a composition and method for enhancing immune response and improving the overall health of canines is provided which includes feeding the canines a dietary composition containing an effective amount of garlic in an amount of from about 1 to 10 g / kg diet . the dietary composition , when fed to canines , provides antioxidant , anticancer , and immunomodulatory benefits . the canines are fed the composition containing an effective amount of garlic in a quantity and frequency appropriate for their nutritional needs resulting in an enhanced immune response by increased lymphocyte blastogenesis and improves the overall health of the animal .