Can dogs eat it?
Is nutmeg toxic to dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Nutmeg can be toxic to dogs in larger amounts. It contains myristicin, a compound that can cause disorientation, a fast heart rate, raised blood pressure, abdominal pain, and in severe cases seizures. The small amount baked into a slice of spiced cake is unlikely to cause problems. A dog that eats a whole nutmeg or spills a jar needs a call to your vet.
How much is a concern
The risk depends on how much nutmeg is eaten relative to your dog's size. A pinch in a recipe spread across many servings is a tiny amount. A whole nutmeg seed, several teaspoons of ground nutmeg from a spilled jar, or a spice mix eaten in quantity is a different situation.
Small dogs are affected by smaller amounts.
Symptoms of nutmeg poisoning
Signs may include vomiting, disorientation, agitation or unusual behavior, a racing heart, high blood pressure, a dry mouth, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, seizures can occur. Signs can appear within a few hours and may last up to 48 hours.
Tell your vet whether it was whole or ground nutmeg and roughly how much is missing.
Where nutmeg hides
Nutmeg is found in pumpkin spice blends, mixed spice, eggnog, mulled wine spices, gingerbread, rice pudding, custard tarts, and many cake donuts. Eggnog also contains alcohol and raw egg, and mulled wine contains alcohol. Spiced bakes may contain raisins too.
Whole nutmegs are sometimes used in potpourri and decorations.
Storage tips
Keep whole nutmegs and spice jars in closed cupboards rather than on open racks at nose height. Clean up spilled spices immediately. Put potpourri and spiced decorations out of reach, especially during the winter holidays when they are most common. When baking spiced recipes, measure nutmeg over the counter rather than near the floor, and grate whole nutmegs with the dog out of the kitchen.
Key takeaways
- Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can be toxic in larger amounts.
- A little in baked goods is unlikely to cause harm.
- Whole nutmegs and spilled jars are the main concern.
- Signs can last up to 48 hours.