Can dogs eat nutmeg?
Caution
Avoid giving it. The small amount in baked food is very unlikely to cause serious harm, but a large amount of nutmeg can make a dog seriously ill.
Also searched as: nutmeg spice, pumpkin spice, myristicin
If your dog has eaten ground nutmeg or whole nutmeg rather than a little in food, contact your vet.
When it is a problem
Nutmeg contains myristicin. Pet Poison Helpline says the small amount used in recipes is very unlikely to cause serious toxicity, though it may cause mild stomach upset. A very large amount can cause hallucinations, disorientation, a fast heart rate, high blood pressure, abdominal pain or even seizures.
Symptoms to watch for
- Stomach upset
- Disorientation
- Fast heart rate
- Abdominal pain
- Seizures (large amounts)
Sources
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Pet Poison Helpline: Nutmeg and cinnamon toxicity
checked 8 October 2026
The small amount of nutmeg used in recipes is very unlikely to cause serious toxicity
mild stomach upset could occur if a small amount is ingested
If a very large amount of nutmeg is ingested, myristicin toxicity can cause symptoms including hallucinations, disorientation, increased heart rate, high blood pressure
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American Kennel Club: Can dogs eat nutmeg?
checked 8 October 2026
In dogs, myristicin causes drastic and harmful reactions, including high blood pressure, hallucinations, increased heart rate, abdominal pain, or even seizures.
Last reviewed . How we check foods
This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.