Can dogs eat leeks?
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 already eaten leeks
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.
Safer alternatives
- Plain cooked carrots
- Green beans
- Courgette
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