Spices
Can dogs eat nutmeg?
If your dog ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
A large ingestion of nutmeg can cause toxicity in dogs, though the small amount used in a typical recipe is unlikely to cause more than an upset stomach.
Toxic principle: myristicin
Watch for
- disorientation
- hallucination-like behavior
- elevated heart rate
- high blood pressure
- dry mouth
- abdominal pain
- tremors
- seizures in severe cases
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat nutmeg?
A large ingestion of nutmeg can cause toxicity in dogs, though the small amount used in a typical recipe is unlikely to cause more than an upset stomach.
What should I do if my dog ate nutmeg?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with nutmeg and dogs?
disorientation, hallucination-like behavior, elevated heart rate, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain, tremors, seizures in severe cases. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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