- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
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
What Else Can Your Dog Eat?
You may also be interested in Can My Dog Eat Cinnamon Sticks?
We offer a collection of articles on foods that are safe, dangerous or even toxic for dogs to eat, including vegetables, dairy, bread, and junk food. There is a wide variety of “human food” that is healthy for your dog to eat, while others are considered toxic and dangerous. Check out which fruits and veg are good for your dog here and which spices and seasonings are ok to give to your furry little buddy here. We’ve created these articles to ensure you’re informed on feeding your dog a wonderfully varied diet while learning the limitations of a dog’s sensitive digestive system.
We may be know for our great advice on anything dog-related here at Rover.com but we also have loads of fantastic dog walkers and sitters who offer dog boarding in your area so get ready to meet your dog’s perfect match!