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Does one macadamia nut pose a bigger risk to my 5 kg terrier than to a larger dog?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, size drastically changes the risk — one nut can be enough to cause weakness and wobbliness in a small dog like yours. The toxic compound in macadamia nuts affects the nervous system, and a smaller body means the concentration is higher per kilogram. Signs like tremors, inability to stand, or vomiting typically appear within 12 hours. Call your vet immediately, even for a single nut, because early supportive care can prevent a night of distress. Keep him warm and confined while you arrange to see the vet.

Macadamia nuts — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic to dogs — weakness, wobbliness and tremors within 12 hours. Usually recoverable, but call your vet.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Macadamia nuts should not be given to dogs at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Macadamia nuts has no place in everyday feeding: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged after this and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Macadamia nuts food facts page.

Open the full food page: Macadamia nuts food facts →