Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon? How to Safely Feed Dogs Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs. Feeding cinnamon to dogs in small doses can provide several health benefits. However, certain types of cinnamon are safer than others. Some types of cinnamon contain coumarin, a compound that is toxic in large amounts. Cassia cinnamon comes from Indonesia and China and contains a high level of coumarin. Ceylon cinnamon comes from Sri Lanka and contains less coumarin and is safer for dogs.

Baked goods containing cinnamon, such as cinnamon rolls, contain high levels of sugar and should not be fed to dogs. Many cinnamon roll sweeteners include xylitol, a compound that poses a toxicity threat to your pooch. To offer the benefits of cinnamon to your dog, feed them a half teaspoon of cinnamon powder in their regular dog food. When dosing, be mindful of your dog’s size—smaller breeds benefit from smaller amounts.

Consider the potential health benefits of cinnamon for dogs.

1. 1. Cinnamon contains antioxidants. Cinnamon contains potent polyphenol antioxidants. These antioxidants are a boon to your dog’s brain function. They capture free radicals that contribute to dementia and premature aging.
2. 2. Cinnamon has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon is beneficial to dogs who suffer from chronic yeast infections. It’s also good for your dog’s joints and can help alleviate joint pain and muscle soreness.
3. 3. Cinnamon promotes heart health. Cinnamon has been shown to reduce the chances of heart disease and high blood pressure issues in canines. If your dog has heart issues or high blood pressure, talk to your vet about adding ground cinnamon to your dog’s diet.
4. 4. Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels. A small dose of ground cinnamon may be beneficial for dogs with diabetes. Cinnamon may lower blood glucose levels and insulin resistance.

As with dog treats, most of the risks associated with feeding your dog cinnamon lie in the serving size. Here are some of the risks associated with feeding cinnamon to your dog:

1. 1. Large quantities can lead to minor and severe health issues. If your dog eats too large a helping of ground cinnamon, they can experience difficulty breathing and swallowing, stomach upset, and irritation inside their mouth. Feeding your dog a large amount of cinnamon can lead to adverse side effects including low blood sugar, irregular heart rate, vomiting, and liver disease.
2. 2. Cinnamon essential oils can cause irritation. Due to its high concentration, even a small amount of cinnamon essential oil can cause skin irritation, difficulty breathing, and an upset stomach.
3. 3. Know the difference between nutmeg and cinnamon. Cinnamon and nutmeg come from the same parent plant but are two very different spices. Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, but nutmeg is. Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that is poisonous to dogs. If your dog eats large amounts of nutmeg, they may experience disorientation, increased heart rate and blood pressure, abdominal pain, seizures, hallucinations, dry mouth, and dizziness.
4. 4. Cinnamon sticks present a choking hazard to your dog. Instead of giving them an entire cinnamon stick, give them small amounts of ground cinnamon or a supplement containing cinnamon with their regular pet food.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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