Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon? Caution — Small Amounts Only
This food requires caution. Read the details carefully before feeding.
Small amounts of cinnamon are not toxic to dogs but large amounts can cause mouth irritation, digestive upset, and breathing problems.
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Warning Signs & Symptoms
Large amounts: mouth irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, breathing difficulties. Inhaled powder: breathing issues.
Safe to Feed
very small amounts of true cinnamon only
What to Avoid
large amounts, Cassia cinnamon in any amount, cinnamon essential oil
Preparation & Serving
Use only tiny pinch amounts of Ceylon cinnamon. Avoid Cassia cinnamon which is the common grocery store variety.
Potential Health Benefits
May have anti-inflammatory and blood sugar regulating properties in very small amounts.
Safer Alternatives
- Monitor for mouth irritation — cinnamon can cause burning sensation
Did you know?
There are two main types of cinnamon — Ceylon (true cinnamon) and Cassia. Cassia contains high levels of coumarin which is toxic to dogs in larger amounts, while Ceylon contains very little. Most grocery store cinnamon is Cassia.
Portions & nutrition
- Serving (small dog)
- tiny pinch only
- Serving (medium dog)
- tiny pinch only
- Serving (large dog)
- quarter teaspoon maximum
- Calories (per 100g)
- 247
- Safe frequency
- Occasional tiny amounts only
Source
What You Need to Know
A small pinch of cinnamon in food is generally safe. Cinnamon sticks and powders in large amounts can irritate the mouth and lungs. Cinnamon essential oil is much more concentrated and more dangerous.
This food requires care — if your dog has eaten a large amount read our emergency guide
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