✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-09-27
Can dogs eat ginger?
The full picture
Ginger is one of the few spices that's genuinely safe and mildly beneficial for dogs. It has anti-nausea properties (often recommended for car-sick dogs) and mild anti-inflammatory effects. A small pinch of fresh grated ginger or dried ginger mixed into food is safe. What's not safe: ginger biscuits (usually contain raisins and spices), crystallised ginger (too much sugar), ginger beer/ale (carbonation and sugar), and anything with 'ginger spice' blends that include nutmeg or cloves.
The blood-thinning caution is worth taking seriously rather than skimming past: ginger has a mild natural anti-clotting effect, and combined with prescription blood thinners or before surgery, this can meaningfully increase bleeding risk. If your dog is on any blood-thinning medication, has an upcoming surgery or dental procedure, or has a known clotting disorder, check with your vet before giving ginger in any form, even the small "helpful" amounts described above.
Risks to watch for
- GI upset in large amounts
- Shouldn't be given to dogs on blood-thinning medication
- Ginger-based products often have toxic additions
Potential benefits
- Anti-nausea (helpful for car sickness)
- Mild anti-inflammatory
- May soothe upset stomachs
Hidden sources to check
- Pickled ginger (sushi garnish) — high in sugar, salt, and sometimes vinegar/food colouring, not the same as plain fresh ginger
- Ginger tea or ginger shots — often contain added lemon, honey in large amounts, or other ingredients beyond plain ginger
- Chinese, Thai, or other Asian takeaway dishes — ginger is frequently paired with garlic, onion, or soy sauce in the same dish
- Ginger nut biscuits and ginger cake — sugar, sometimes raisins, and spice blends that may include nutmeg
Safe portion size
A pinch (⅛ tsp for small, up to ½ tsp for large) occasionally.
And while you're thinking about what's good for your dog, keeping on top of flea and parasite prevention is just as important as diet.