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

My 12‑kg dog managed to eat an entire bunch of chives, roughly five stalks, within the past 15 minutes—what's the risk?

Dogs · Food safety

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

Short answer

Yes, this is an emergency. Chives belong to the allium family and can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia even after a single large exposure. Five stalks for a 12‑kg dog is enough to cause vomiting, weakness, and dark urine. Call your veterinarian right away or the ASPCA Poison Helpline at 888‑426‑4435 for immediate advice.

Chives — Food safety facts

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

An allium, like onion and garlic. Damages red blood cells and causes anaemia.

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

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.

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 Chives food facts page.

Open the full food page: Chives food facts →