Can dogs eat leek?
No. Leek is an allium, like onion and garlic, and it is toxic to dogs. All parts of the plant are harmful, even when cooked or dried. It can damage red blood cells, and signs often take a few days to appear.
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Why
It belongs to the allium family (onion, garlic, leek, chives), which is toxic to dogs. These plants contain compounds that damage red blood cells and can lead to anaemia. All parts and all forms are harmful: raw, cooked, dried and powdered. Stomach upset can happen with any amount; larger amounts damage the blood.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Eating less than usual
- Tummy upset, even after small amounts
- Signs of anaemia (damaged red blood cells), usually a few days later
What to do
Contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away. Note what was eaten (leek) and roughly how much. Don't wait for signs: damage to the blood usually shows only a few days later.
24-hour help by country →Questions and answers
Is leek as dangerous as onion?
Garlic and onion are the most common causes of poisoning, but leek belongs to the same toxic plant family and should be treated the same way.
Is it safe when cooked or as powder?
No. Raw, cooked, dried, powdered and liquid forms are all poisonous to dogs.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual
- Onion and garlic poisoning in dogs — PDSA (Published: September 2022)
- Onion, Garlic, Chive, and Leek Toxicity in Dogs — VCA Animal Hospitals
- Poisonous foods for dogs — Blue Cross
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.