Can Dogs Have Cinnamon? Is Cinnamon Toxic to Dogs?
Photo by Chewy
As you prepare yourself a hot apple cider and cinnamon buns, your sweet pup’s pleading face may make you wonder, “Can dogs have cinnamon too?”
The short answer is yes, dogs can have cinnamon—but only in small amounts. While cinnamon has low levels of coumarin, which can be toxic, it still makes the list of herbs and spices dogs can have—but only in small doses.
We spoke with a veterinary expert on the safety of cinnamon, its benefits and risks, how to safely offer it to your pup, and what to do if your dog eats too much of it.
Before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, always check with your veterinarian.
Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon?
Yes, dogs can eat plain, ground cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) in moderation.
There are two popular types of cinnamon: cassia cinnamon and Ceylon cinnamon. Between the two, Ceylon cinnamon contains less coumarin, the natural compound that gives the spice its flavor, and is safer for dogs to consume.
Is Cinnamon Good for Dogs?
While cinnamon has proven health benefits for humans, the evidence is limited when it comes to our canine companions.
That said, cinnamon is suggested to have the following health benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with joint pain, muscle soreness, and arthritis
- Antibacterial and antifungal properties
- Ability to help improve insulin sensitivity and lower glucose levels, which could aid in diabetes management
- Potent antioxidant properties
- Aiding with digestive issues
- Promoting heart health
As with every new food, it’s always best to consult with your vet to learn if cinnamon is an appropriate inclusion in your dog’s diet.
Is Cinnamon Bad for Dogs?
Cinnamon isn’t toxic to dogs, but it’s not entirely safe.
In large amounts, cinnamon can pose several risks to dogs, says Ray Spragley, DVM, CVA, CCRT, veterinarian and owner at Zen Dog Veterinary Care in Tuckahoe, New York.
Giving your dog too much cinnamon for their size can cause the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Mouth irritation
- Lung irritation
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Stomach irritation
- Changes in heart rate
In very large doses, cinnamon can cause liver disease and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
Dr. Spragley recommends dogs with respiratory issues avoid cinnamon entirely, as it may exacerbate breathing issues if they were to inhale it.
If your dog eats large amounts cinnamon powder, consult a vet immediately.
Is Cinnamon Oil Safe for Dogs?
Like other essential oils, cinnamon oil is extremely toxic to dogs and can cause toxicity through ingestion or skin contact.
If your dog ingests cinnamon essential oil, consult a vet immediately.
Are Cinnamon Sticks Safe for Dogs?
Cinnamon sticks should also be avoided, because they can cause mouth and skin irritation.
If your dog eats large amounts of cinnamon sticks or cinnamon powder, consult a vet immediately.
How Much Cinnamon Can I Give My Dog?
Cinnamon should be treated as, well, a treat. And treats should be fed in moderation, making up no more than 10% of the total calories of your dog’s daily diet, with the rest coming from a complete and well-balanced dog food.
If your dog has never had cinnamon before, start slow and work your way up to the recommended serving size. Watch for any reactions or side effects, and stop giving your dog cinnamon if you notice any changes in their health or behavior.
| Dog Size | Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 3/4 teaspoon |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 1 teaspoon |
How To Safely Feed Cinnamon to Your Dog
An easy way to feed cinnamon to your dog is to incorporate a small amount into their food, making sure to mix well. Follow the guidelines for the right serving size based on your dog’s weight.
If you have a cinnamon stick, grate it into a powder before giving it to your dog.
Homemade Dog Treats with Cinnamon
If you want to get a little more creative—or want to bake a treat for a special event—make one of these homemade dog treats:
Store-Bought Dogs Treats with Cinnamon
There are also several ready-made options that don’t require any baking. Some of our favorites include:
Recommended Products
My Dog Ate Too Cinnamon—What Do I Do?
If your dog eats too much cinnamon, you may notice symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Changes in heart rate
If you see any of these signs and you suspect your dog overdid it on the cinnamon, contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661; a consultation fee applies).
By consulting a vet, you’ll receive guidance on whether to bring your dog in for treatment ASAP or wait to see if they have symptoms. If symptoms are severe, see a vet for treatment right away.
FAQs About Cinnamon and Dogs
Q: Is cinnamon toxic to dogs?
A: Unlike some spices, cinnamon is considered non-toxic to dogs. Ceylon cinnamon is safer than cassia cinnamon.
Q: Can dogs have cinnamon rolls?
A: It’s not recommended for dogs to eat cinnamon rolls, because they contain a large amount of sugar and fat. Dogs don’t tolerate these well, and can develop pancreatitis or gastroenteritis.
Cinnamon rolls may also contain xylitol as a sweetener or nutmeg, which are both toxic foods for dogs and should be avoided entirely.
Q: Can dogs have cinnamon applesauce?
A: Dogs can have homemade cinnamon applesauce (made without sugar and nutmeg) or store-bought versions that don’t contain sugar, xylitol, or other toxic ingredients.
Attributions
This content was medically reviewed by a veterinarian.
