Cinnamon for Dogs: Side Effects, Toxicity, and Safe Use
- Vickie Foster
- Mar 27
- 2 min read
Some dogs love cinnamon. It is even in some dog treats. But it should be treated with caution where pets are concerned.
The good news is the spice cinnamon in small quantities is not toxic to your dog. Although cinnamon essential oil is toxic, in general, your pooch will not suffer fatal toxic effects from eating small amounts of cinnamon. That doesn’t mean dogs should chow down on the raw spice though.
Pets can have uncomfortable reactions to too much cinnamon. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, more than one teaspoon of the spice will cause problems for your furry pal. Keep in mind small breeds will have more of a problem with an excess of the powder than large breeds. Cinnamon in large amounts can cause an abundance of problems, among them skin and digestive irritation for both pups and people. All forms of it are bad news, too. Be it cinnamon sticks, ground or excessive amounts in baked goods, they can all make problems for your pooch. Essential cinnamon oil can also cause irritation in your dog’s mouth. The poison helpline says that large cinnamon amounts can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate, low blood sugar, and liver disease.
If your dog eats a large amount of cinnamon you should call your veterinarian. The ingestion may make your furry buddy uncomfortable and your vet may have suggestions to help make it more comfortable.
Cinnamon Baked Goods
The small amounts of the spice used in most baked goods will not hurt your pup. But they should not be eating goodies meant for humans anyway. Such treats are high in fat, sugar and excessive calories that can cause obesity, diabetes and pancreatitis. Human food can also contain the deadly sweetener xylitol, it is the toxic avenger to pets. Additional baked goods ingredients like chocolate or raisins are harmful to canines as well.
Nutmeg lurking in cinnamon products
Nutmeg that is often used with cinnamon can have toxic effects. According to the American Kennel Club, nutmeg contains the toxin myristicin, which can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, disorientation, high blood pressure, abdominal pain, dry mouth, and even seizures.
Precautions
To be on the safe side, follow these guidelines with cinnamon.
Keep your dog away from cinnamon essential oils. Do not use cinnamon oil in a diffuser in the same home as your pets.
Be careful when using cinnamon sticks for decoration or in cider—do not let your pets near them.
Store cinnamon and other spices in high, safe places in your house, where your pets can’t get into them.
To conclude, dogs can eat cinnamon in small quantities, but it isn’t necessary or recommended.
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