Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?
UNSAFE Category: Nut · Source verified September 2026
Macadamia nuts are uniquely toxic to dogs, though the mechanism remains unknown. As few as six nuts can sicken a large dog. Signs typically appear within 12 hours and most dogs recover with supportive care, but the combination of hind-end weakness and tremors is distinctive enough that vets recognize it quickly.
How much is dangerous?
- Clinical signs have been reported from as little as 2.4 g of macadamia nuts per kg of body weight — about 10 g, a small handful, for a 10 lb dog.
- Reported ingestions causing illness range up to 62.4 g/kg, but macadamia toxicosis is rarely life-threatening — most dogs recover fully within 48 hours.
- The toxin has never been identified, so there is no “safe dose” math — assume any amount a small dog can swallow is enough to cause signs.
Dose data: Merck Veterinary Manual: Macadamia Nut Toxicosis in Dogs.
Symptoms to watch for
- weakness in hind legs
- vomiting
- tremors
- fever
- depression
Signs usually appear within 12 hours, and most dogs recover within 24–48 hours.
If you suspect poisoning: call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (available 24/7). Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Quick answers
Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?
No. Macadamia nuts are uniquely toxic to dogs, though the mechanism remains unknown. As few as six nuts can sicken a large dog. Signs typically appear within 12 hours and most dogs recover with supportive care, but the combination of hind-end weakness and tremors is distinctive enough that vets recognize it quickly.
How much macadamia nuts is toxic to a dog?
Clinical signs have been reported from as little as 2.4 g per kg of body weight — about 10 g, a small handful, for a 10 lb dog. It is rarely life-threatening: most dogs recover within 24–48 hours, but call your vet promptly.
What are the symptoms if my dog eats macadamia nuts?
Watch for weakness in hind legs, vomiting, tremors, fever, depression. Signs usually appear within 12 hours, and most dogs recover within 24–48 hours. When in doubt, call your vet.
What should I do if my dog ate macadamia nuts?
Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Do not wait for symptoms — early treatment is dramatically cheaper and safer.
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Can dogs eat walnuts? · Can dogs eat almonds? · Can dogs eat cashews? · Can dogs eat pistachios? · Can dogs eat pecans? · Can dogs eat peanuts?
Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control. This page is informational and is not veterinary advice.