Why it is dangerous for dogs
Macadamia nuts are poisonous to dogs, although it is not known exactly which substance in them causes it. After eating them a dog can become weak, especially in the hind legs, and can have tremors, vomiting, an unsteady walk and a raised body temperature.
How many nuts cause harm depends on the dog, and it cannot be judged at home. Signs may only appear after several hours, so a dog that seems well for now tells you nothing. These nuts turn up in biscuits and sweets that can also contain chocolate, which is dangerous to dogs too.
Contact a vet or an emergency clinic now and tell them what your dog ate and when; take the packaging if you can.
What to watch out for
- Weakness, especially in the hind legs, and an unsteady walk.
- Tremors and a raised body temperature.
- Vomiting and lethargy.
- Biscuits and sweets with macadamia nuts can also contain chocolate, which is dangerous to dogs as well.
- Signs may only appear after several hours, so contact a vet straight away rather than waiting for them.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Blueberries Yes, blueberries and bilberries are fine for dogs: give a few washed, unsweetened berries as an occasional treat. Safe
- Cucumbers Yes, fresh cucumber is fine for dogs: it is mostly water and low in calories, but do not give pickled cucumbers. Safe