🐾Is It Safe?

Can my dog eat Nutmeg?

🌰

Do not feed

TOXIC — myristicin causes hallucinations and seizures.

DANGER

Veterinary emergency

If your dog ate this, call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 or go to your nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.

What this means

Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause disorientation, increased heart rate, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and potentially seizures. It is commonly found in baked goods, eggnog, and holiday recipes. Always check ingredients.

Key compound:Myristicin

Symptoms to watch for

disorientationincreased heart ratedry mouthabdominal painhallucinationsseizures

Note for medium dogs (20–60 lbs)

Any ingestion warrants contact with ASPCA Poison Control.

Reviewed against

For reference only — not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog's health.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat Nutmeg?
No, dogs should not eat Nutmeg. Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause disorientation, increased heart rate, dry mouth, abdominal pain, and potentially seizures. It is commonly found in baked goods, eggnog, and holiday recipes. Always check ingredients.
My dog ate Nutmeg, what should I do?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Possible symptoms include: disorientation, increased heart rate, dry mouth, abdominal pain, hallucinations, seizures.
How much Nutmeg is toxic to a dog?
Even small amounts of Nutmeg can be harmful to dogs due to Myristicin. The toxicity depends on the dog's size and how much was consumed. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance specific to your situation.
Is Nutmeg poisonous to puppies?
Yes, Nutmeg is especially dangerous to puppies because they are smaller and their bodies are still developing. Puppies may experience more severe symptoms than adult dogs. Contact a veterinarian immediately if a puppy consumes Nutmeg.
Does my dog’s size matter when eating Nutmeg?

Small dogs: Even a small amount of nutmeg is dangerous for small dogs.

Medium dogs: Any ingestion warrants contact with ASPCA Poison Control.

Large dogs: Still dangerous — monitor for symptoms and contact a vet.

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