- Even a small handful affects dogs
- Within ~12 h
- Affects: Muscles & nerves
Why this verdict for dogs
Macadamia nuts cause a specific toxic reaction in dogs affecting muscles and the nervous system.
Warning signs to watch for
- Weakness in back legs
- Tremors
- Fever
⚠ If your dog ate macadamia nuts
Act immediately — don't wait for symptoms.
- Call your vet or a pet poison helpline right away.
- Note how much was eaten and when.
- Do not induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
Macadamia nuts cause a specific, well-documented toxic reaction in dogs — one of the few foods that does — and even a handful can trigger it.
How much is safe?
Dogs react to relatively small amounts, and signs are dose-related. They hide in cookies, trail mix and baked goods, so check ingredients before sharing human treats. (In cats it's less documented, but the fat and choking risk mean cats should avoid them too.)
What happens if a dog eats too much?
Within about 12 hours you may see weakness — especially in the back legs — wobbliness, tremors, vomiting and a fever. Most dogs recover with care, but it's distressing and needs a vet.
⚠ What to do if your dog ate macadamia nuts
Call your vet or a poison line (ASPCA 888-426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661). Watch for hind-leg weakness, and if the nuts were chocolate-coated, mention that too (double risk).
⚠️ Worried your pet got into this?
Frequently asked questions
How many macadamia nuts are toxic?
Even a small number can cause signs in dogs — there's no safe amount, so treat any ingestion as a reason to call a poison line.
My dog ate a cookie with macadamia — worried?
Call a poison line with your dog's weight and how much it ate; baked goods can also hide chocolate or raisins.
More nuts & seeds for dogs
By the CanMyPet Editorial Team · Reviewed against ASPCA Animal Poison Control, the American Kennel Club (AKC) and Pet Poison Helpline · Last updated July 31, 2026.
Sources
- ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
- American Kennel Club — Dog Nutrition
- Pet Poison Helpline — Poison List