Can Dogs Eat Gingerbread? Is Gingerbread Safe for Dogs?

No, dogs should not eat gingerbread. While a small bite may not cause immediate harm, many gingerbread recipes contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs, like nutmeg, cloves, or xylitol.  

It’s safest to keep this festive treat off your dog’s menu. 

Like any well-trained pet parent, you’re probably tempted to feed your dog whatever you’re eating (or making), but there are good reasons to avoid giving gingerbread to dogs: 

• Nutmeg can be toxic. Nutmeg is one of the main ingredients in gingerbread, and it’s toxic to dogs at certain doses. It contains a compound called myristicin, and large doses can be fatal. Dr. Deer says the dose in a single piece of gingerbread isn’t likely enough to cause symptoms in dogs; however, it’s best to avoid it. Even if your dog eats a few bites, they might get an upset stomach. 
• Cloves can also be toxic. Cloves are often used in gingerbread recipes too. Much like nutmeg, it’s generally in a low dose in a few bites or pieces of gingerbread, according to Dr. Deer. However, in larger doses, cloves can be toxic due to one of its main compounds, called eugenol. 
• The fat can contribute to pancreatitis. Gingerbread can be high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Breeds that are predisposed to gastrointestinal (GI) upset or pancreatitis—like Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and Dachshunds—may be more likely to develop vomiting, diarrhea, and other signs of GI upset when ingesting gingerbread. However, pancreatitis is a risk for any breed of dog if a large amount of gingerbread is ingested. 

According to Dr. Sack, a toxic dose can be as little as 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or two to three whole nutmegs. 

While a dog is unlikely to eat this much unless they eat a whole tray of cookies, it’s better to be safe and avoid it completely. 

Toxicity can vary depending on your dog’s size and medical history. When in doubt, it’s best to avoid. 

If your dog sneaks some gingerbread, call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661, a fee applies). They can give recommendations in the context of your pet’s body weight, concurrent medications, and the ingested material, Dr. Sack says. 

Seek urgent veterinary care from your local emergency clinic for prompt treatment if you notice any of the following signs: 

• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Lethargy 
• Abnormal behavior 
• Seizures 
• Sudden collapse 

The best way to keep your dog safe from gingerbread is to stay a step ahead. Here are a few simple things you can do to prevent accidental snacking: 

• Store gingerbread out of reach. Keep cookies and gingerbread houses on high shelves, in sealed containers, like the Petmate Mason Jar, or behind closed pantry doors.  

• Avoid leaving treats unattended. If you’re baking or decorating, make sure someone keeps an eye on the goodies—or secure your dog in another room until you’re done and everything is put away. 
• Make a dog-friendly alternative. If your pup always wants what you’re having, try baking dog-safe holiday cookies with ingredients like 100% pure pumpkin, xylitol-free peanut butter, and oats. This can help divert their attention from what they can’t have to what they can. 

• Give your dog some basic training. A food-motivated pup can have one thing on their mind. Training them to stop in their tracks when you say “leave it” or “drop it” can help in a pinch, especially around the holidays when tempting foods are everywhere. 

With gingerbread off the table, what can you give your dog as a holiday treat? There are lots of options, from homemade “sugar” cookies to store-bought treats that require zero baking. 

If you prefer to forgo baking, pick up holiday-inspired dog treats that are ready to serve right out of the bag. 

Here are some of our favorites: 

If you’d rather bake your own treats, try one of these recipes: 

• “Gingerbread” Icebox Cookies: These faux gingerbread cookies are made with real ginger, but no nutmeg or cloves—so they’re perfectly safe. These treats are also high in protein, thanks to the finely ground kibble and peanut butter, which will help fill your pup up. 
• “Sugar” Cookie Dog Treat: These “sugar” cookies are made with real maple syrup, The Honest Kitchen bone broth, and finely ground Stella & Chewy’s dog food. Just make sure you don’t substitute with imitation maple syrup, which can contain xylitol—an ingredient that’s toxic to dogs. 

• Martha Stewart’s Holiday Dog Cookies: Provided exclusively to Chewy by Martha herself, these easy to make cookies are sure to put your pup in the holiday spirit. 
• Chocolate-Free Red Velvet Cookies for Dogs: Not a master baker? Not a problem. These dog-friendly red velvet cookies are made with just four ingredients, and you can decorate them however you like. (Your dog will be too busy scarfing them down to judge your icing skills.) 

Can dogs eat ginger snap cookies? 

No, dogs cannot eat ginger snap cookies. Much like gingerbread, ginger snap cookies are high in sugars and can lead to GI upset in dogs, says Dr. Deer. Ginger snap cookies may also have nutmeg in them. 

Can dogs eat gingerbread cookies? 

No, dogs can’t eat gingerbread cookies. Any form of gingerbread is off limits for your pup. 

Can dogs eat gingerbread houses? 

While very cute, gingerbread houses can be toxic to your dog. They can watch you decorate, but they shouldn’t consume any part of it. 

Is ginger safe for dogs? What are the benefits of ginger? 

Ginger is generally safe for dogs. 

Ginger can be used in small quantities for GI upset, and as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, according to Dr. Deer. 

In larger quantities, however, ginger can cause GI upset. You should also avoid feeding ginger to dogs on NSAIDs or with clotting disorders, because it can act as a blood thinner, says Dr. Deer. 

Is nutmeg harmful to dogs? How much nutmeg is toxic to dogs? 

Yes, nutmeg can be harmful to dogs. While a little probably won’t cause problems, it can become toxic in larger quantities. The exact amount depends on the size of your dog, but 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or three whole nutmegs is enough to be problematic.