Growli
Let's go

Pet safety

Is Leek toxic to dogs?

Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum 'Musselburgh'

Toxic to dogs

Yes — leek is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. This classification follows the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List. ASPCA lists Allium species (including leeks, onions, garlic and chives) as toxic to dogs and cats. They contain organosulfoxides that convert on chewing to compounds causing oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Cats are most susceptible. Signs include vomiting, weakness, pale gums, lethargy and dark urine; cooking does not remove the toxin.

What to do if your dog ate leek

  1. Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and move leek out of reach.
  2. Note how much was eaten and when, and watch for drooling, vomiting, or lethargy.
  3. Do not induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist instructs you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice.
  5. Bring a leaf or photo of leek to the appointment so it can be treated correctly.

General guidance, not veterinary advice. If you think your dog has eaten leek, contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 — do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

Is leek toxic to dogs? — FAQ

Is leek toxic to dogs?

Yes — leek is toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Keep it well away from any dog that chews plants; reactions can be significant. ASPCA lists Allium species (including leeks, onions, garlic and chives) as toxic to dogs and cats. They contain organosulfoxides that convert on chewing to compounds causing oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Cats are most susceptible. Signs include vomiting, weakness, pale gums, lethargy and dark urine; cooking does not remove the toxin.

What are the symptoms if a dog eats leek?

ASPCA lists Allium species (including leeks, onions, garlic and chives) as toxic to dogs and cats. They contain organosulfoxides that convert on chewing to compounds causing oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to Heinz-body haemolytic anaemia. Cats are most susceptible. Signs include vomiting, weakness, pale gums, lethargy and dark urine; cooking does not remove the toxin. Signs usually appear soon after chewing rather than hours later — watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy after your dog has had access to leek.

What should I do if my dog ate leek?

Stay calm. Remove any plant from your dog's mouth and take the plant away. Note how much was eaten and when, and do not induce vomiting unless told to. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 and follow their advice; a leaf or photo helps the vet treat it correctly.

Is leek toxic to cats too?

The ASPCA classification Growli uses applies to both cats and dogs: Leek is toxic to cats as well. See the full leek pet-safety guide for both species.

What is a dog-safe alternative to leek?

For a similar look without the risk, see the best dogs-safe plants list — every plant there is ASPCA non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Full leek pet-safety