High🐶
My dog ate onion
Onion, garlic, shallot and leek destroy a dog's red blood cells (hemolytic anemia). Raw, cooked or powdered — all remain toxic.
Signs within 1–5 days. Repeated small exposures may be enough.
Danger
High
Timing
Signs within 1–5 days. Repeated small exposures may be enough.
Severity
Vet advice required
Symptoms to watch
- Tiredness, weakness
- Pale or yellowish gums
- Dark urine
- Vomiting, loss of appetite
Do immediately
- 1Estimate the amount ingested.
- 2Call a vet, especially if > 0.5 % of body weight.
- 3Watch gums and energy levels over 3–5 days.
Absolutely avoid
- Avoid any processed food containing onion powder.
- Don't assume cooked = safe.
When to call the vet
Emergency if pale gums or marked lethargy.
FAQ
What about a bit of onion-flavored sauce?
Rarely dramatic in trace amounts, but always avoid.
Prevention tips
- Keep medicines, toxins and small objects in closed cabinets.
- Watch for changes in appetite, stool, breathing or behaviour.
- Prepare a card with weight, history and vet contact for your pet.
Other emergencies to know
This content is educational and does not replace a veterinary consultation.