Is Garlic Toxic to Dogs?
For a very long time, there has been the assumption that garlic is toxic for dogs and that one should never feed them any food or supplement containing garlic. The question that remains is: Is garlic actually toxic to dogs? The answer is no! While it is crucial to know the proper dosage for your dog, there are many health benefits of garlic for dogs.
Benefits of Garlic for Dogs
Garlic is a great source of vitamins and minerals and is high in inulin and amino acids. Inulin is a prebiotic fiber that helps support healthy gut functions. Garlic contains vitamin A,C, B-Complex, sulfur, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and manganese. It can act as a liver enhancer helping to break down toxins and waste in your dog’s digestive system. It is also said to help lower blood sugar and cholesterol.
Garlic can also help to detox the body and eliminate harmful bacteria that may be causing your pup some trouble. It is a natural antibiotic, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and can be used as a natural flea or tick repellent. Fleas and ticks despise the smell of garlic so if you start feeding it a couple weeks before the tick season approaches it will have enough time to build up in their system naturally deterring these pests.
It's crucial to be aware of any underlying health conditions or ongoing medications your pup may have before introducing garlic into their diet. Consulting with your trusted veterinarian or a qualified nutritionist is the best practice in such cases. With the right guidance, garlic can be a valuable addition to your dog's diet, offering not only flavor but a host of potential health benefits!
