Can dogs eat ginger?

Yes — small amounts can help

Yes. A small amount of fresh or ground ginger is safe for dogs and can actually help with nausea. Ginger biscuits and crystallised ginger are not.

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.

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

Safe portion size

A pinch (⅛ tsp for small, up to ½ tsp for large) occasionally.

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Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.