You love garlic bread, and so does your dog. But before you give in to those puppy eyes and toss them a piece, you should know that garlic bread is not good for dogs. In fact, it can be very dangerous for them. In this article, we will explain why garlic and garlic bread are bad for dogs, and what to do if your dog eats some. The bottom line is: dogs cannot eat garlic bread. Keep reading to learn more.
The Origins and Uses of Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a mouthwatering dish that consists of bread, typically a baguette, topped with olive oil and garlic, and baked until crisp and flavorful. Some people also enjoy adding cheese, oregano, or chives to enhance the taste. (Are you tempted yet?)
Garlic bread, however, is not a recent creation. It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Different civilizations, such as the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians, had their own variations of garlic bread and it was a prevalent food in the Middle Ages, particularly in France.
Garlic served not only as a food, but also as a medicine. It has potent properties that can combat infections and diseases. It was used to cure plague sores in the 14th century and to heal wounds in World War I. It was a common remedy before the discovery of penicillin.
Why You Shouldn’t Feed Your Dog Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a tasty treat for humans, but not for dogs. Garlic can be poisonous to dogs and harm their health if they eat too much of it. Garlic bread also has a lot of oil and butter that can upset your dog’s stomach and cause digestive problems.
So, instead of sharing your garlic bread with your dog, enjoy it yourself and offer your dog something healthy and safe, like apple slices or bell pepper pieces.
What are the signs of garlic poisoning in dogs?
Garlic is dangerous for dogs and can cause serious health problems. If your dog has ingested garlic, you need to contact your veterinarian immediately. Some symptoms of garlic toxicity in dogs are:
- Low energy
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Rapid breathing
- Weakness
However, these symptoms may not appear right away. Your dog may seem fine for a few days after eating garlic, but that does not mean they are safe. It is important to get your dog checked by your vet as soon as possible.
What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Garlic Bread,?
Don’t panic.
The amount of garlic bread your dog ate may not be harmful, depending on their size. Garlic can cause blood problems in dogs, but only if they consume 15-30 grams of garlic per kilogram of body weight. A single clove of garlic weighs about 7 grams, so your dog would need to eat a lot to get sick.
Monitor your dog’s health for the next few days and look for any signs of discomfort. If you are concerned, consult a veterinarian. Garlic can also cause stomach upset in some dogs.
If your dog has digestive issues, make sure they stay hydrated and feed them small servings of mild food, such as turkey and rice or chicken with sweet potato. This will help them recover and satisfy their appetite.
