Can Dogs Have Cinnamon?

Answer: With caution — best avoided.

Small amounts of cinnamon are generally not toxic to dogs, but cinnamon is best avoided as a treat. It can irritate the mouth, upset the stomach and, in large amounts, cause more serious problems. There is no reason to feed it on purpose.

Why cinnamon is best avoided

The AKC lists cinnamon among the foods dogs should not eat. While it is not actually toxic in small amounts, cinnamon and its oils can irritate the inside of a dog’s mouth, making them uncomfortable and sick. It can lower a dog’s blood sugar too much and can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, a changed heart rate and even liver disease in large amounts. Cinnamon essential oil is dangerous and should never be given to a dog.

How much cinnamon is OK?

There is no recommended amount. A tiny sprinkle baked into a plain treat is the most that is usually discussed — and even that is not needed. Do not give spoonfuls of cinnamon powder, cinnamon sticks to chew, or any cinnamon-flavoured product as a treat.

How to handle cinnamon around your dog

Do not serve cinnamon on purpose. If a food your dog already ate contains a small amount of baked cinnamon, that is not usually an emergency — watch for drooling, mouth irritation or stomach upset over the next few hours. Keep cinnamon sticks, ground cinnamon jars and cinnamon essential oil out of reach, and never let your dog inhale cinnamon powder — it can irritate the lungs.

Watch out for

Chewing cinnamon sticks, licking up a pile of cinnamon powder, or getting into cinnamon essential oil are the risky situations. Signs to watch for include drooling, pawing at the mouth, coughing, vomiting or diarrhoea. If your dog ate a large amount or seems unwell, call your vet.

Frequently asked questions

Is cinnamon toxic to dogs?

Cinnamon is not classed as toxic to dogs in small amounts, but the AKC lists it among foods dogs should avoid. It can irritate the mouth, upset the stomach, and in large amounts cause more serious problems.

Can dogs eat cinnamon rolls?

No. Cinnamon rolls are full of sugar and fat and often contain other ingredients dogs should not eat. Skip them.

What if my dog licked cinnamon?

A small lick is not usually an emergency. Watch for drooling, mouth irritation or stomach upset. If your dog ate a large amount, chewed a cinnamon stick or got into cinnamon essential oil, call your vet.

Is cinnamon good for dogs?

No. There is no proven benefit that makes cinnamon worth feeding to a dog, and it can irritate the mouth and stomach.

Is cinnamon essential oil safe for dogs?

No. Cinnamon essential oil is dangerous for dogs. Keep essential oils, potpourri and scented products away from your dog.

Sources

American Kennel Club — Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous?. ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.

This page was reviewed for accuracy against AKC and ASPCA guidance. It is general information only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your dog has a health condition or eats something you are worried about, ask your vet.

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