Why your 8 kg terrier is the only dog at risk right now
The amount of chives your terrier ate is concerning for his size. While a larger dog might shrug off a few bites, an 8 kg body processes toxins differently. The other dogs aren't showing symptoms because they didn't consume any, but your terrier's red blood cells are already under attack. The toxin builds slowly, so even if he seems normal now, internal damage could be happening.
Since it's been only 20 minutes, there's a small window where the vet might consider interventions to limit absorption. Have his exact weight ready (not just 'small dog') because calculations for treatment depend on precise numbers. If he's a particularly active or anxious terrier, mention that too - increased heart rate can circulate the toxin faster.
What happens inside his body over the next 72 hours
The organosulfur compounds in chives will start breaking down his red blood cells within hours, though you likely won't see outward signs until day 2 or 3. This delayed reaction is why many owners mistakenly think their dog is fine. His body will try to compensate at first by producing new cells, but if too many are destroyed, oxygen transport fails.
Watch for subtle changes like slightly pinkish urine (from hemoglobin spillover), faster breathing after mild activity, or sleeping more than usual. These often appear before the classic signs like weakness or gum discoloration. Small dogs deteriorate faster once symptoms start, so don't wait to see obvious illness - by then he may need hospitalization.
Why raw garden chives are more dangerous than cooked ones
The raw chives your terrier ate contain undiluted toxins, unlike cooked ones where some compounds break down. Fresh from the garden means higher concentrations of the harmful substances too - commercial chives may sit on shelves losing potency, but these were at peak strength. The fact that he ate them directly, not mixed into food, also means he got a full dose with nothing to slow absorption.
Estimate how many chive stems he actually consumed - a 'handful' could mean 5-10 grams for a small dog. Try to find any remaining pieces in the garden to show the vet. If he dug them up himself, there's additional risk from soil bacteria or pesticides, so mention that detail. His small size makes even minor additional toxins problematic.
What to track until you reach the vet
Start a notepad with the exact time of ingestion (20 minutes ago) and record any behavior changes, no matter how minor. Note his gum color now while they're still pink - press gently on them and see how quickly the white spot returns to pink. Time it; slowing capillary refill is an early warning. Check his pulse at rest - small dogs normally have faster heart rates, but anything over 140 bpm warrants mentioning.
Prevent him from exercising - keep him crated or on a short leash. Activity increases oxygen demand when his blood may soon struggle to deliver it. Offer water but no food until the vet advises - an empty stomach helps if they need to administer medications. If he vomits, save a sample in a baggie without forcing him to drink anything to induce it.
The step-by-step response, from the first minute to the vet visit, is in our Chives, Garlic & Allium Poisoning in Dogs and Cats emergency guide.