I believe it all has to do with amount and the way it is given. If I remember correctly you have a very small dog, so I would only give a very small amount if you think it is necessary. I do understand your confusion though, in the 1990's everyone was toting garlic pills for dogs, then a few years ago I read that it is toxic to dogs and should not be given. But I believe I read somewhere that the caution was put out so that people did not give their dogs food that were seasoned with garlic.