Can Dogs Eat Nutmeg?
No. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which in dogs can cause disorientation, a racing heart, tremors and seizures. A pinch in food rarely causes problems, but it shouldn't be part of their diet.
Why it's dangerous
Myristicin is an aromatic compound in nutmeg that acts on the nervous system. In small amounts, like the pinch in a white sauce or a cake, it's unlikely to cause symptoms; the danger comes when a dog eats a whole nutmeg, part of a jar of ground nutmeg or a heavily spiced treat. Signs can last up to 48 hours: disorientation, hallucinations (the dog seems to see things that aren't there), a fast pulse, high blood pressure, dry mouth, belly pain and, in severe cases, seizures.
In the US and UK it's easy to find in pumpkin pie, eggnog, pumpkin spice treats, gingerbread, sweet potato casserole and spice blends, as well as in béchamel sauce for lasagna. Many of these also contain sugar, fat, alcohol or onion. That's why we never use it in our dog recipes.
Is any amount safe?
There's no recommended amount. An accidental pinch in a dish isn't usually a concern, but a whole nutmeg or a teaspoon of ground nutmeg can cause symptoms, especially in small dogs.
Risks
- Myristicin: neurological and heart effects
- Whole nutmeg or a jar of ground spice
- Pumpkin pie, pumpkin spice treats and sweet potato casserole
- Eggnog, gingerbread and spiced cookies
Frequently asked questions
How much nutmeg is toxic to a dog?
There's no exact figure for dogs. The amounts used in cooking, a pinch in a dish, are considered unlikely to cause symptoms, while a whole nutmeg or a teaspoon of ground nutmeg can cause disorientation and a racing heart, especially in small dogs. With amounts like those, call your vet.
Can dogs eat pumpkin pie or eggnog?
No. Pumpkin pie usually contains nutmeg, sugar and butter, and eggnog adds nutmeg, sugar, lactose and often alcohol. A bite isn't usually serious, but they aren't dog food. If your dog ate a good portion, especially if they're small, call your vet. Plain cooked pumpkin, on the other hand, is safe.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.