Can dogs eat onion?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Damages red blood cells and can cause life-threatening anaemia.
Why
Onion is toxic to dogs in any form (raw, cooked or powdered).
Can dogs eat onion, and why?
Onion is toxic to dogs in any form (raw, cooked or powdered). Damages red blood cells and can cause life-threatening anaemia.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
Damages red blood cells and can cause life-threatening anaemia.
If your dog has eaten onion, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat onion?
Unsafe. Onion is toxic to dogs in any form (raw, cooked or powdered).
What happens if my dog eats onion?
Damages red blood cells and can cause life-threatening anaemia. If your dog has eaten onion, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is onion poisonous to dogs?
Unsafe. Onion is toxic to dogs in any form (raw, cooked or powdered).
Check onion for another pet