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Is garlic effective for dog fleas and ticks, or is it toxic?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Female | unspayed | 7 years and 10 months old | 27 lbs

I have been told that garlic tablets are a good flea and parasite repellent and are good for your dog but have also read elsewhere that garlic is not good to give to dogs. Can you clarify this for me?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Heidi. Garlic tablets will not be an effective method of flea and tick control. Furthermore, garlic can actually be toxic to dogs. It can damage the red blood cells. Fleas and ticks can spread diseases to your pet. It is best to use approved products that are known to be safe and effective in controlling them. I hope this information helps!

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 17th, 2018

    Garlic is toxic and will not get rid of fleas. I'd be very surprised if a vet recommended this and they could be held liable for malpractice if they did in-fact recommend this. I think it's more likely that someone who was mistaken as a vet made this recommendation. This happens quite often. Below is a link to an article with great information about garlic toxicity. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/onion-garlic-chive-and-leek-toxicity-in-dogs I hope that helps.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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