Can dogs eat leeks?

No — toxic to dogs

No. Leeks are in the Allium family with onion and garlic. They damage red blood cells the same way, in raw, cooked, or powder form.

The full picture

Leeks are part of the Allium family and contain the same organosulfoxide compounds that make onion and garlic toxic to dogs. They cause haemolytic anaemia — damage to red blood cells — and the effect is cumulative, so repeated small exposures add up. Leeks are often in soups, stews, and quiches (leek and potato soup, leek and mushroom risotto, cock-a-leekie). Cooking does not destroy the toxicity. Symptoms may not appear for several days. Treat any leek consumption the same as onion: call your vet.

If your dog has eaten leeks

Call your vet. Treat the same as onion exposure. Symptoms may take days to appear.

Risks to watch for

  • Haemolytic anaemia
  • Pale gums
  • Lethargy
  • Dark urine (late sign)
  • Vomiting, diarrhoea

Safe portion size

None. No form of leek is safe.

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Safer alternatives

  • Plain cooked carrots
  • Green beans
  • Courgette

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

One emergency visit for food poisoning can cost £500–£5,000+. Compare UK pet insurance in 60 seconds.

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Related foods

Onions no Garlic no Chives no
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

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Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.