Red: toxic
No, do not give your dog nutmeg. It contains myristicin, a toxin that affects the heart and nervous system in larger amounts.
Why nutmeg is dangerous
Nutmeg is the seed of the nutmeg tree, Myristica fragrans. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, a very large amount can cause hallucinations, disorientation, a racing heart, high blood pressure, dry mouth, abdominal pain and possibly seizures in pets. Symptoms can last up to 48 hours. The American Kennel Club advises keeping dogs away from nutmeg altogether. Both sources also say that the small amount in a recipe rarely causes more than mild stomach pain.
What to watch out for
- Secure the spice rack: Store whole and ground nutmeg out of your dog’s reach, including spice shakers that could fall off the table.
- Do not season their food with it: Nutmeg has no place in a dog’s bowl, including in home-cooked vegetables.
- Biscuit season: Gingerbread, spiced biscuits and pumpkin pie contain nutmeg and often sugar, fat or chocolate. Keep dog biscuits handy instead.
- Mashed potatoes and sauces: Do not share dishes seasoned with nutmeg from your plate.
What if your dog has eaten nutmeg?
If your dog has got hold of a whole nutmeg, a spice shaker or ground nutmeg, call your vet or an emergency service immediately. Be ready to explain exactly what was eaten, roughly how much, when and how much your dog weighs. Do not give home remedies or try to induce vomiting yourself. If it was just a bite of a baked treat, monitor your dog and call as soon as they seem restless, confused or shaky.
If you suspect poisoning, go straight to your vet or an emergency veterinary service.
Check whether your dog is getting the right amount of food in just a minute with our feeding calculator. Our book takes a closer look at feeding: “Hundeernährung und Futterplan” (book in German). For those first weeks with a puppy, try our free Puppy Starter Pack, and for a picture of your dog to hang on the wall, explore dog portraits from your own photo or choose a single portrait.
Further reading
- Christmas with your dog: what to arrange in advance
- Puppy checklist: essential supplies and the first 3 days
- Calculating your dog’s food portions: how much your dog really needs
Sources, accessed on 20.10.2026: Pet Poison Helpline, Nutmeg and Cinnamon Toxicity; American Kennel Club, Can Dogs Eat Nutmeg?
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