✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-04
Can dogs eat nutmeg?
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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 already eaten nutmeg
- A light dusting of nutmeg on food rarely causes more than mild stomach upset
- Eating a whole nutmeg, or a nutmeg-heavy dish like pumpkin pie, warrants a vet call — especially for small dogs
- Call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 if you're unsure
Risks to watch for
- Disorientation and hallucinations
- Rapid heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Seizures at high doses
- Abdominal pain and vomiting
Hidden sources to check
- 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
Safe portion size
None.
Safer alternatives
- Plain pumpkin (no spice)
- Cinnamon in very small amounts
While you're checking what your dog can safely eat, make sure their flea and worm protection is up to date too.
Common questions
What happens if a dog eats nutmeg?
- A light dusting of nutmeg on food rarely causes more than mild stomach upset
- Eating a whole nutmeg, or a nutmeg-heavy dish like pumpkin pie, warrants a vet call — especially for small dogs
- Call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 if you're unsure
What are the symptoms of nutmeg poisoning in dogs?
Common signs include: Disorientation and hallucinations; Rapid heart rate; High blood pressure. Symptoms may appear within hours. Contact your vet immediately.
How much nutmeg is toxic to dogs?
There is no safe amount of nutmeg for dogs. Even small quantities can cause harm depending on your dog's size and health. Treat any ingestion as potentially serious.
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.