fell off on the floor or bed---they fall out of the pines there--
having said that they are super healthy and energetic. their coats are smooth and glossy and we don't smell anything on their breath, their stool is consistant and firm. they get a mix of dry and canned food at every meal and ----hate to say it ----get sunday breakfast with us -bacon and eggs--weekly. moderation is the ticket. don't over do it. make it a normal routine. we do stay away from onions , don't take the chance from my perspective.
Worms
Posted by Karina (Beaudesert, Queensland Australia) on 01/15/2011
After reading all the comments on feeding your dog garlic I decided to try garlic with my 3. 5yr old pure australian kelpie - Who since about the age of two (after a nasty hookworm infection) has been unable to gain weight (he should be 20 - 25kg but weighs in at 16kg) and has nast runny excrement and foul farts. We have had a flea problem for a long time with the dogs as well - I gave him one clove tonight at 9pm and about an hour later he has stopped chewing and scratching so im hoping this works as its a last ditch effort. I have spent too much in vet bills as he had parvo when he was 6weeks old and pulled through and ever since has been in and out of vets. I will make sure I keep you posted on future weight gains and health if this works
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Dan (Paris Crossing, In) on 12/30/2010
You Are So Right Amy!! People Don't Look Up The Fact's , It's to Easy To Get The Heresay............. Don't Be Ignorant! State The Fact's!!
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Amy ( Columbus, Oh) on 12/29/2010
People just because you have a computer doesn't mean everything you read on there is true. I can google anything and there is always 2 sides. Just because it came from National Geographic doesn't me they are the end all be all of knowledge. If you paid any attention to her article you would see that although the chemical that is in onions is also in garlic but a substantially smaller amount. Any almost non existent amount is in garlic. Before you just make posts like they are FACT do a little more digging. There is too much ignorance in the world.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Gerald (Columbus, Ohio Usa) on 12/25/2010
Garlic is ok for a dog, in small doses (like a single clove) But a entire bulb would make anyone sick!
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Jeannie (Dalton, Georgia) on 12/20/2010
Last night my pup she weighs 3 pounds got on the table and ate a huge bulb of garlic. She had stomachache (gas) and had some really bad breath, that was 10 hours ago and shes ok. But it scared me to death. All my life I have herd garlic was good to rid your pet of pests now its poison. I looked on line called my vet and no one would tell me what to do for my pet. She still has a tummy ache but shes playing so I believe shes gonna be ok.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Dana (Mcewen, Tn.) on 11/23/2010
I have read the article about garlic from the the world renowed Dr. Anderson. However I got my information from the world renowed National Geographic. Believe me I always look for alternative things and this is not the only place I've read it because I researched it alot! I know the amount of thiosulphate is not as large in garlic as onions. The dog has to have alot to do damage, thats why I researched the weight. Nothing against any vet or anyone. But their are A LOT of vets I disagree with.
Is It Safe?
Posted by Dana (Mcewen, Tn) on 11/22/2010
I am responding to the latest posts about giving your dog garlic. Garlic in any form breaks down dog's red blood cells, and large amounts over time can lead to anemia and possible kidney failure from leaking hemoglobin. The reason: Dogs don't have proper enzyme to properly breakdown the compound thiosulphate. If a dog eats 0.5 percent of it's own bodyweight in garlic, it can show signs of poison. In other words, five grams (0.18 ounces) of garlic per kilogram (22 pounds) or two grams (0. 7 ounces) of garlic per pound can mean an emergency trip to the vet! Do not give your dog garlic in any form!
Parasites
Posted by Ivy (Longwood, Fla) on 11/16/2010
Both my four year old mutts are allergic to flea bites and will scratch and bite themselves raw. I simply give them one small raw clove of garlic daily and coat it in cream cheese or stuffed in a piece of steak and in three days or less, poof, everything is back to normal. The mosquitoes and bugs leave them along too!
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Deirdre (Alton, Ia) on 10/30/2010
Garlic making dog sick. Could it be msg or a autolyzed yeast extract that made the dog sick?
Infection
Posted by Lyn (San Diego, Ca) on 10/25/2010
★★★★★
My dog suffered from food allergies, scratching, loose stool, and anal glands which needed to be regularly expressed were some of the symptoms. I finally found a holistic vet who got me to put her on a raw food diet and give her enzymes to ease the transition and sure enough she is no longer scratching, her stool is normal and we have not needed to get her anal glands expressed! I would highly recommend this for all dogs who suffer from food allergies!
Parasites
Posted by Bb (Atlanta, Ga Usa) on 10/16/2010
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is wonderful. Important though you ONLY USE FOOD GRADE/Codex.
Do not use the stuff from the garden shops. It must be marked Food Grade. I give it to my dogs & I add it to my smoothies. We are worm free.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Bb (Atlanta, Ga Usa) on 10/16/2010
Garlic is not harmful to dogs. Onions are toxic. I have used powdered & fresh garlic for my dogs for decades without any reaction. The "mix" you used must have had other ingredients that caused the ill effect.
Article by Lisa S. Newman, Nd
Posted by Frank (Kingston, Ny) on 10/13/2010
Hello Doctor,
All I know is that I gave my two dogs pieces of steak that had garlic seasoning on them and here were their symptoms:
Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and both of them had asthmatic attacks. I didn't know garlic could do this either, but now I am convinced! ... Unless the seasoning I used had onions, too, but was not listed for some reason. I've heard that garlic does have a similar compound that is in onions and it depends on how it is fixed. Raw garlic and onions are very toxic, as well as the dried bulbs.
Sincerely, Frank Moretti
Parasites
Posted by Nicolasm (Edmond, Oklahoma, United States) on 09/23/2010
Garlic for whelping dog
Hi! My dog just had puppies about 4 weeks ago and they all had a very small flea problem, but I'm pretty sure I got that cleared up as far as I can tell.. (lots of bathing the mom and flea combing them all and using ACV on her as well) My dog also seems like she has worms, but I honestly can't tell. I don't have the money to take her to the vet right now. I was wondering if it would be alright to give her garlic since she's still nursing the pups, and if so, would the garlic in her milk also help with any worms that may be present in the pups too? Or what would be a better alternative? DE maybe? Any help or information would be much appreciated!
Worms
Posted by Randall (Midlothian, Texas) on 09/20/2010
The feedback garlic/dogs sounds great. This is Summers 2nd day on garlic cloves. Her coat is not as smooth as befor, little rough. She is a 4mo. Boxador groovy dog! So after 5 days seems to be the amount of time for dosages, of course I check her poop for worms going, but today was kinda wierd was when I looked at her poo I seen some thing flat an I looked again an said WHAT she passed a penny an it was tails up lol
Is It Safe?
Posted by Allison (Dallas, Tx) on 06/13/2010
I agree about the companies that sell the flea meds spreading the rumors .If anyone that reads this would do me (and future pets and their owners) a favor and spread this news like a disease! Due to being unemployed at the moment and the fleas in Texas already out of control even after 3 good winter freezes I resorted to an "over the counter spot on" flea treatment for my 2 dogs. I won't mention brand partly because you can't on this site but mainly because THEY ARE ALL BAD! 1 day after applying this treatment to both my 8 lb chihuahua and my 100 lb Akita the Akita started acting lethargic.Within 3 hrs of me noticing her acting a little funny I could not get her to stand, eat, drink and she seemed to be drifting out of consciousness. I knew I needed to get her to the vet but I couldn't lift her and I live alone. It was 5:00 a.m. and I couldn't find anyone awake. Called the local fire station they refused to help. Finally an hour later my boyfriend woke up and I rousted my neighbor.They had to carry my baby out on a blanket.When we arrived at the emergency vet they immediately put her on oxygen and fluids. When I told them her symptoms they asked if I had applied any over the counter flea meds to her. I hadn't even thought of that being the problem. I was horrified! Within minutes I was told there was little hope that she would live. I was hysterical but pulled myself together enough to go lie with her on the floor of the E.R. and hug her and apologize to her for forcing her to sit still as I applied the stuff that would kill her. I held her as they put her to sleep. I hugged her until her heart stopped beating. I weep as I'm writing this as it happened just a week ago.She was a 3 yr old beautiful, sweet, smart, strong and loyal 100 lb Akita .I nursed her through Parvo at 8 weeks old. She was a fighter and this poison in a tube being sold everywhere snuffed out her life too soon. Tell everyone you know this stuff is HORRIBLE! I am so lucky it didn't kill my other dog. When I returned from the vet I washed him like 4 times much to his dismay. Needless to say I am on the hunt for flea treatments that work without risking your dogs health.I am terrified to use anything now. Thanks in advance for taking time to read this. Allison
Is It Safe?
Posted by Ami (Corvallis, Or) on 05/30/2010
That's just the thing, though! ANYTHING in a large dose can be lethal. That same flea medication that you use instead of garlic could easily kill a dog, even if used topically. Yes, garlic could be lethal if ingested in a large dose. So can water, for crying out loud!
Personally, I've done quite a bit of research on garlic because none of the flea treatments I've tried have worked. I switched my dog to a RAW diet in November, and have slowly been inching towards a more natural all-around life for her. Garlic is just another step in the process. The fleas have been ridiculous, and I'm anxious to see if garlic can bring yet another benefit to the natural diet.
Infection
Posted by Tye (El Dorado, Ca) on 05/29/2010
I would look into the ingredients in your dogs food. It sounds like a food allergy to me. A lot of dogs are allergic to the different grains that are put into commercial dog foods..
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Sally (Dallas, Tx) on 05/24/2010
I was very worried that I gave my dog too much garlic and hurt him, but my vet assures me that he does not show signs of garlic poisoning. He is doing much better, but still has high globulin- which is a concern. I will continue with the Brewers Yeast with garlic, but I'm going to stop with the raw garlic.
EC: Thanks for keeping us updated!
Dosage
Posted by Mannalis (Tulsa, Oklahoma) on 05/22/2010
I have 3 dogs, two of which have ticks and the third fleas. My question is, how much garlic can I give them? and in what form (minced, chopped, oil, etc.) works the best? Thank you! -Manna
Fleas and Ticks
Posted by Sally (Dallas, Tx) on 05/21/2010
Hi,
Thank you for the response.
I got the dose of 1 teaspoon per 25 pounds of Brewers Yeast powder off of the jar. It also said the amount could be doubled in the summer. (Which I did not do!)
The amount of raw garlic I got from this website: http://www.natural-dog-health-remedies.com/garlic-for-dogs.html
Dr. Pitcairn (author of The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats) recommends the following amount of fresh garlic for dogs, according to their size:
* 10 to 15 pounds - half a clove
* 20 to 40 pounds - 1 clove
* 45 to 70 pounds - 2 cloves
* 75 to 90 pounds - 2 and a half cloves
* 100 pounds and over - 3 cloves
Dr. Messonnier (author of The Natural Vet's Guide to Preventing and Treating Cancer in Dogs) recommends one clove of fresh garlic per 10 to 30 pounds of weight a day to boost the immune system and cancer prevention.
I feel so bad. I did not know the amounts were high!
I will see the vet in 1 hour. I will post again.
Thanks!!
