Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon?

Verdict: CAUTION — a small amount is safe; large amounts, cinnamon oil and sticks are not.

Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, and tiny amounts are even used in some dog treats. But it can be harmful if a dog eats too much, inhales the powder, or gets into cinnamon essential oil — which is toxic even in small amounts.

Why it's a caution

• Inhaled powder: causes coughing, choking, lung irritation and breathing difficulty.
• Large amounts: more than a teaspoon of powder can cause low blood sugar, liver problems, vomiting and diarrhea.
• Cinnamon essential oil: toxic — a small drop can cause serious poisoning.
• Cinnamon sticks: chewing them causes mouth irritation and can splinter.

What's safe

• A sprinkle of cinnamon in homemade dog treats — fine.
• Small amounts are antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory.

What's not safe

• Cinnamon essential oil (diffusers, cleaning products)
• Whole cinnamon sticks (mouth irritation, splinters)
• Cinnamon rolls, breads and pastries (sugar, butter, often xylitol)

Symptoms of too much cinnamon

• Vomiting, diarrhea
• Low blood sugar (weakness, lethargy)
• Coughing or breathing trouble (if inhaled)
• Changes in heart rate

What to do

• Small lick of cinnamon powder: usually fine, just watch.
• Ate a lot of powder, a stick, or any essential oil: call your vet immediately.

FAQ

Can dogs eat cinnamon powder?

A tiny amount is safe — but keep it well under a teaspoon.

Can dogs eat cinnamon rolls?

No. The dough, sugar and butter are bad, and raw dough is dangerous.

Is cinnamon toxic to dogs?

Not by itself in small amounts — but large doses and the essential oil are.

Can dogs eat cinnamon applesauce?

Plain applesauce with a little cinnamon is OK in small amounts — check for xylitol.

Sources

• PetMD: Can Dogs Have Cinnamon? (petmd.com)
• ASPCA: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (aspca.org)