Onions contain a compound called N-propyl disulfide, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia. The amount of N-propyl disulfide in onions varies depending on the variety of onion, with red onions containing the highest concentration.
The toxic dose of onion for dogs is not precisely known, but it is estimated to be around 0.5% of the dog's body weight. For example, a 10-pound dog would need to eat about 5 ounces of onion to reach the toxic dose.
Symptoms of onion poisoning in dogs can include:
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Lethargy
* Weakness
* Pale gums
* Rapid heart rate
* Difficulty breathing
If you think your dog may have eaten onions, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment for onion poisoning may include:
* Inducing vomiting
* Giving activated charcoal to absorb the toxin
* Providing intravenous fluids
* Transfusing blood to replace damaged red blood cells
Onion poisoning can be serious, but it is often treatable if caught early.