Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

My 4‑kg puppy ate three raw chive leaves that fell on the kitchen floor an hour ago; is that amount dangerous?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, three raw chive leaves are enough to start red blood cell damage in a 4‑kg puppy and you need veterinary help now. Chives belong to the onion family and they destroy red blood cells, leading to anemia. Even a single leaf can be unsafe for a dog that small, so there is no safe portion. I tell owners to scoop the leaves with a spoon, keep the puppy calm, and watch for vomiting, weakness, or pale gums. Call your vet or the ASPCA Poison Control (888‑426‑4435) immediately.

Leek & chives — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic, same family as onion and garlic. Causes red blood cell damage and anemia.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Leek & chives should not be given to dogs at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Garlic and onion damage a pet's red blood cells and can bring on anaemia. Signs are often delayed for several days, so looking fine straight afterwards does not rule it out.

Leek & chives has no place in everyday feeding: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged after this and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Leek & chives food facts page.

Open the full food page: Leek & chives food facts →