Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin Pie? No — nutmeg; plain pumpkin is fine

✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-07-12

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The full picture

This is one of the more confusing cases because plain pumpkin is actively beneficial for dogs. It's high in soluble fibre, supports GI health, and vets often recommend a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin for dogs with diarrhoea or constipation. Pumpkin pie, however, is a completely different product.

Pumpkin pie filling typically contains nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, sugar, cream, and eggs — baked in a pastry shell. Nutmeg is the key concern: it contains myristicin, which at sufficient doses causes disorientation, elevated heart rate, hallucinations, and tremors in dogs. The amount of nutmeg in a slice of pumpkin pie is below the threshold for serious toxicity in most medium dogs, but a smaller dog eating a larger portion, or a dog eating multiple servings, could reach a concerning dose. The sugar, fat, and dairy content cause GI upset regardless.

If your dog has already eaten this

For a single bite of pumpkin pie in a medium or large dog: monitor for GI upset. For a full slice or more, or a small dog: call your vet and describe the amount. Check whether the pie is sugar-free (xylitol risk). Signs of nutmeg toxicity: disorientation, elevated heart rate, tremors — these are a vet visit.

Risks to watch for

Nutmeg — neurological signs in large amounts
High sugar — GI upset
Dairy (cream, evaporated milk) — lactose intolerance
Buttery pastry — pancreatitis risk
Xylitol in sugar-free versions

Safe portion size

None. Give plain canned pumpkin puree (no added spices or sugar) instead.

Safer alternatives

Plain canned pumpkin (1–2 tsp for medium dog)
Plain cooked sweet potato
Plain cooked carrot

Common questions

Can dogs eat canned pumpkin?

Yes — plain canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is excellent for dogs. It's high in soluble fibre and helps with both diarrhoea and constipation. Give 1–2 teaspoons for small dogs, 1–2 tablespoons for medium dogs. Check the label — it should contain only pumpkin with no spices or sugar added.

What's the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?

Pumpkin puree is just cooked pumpkin — safe for dogs. Pumpkin pie filling has added sugar, spices (including nutmeg), and thickeners — not safe for dogs. They're sold in nearly identical cans; always read the label.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661 in the UK.