Last reviewed against current UK veterinary guidance in April 2026

Can dogs eat nutmeg?

No — nutmeg is toxic

No. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which is toxic to dogs and can cause disorientation, rapid heart rate, and seizures in larger amounts.

The full picture

Nutmeg is a surprisingly dangerous spice for dogs. It contains myristicin, a compound that causes disorientation, abdominal pain, rapid heart rate, and at higher doses, seizures. The practical issue is that nutmeg hides in many autumn and Christmas foods: pumpkin pie, eggnog, mulled wine, spiced biscuits, Christmas pudding, and sweet potato casserole. A light dusting on food probably won't seriously harm a big dog, but any deliberate feeding should be avoided. Cinnamon is much safer if you want a dog-friendly warming spice.

If your dog has just eaten nutmeg

Do this now

  1. A light dusting of nutmeg on food rarely causes more than mild stomach upset
  2. Eating a whole nutmeg, or a nutmeg-heavy dish like pumpkin pie, warrants a vet call — especially for small dogs
  3. Call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 if you're unsure

Where nutmeg hides

Nutmeg can turn up in foods you wouldn't expect. Check for it in:

  • Pumpkin pie and pumpkin spice products
  • Eggnog, mulled wine, mulled cider
  • Christmas pudding, mince pies, stollen
  • Spiced biscuits, gingerbread, hot cross buns
  • Sweet potato casserole, béchamel sauce
  • Ras el hanout, garam masala, and other spice blends

Risks to watch for

  • Disorientation and hallucinations
  • Rapid heart rate
  • High blood pressure
  • Seizures at high doses
  • Abdominal pain and vomiting

Safe portion size

None.

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Safer alternatives

  • Plain pumpkin (no spice)
  • Cinnamon in very small amounts

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

One emergency visit for food poisoning can cost £500–£5,000+. Compare UK pet insurance in 60 seconds.

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Related foods

Cinnamon caution Pumpkin yes Chocolate no
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 Last verified: April 2026

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.