Can Dogs Eat Nutmeg? No: Toxic Dose, Symptoms & What to Do

Toxic

No, nutmeg is toxic to dogs

Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, disorientation, a fast heart rate and seizures in dogs in larger amounts. A trace in baked goods is unlikely to cause problems, but never feed nutmeg or let your dog eat it from the spice jar.

If your dog ate nutmeg: call your vet or animal poison control now: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661. Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.

Nutmeg for dogs at a glance

Can dogs eat it?	Toxic
Calories	Not recommended as a treat
Main benefit	None for pets
Main risk	Myristicin affects the nervous system
Puppies?	No

Symptoms to watch for

Disorientation or hallucinations
Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
Dry mouth and abdominal pain
Seizures (large amounts)

Why it is dangerous

Risks

Myristicin affects the nervous system
Large amounts (such as from a spice jar) can cause serious poisoning
Holiday foods with nutmeg also contain sugar, butter and sometimes xylitol

How to keep your dog safe

Store spices out of reach
Avoid sharing eggnog, pumpkin pie and spiced baked goods
Call your vet if your dog ate a spoonful or more

What to do if your dog ate nutmeg

Work out how much was eaten, when, and your dog's weight. Keep any packaging.
Call your vet or animal poison control now: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Follow your vet's advice even if your dog seems fine: treatment works best before signs start.

Safer treats to give instead

These are safe for dogs in treat-size amounts:

Planning treats? Check your dog's full daily needs with the dog food calculator or dog calorie calculator.

Nutmeg and dogs: FAQ

Can dogs have nutmeg?

No. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, disorientation, a fast heart rate and seizures in dogs in larger amounts. A trace in baked goods is unlikely to cause problems, but never feed nutmeg or let your dog eat it from the spice jar.

How much nutmeg is toxic to dogs?

Serious signs are linked to large amounts, such as a teaspoon or more for a small dog. A tiny amount in a baked good is unlikely to cause poisoning, but call your vet if you are unsure.

Can dogs eat pumpkin pie?

It is best not to share it: it contains nutmeg, sugar and fat. Plain canned pumpkin is a safe alternative.

Can puppies eat nutmeg?

No. Puppies are smaller and more vulnerable than adults, so the risks are greater. Call your vet if your puppy ate any.

More "can dogs eat" guides

Browse lists: human foods dogs can eat · foods dogs can't eat

Sources

This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs. Dogs with medical conditions (such as diabetes, pancreatitis, kidney disease or food allergies) may need different advice from their vet.

Can Dogs Eat Nutmeg?