🧅 Dog Onion Toxicity Calculator
Calculate the approximate dose of oxidizing compounds from onions or garlic to evaluate toxicity risk.
Emergency tip
Onion and garlic can cause hemolytic anemia. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog shows weakness, pale gums, or vomiting.
How to Use This Calculator
Identify ingredients
Estimate how much onion, garlic, or seasoned food your dog consumed.
Input weight and amount
Enter your dog’s weight and the ingested quantity with units.
Call your vet
Share calculator results with your veterinarian for tailored medical advice.
Formula
Total toxin (mg) = Amount (g) × mg/g for onion type
Dose (mg/kg) = Total toxin ÷ Weight (kg)
Hemolysis often occurs between 15–30 mg/kg of oxidizing compounds. Lower thresholds can cause vomiting or diarrhea.
Full Description
All Allium species (onions, garlic, leeks, chives) contain thiosulfate compounds that damage canine red blood cells. Even small amounts can lead to Heinz body anemia over several days.
Immediate veterinary care may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, and monitoring blood values. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy or transfusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are onion-flavored snacks safe?
Avoid sharing any foods seasoned with onion or garlic powder—they can contain concentrated toxins.
How soon will symptoms appear?
GI signs may occur within hours; anemia signs (weakness, pale gums) may take 1–3 days.
What about cumulative exposure?
Repeated small doses can accumulate. Prevent all access to onion-containing foods.
Is garlic safer than onion?
No. Garlic is even more potent per gram. Treat any ingestion seriously.