Last Updated: 17/09/2026
Can Dogs Eat Macadamia Nuts?
Can dogs eat macadamia nuts? No, they're toxic even in small amounts. Symptoms, backyard risks and what to do if your dog eats one.
Author: Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
Spotted a few fallen nuts under the tree next door, or watched your dog scoff one off the lawn before you could grab it? It's a common backyard moment for Aussie pet parents, and one worth taking seriously.
No, dogs can't eat macadamia nuts. Even a small amount can cause toxicity. Signs usually start within 3 to 12 hours and can take up to 24 hours to appear, and can include weakness, nervous system depression, tremors, a raised temperature and vomiting. The good news is that with prompt vet care, most dogs recover within a day or two. Any suspected macadamia ingestion needs a call to your vet or an animal poisons helpline straight away.
Can dogs eat macadamia nuts?
No. Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, and it doesn't take a large amount to cause a problem - the minimum toxic dose is approximately 1 nut per kg of bodyweight1. Vets aren't entirely sure exactly what in the nut causes the reaction, but macadamia nut toxicity in dogs is well documented.
If you know or suspect your dog has eaten macadamia nuts, in any form, treat it as something to act on rather than watch and wait.
What happens if a dog eats a macadamia nut?
If your dog eats a macadamia nut, keep an eye out for weakness, trembling, a fever, and vomiting. These signs typically appear within 3 to 12 hours of eating the nuts, and occasionally take up to 24.
Affected dogs often struggle to stand or walk properly and may seem wobbly or reluctant to move. It can look alarming, but macadamia nut toxicity is rarely fatal when a vet is involved early. Most dogs are back to normal within one to two days with supportive care, which might include fluids or medication to manage vomiting and discomfort.
Always call your vet or an animal poisons helpline if you know or suspect your dog has eaten macadamia nuts. Have to hand the following information:
- The number of nuts consumed
- How long ago they were eaten
- Your dog's weight
Are macadamia trees dangerous for dogs?
Yes, if you've got a macadamia tree in the yard, or one next door with branches hanging over the fence, it's worth knowing your dog can get into trouble without anyone feeding them a single nut. Whole nuts, cracked shells and even nuts that have started to rot on the ground are all a risk.
Macadamia trees are common in Australian backyards and neighbourhoods, and dogs are pretty good at finding what's fallen, especially after a windy day shakes loose a fresh batch.
If you've got a macadamia tree, a regular check of the yard and a gate or fence to keep your dog away from the base of the tree can go a long way. It's also worth a quick chat to neighbours if their tree overhangs your yard.
What about macadamia oil, butter and choc macadamia treats?
Macadamia oil and macadamia butter carry the same risk as whole nuts, and they're easy to miss because they don't look like "nuts" on an ingredient label. Baked goods, muesli bars, and pantry staples made with macadamia oil or butter are all worth checking before they end up within reach of your dog.
Chocolate coated macadamias, or biscuits combining chocolate and macadamia, are a particular worry. Chocolate is toxic to dogs in its own right (see our guide to chocolate toxicity), so the two together compound the risk.
If you're ever unsure whether something in the pantry is safe, it's worth reading up on toxic foods for dogs more broadly, since quite a few common kitchen staples aren't dog friendly.
Macadamia nuts, and anything made with them, are off the menu for dogs, even in small amounts. Watch for weakness, tremors, fever and vomiting within the first 24 hours, and always call your vet if you suspect your dog has gotten into any. If you've got a macadamia tree in the yard, keeping the ground clear and your dog away from fallen nuts is the best prevention.
FAQs
References
Hansen, Steven. (2002). Macadamia nut toxicosis in dogs. Vet Med. 97. Accessed 17/9/2026. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/238739703_Macadamia_nut_toxicosis_in_dogs
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Thu 17 Sep 2026
Written by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)
Veterinarian
Dr. Gillian graduated from the University of Sydney in 2005 with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science. She worked in a number of small animal clinics, before joining the Pet Circle Vet team in 2020. Dr. Gillian has special interests in ultrasonography, surgery and behaviour. Her favourite part of being a vet is being an advocate for the animals. She loves helping owners to make the best, evidence-based decisions for their pets, and seeing the beautiful bond that people have with their fur-babies.
