My 24-pound dog ate a piece of raw onion. Should I be concerned?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  This is a small amount for a dog weighing 24 pounds. He should be fine and I don't anticipate any symptom to occur.
  
  If you see signs of lethargy, call your vet right away.
  
  Check out this article for more information on onion toxicity.

  

  109Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Having eaten a small piece of onion may not have detrimental effects. As with all poisons, the dosage is the determining factor. However you should monitor your dog for the following signs and if any occur within the next 48-72 hours, see a veterinarian immediately:
  
  * Drooling
  * Nausea
  * Vomiting
  * Oral irritation
  * Diarrhea
  * Lethargy
  * Abdominal pain
  * Elevated heart rate and respiratory rate
  * Weakness
  * Exercise intolerance
  * Collapse
  * Pale gums
  
  These are all signs of onion toxicity and should be addressed by your veterinarian or at the nearest veterinary ER.

  

  97Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Potential toxic effects would depend on the amount of onion ingested. Given the small amount ingested, there is likely little cause for concern regarding onion toxicity. Clinical signs are usually related to anemia, methemoglobinemia, and impaired oxygen transportation. Clinical signs may develop many days after ingestion, so it is quite important to monitor for signs such as lethargy, inappetence, collapsing, any vomiting, diarrhea and possibly coughing. If you notice any of these signs I would recommend to take him to your veterinarian for a check up and treatment.

  

  54Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on June 26th, 2017

  A "tiny bit" would likely not cause the symptoms described. A 20lb dog would need to eat about a quarter cup of onions to develop a toxicity. Symptoms typically take several days to develop and may include oral irritation, drooling, GI upset, lethargy, rapid heart rate, panting, pale/blue gums, collapse, abdominal pain or weakness.
  Monitor him for worsening signs. Withhold food for 12-24 hours but allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte. Feed a bland diet in small frequent amounts until symptoms resolve then transition slowly to his regular diet. See your veterinarian if symptoms persist.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful