Can My Dog Eat Gingerbread?

No. Gingerbread is not likely to be toxic for dogs, and ginger itself can be healthy in small amounts. However, gingerbread often contains nutmeg, which can be dangerous for dogs in large quantities. That’s because nutmeg contains a toxin called myristicin that doesn’t agree with dogs’ stomachs.

Also, gingerbread is high in sugar and fats, which are both harmful in large doses. Specifically, too much can cause pancreatitis in dogs, which can be painful or even fatal, so gingerbread is not a part of a healthy diet for any dog. If your dog has eaten gingerbread and has an upset stomach, a bland diet of rice and unseasoned chicken or ground beef may help.

Symptoms to Watch For

These are symptoms of nutmeg toxicity, which would likely only occur if your dog ate a very large quantity of gingerbread. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet about any concerns. Symptoms of nutmeg poisoning include:

Disorientation
Increased heart rate
High blood pressure
Dry mouth
Abdominal pain

Healthy Alternatives

If you want to make gingerbread men or even a gingerbread doghouse for your dog this holiday season, we’ve got you covered with healthy recipes designed just for your dog.

For More Information

We’ve got tons of articles about which foods are safe or dangerous for your dog, from common snacks to fruits. You might also be interested in “Can My Dog Eat Cinnamon Rolls?”