Can dogs have cinnamon? Yes, cinnamon is safe for dogs to eat. It offers several benefits to our canine companions, thanks to its high nutritional value. This aromatic spice provides high levels of antioxidants, fiber, vitamin K, iron, and zinc to dogs.
Although cinnamon can be safely added to a dog’s diet, there are things dog owners must be aware of before feeding cinnamon to their pets to avoid health issues.
Is cinnamon good for dogs?
Cinnamon is a good addition to your dog’s food now and then. Although low in protein, it is rich in fiber and contains trace amounts of other essential nutrients. These include calcium, iron, and potassium, as well as antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein.
The health benefits of cinnamon for dogs include:
- Aids in regulating blood sugar levels
- Enhances blood circulation
- Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Promotes weight loss
- Boosts the body’s metabolism
- Reduces inflammation and bloating
- Prevents fungal infections
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
Is cinnamon bad for dogs at all?
Cinnamon is non-toxic and is safe for dogs to eat but feeding cinnamon to your dog also comes with several health risks that every dog owner must be aware of.
- Cinnamon Allergy
While not a common food allergen, cinnamon may still trigger an allergic reaction in dogs, especially those with food sensitivity or intolerance. Only sprinkle a small amount of cinnamon on pet food and watch out for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itchiness, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, and swelling. Bring your dog to the vet if he starts showing any of these symptoms.- Lung Irritant
Do not let your dog eat cinnamon powder without mixing it with his food. Otherwise, he may have difficulty breathing and experience choking, coughing, and serious lung irritation.
- Lung Irritant
- Stomach Problems
Keep an eye on your pooch, especially on holidays. Make sure he doesn’t get to eat cinnamon sticks sneakily. Eating too much can result in digestive upset, diarrhea, vomiting, and a rapid heart rate.
Dangerous Types of Cinnamon
Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon are the 2 types of cinnamon commonly available in stores. Never let your pooch get his paws on cassia cinnamon since it contains a natural and organic compound called coumarin. If your dog ingests this type of cinnamon in large amounts, it can severely damage his liver.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Pet poison helpline classifies cinnamon and nutmeg as toxic to dogs. Cinnamon is often mixed with nutmeg in some people food. While cinnamon is safe for dogs, nutmeg isn’t. It contains a compound called myristic acid, which is toxic to dogs.
If you suspect that your dog has eaten food with nutmeg, look out for symptoms such as increased heart rate, disorientation, and dehydration. In severe cases, he may experience high blood pressure and seizures. So make sure that your pooch gets medical care immediately.
Can dogs eat cinnamon regularly?
It is not ideal for giving dogs cinnamon regularly. Long-term use can cause adverse side effects. Thus, it is meant as a sparse and minimal addition to their diet.
Always consult the vet before you feed your dog cinnamon. Cinnamon is safe in small amounts but can be harmful in large quantities. In general, the amount of cinnamon you give to your dog depends on his weight.
If your furry friend is a small or toy breed, a tiny dash (1 flat teaspoon) of cinnamon on his food will do. For medium to large-sized dogs, you can give 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder.
Make sure to introduce cinnamon to your furry friend gradually. Dogs have sensitive stomachs, and abrupt changes to their daily meals can cause digestive problems.
Can dogs have cinnamon sugar?
No, cinnamon sugar is not suitable for dogs, especially dogs with diabetes. Excessive sugar consumption is never recommended for dogs as it leads to various health issues, including the onset of diabetes, insulin resistance, and obesity.
Can dogs have cinnamon rolls?
Do not share cinnamon rolls and other store-bought baked goods with your dog because they often contain other ingredients that can endanger his health. Your furry friend can still enjoy cinnamon rolls if they are homemade and have no added ingredients that could be harmful to your dog.
Can dogs have cinnamon applesauce?
Cinnamon applesauce is okay for dogs, provided that it is organic and sugar-free. Avoid commercially produced cinnamon applesauce as they usually contain too much sugar and preservatives. Some may even have traces of pesticides that are harmful to dogs.
Can dogs have cinnamon sticks?
No, cinnamon sticks are bad for dogs. Chewing on it can cause mouth irritation and stomach upset. Cinnamon essential oils should be kept away from your pooch as well for the same reasons.
Can dogs eat cinnamon toast crunch?
Cinnamon toast crunch is not the best snack for dogs. It contains significant amounts of sugar and preservatives. Go for homemade cinnamon treats instead because you can control the ingredients you put in the meal.
Is cinnamon ok for dogs?
In summary, cinnamon is okay for dogs as long as it’s given in moderation. Remember to ask the vet first if cinnamon is good for your pooch. Once the vet approves, use Ceylon cinnamon and not cassia cinnamon.
Baked cinnamon human foods are ok as well, so long as they are homemade. Just remember to avoid using harmful ingredients such as cocoa powder, chocolate, nutmeg, raisins, and sugar.
Homemade Cinnamon Dog Treat
Here’s an easy cinnamon dog treat you can make at home that your dog will surely enjoy.
Oatmeal Cinnamon Applesauce Biscuits
Ingredients
Procedures
- Preheat the oven to 350F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place 2 cups of quick oats in a blender. Pulse until it has a flour-like consistency. Pour into a mixing bowl.
- Add the remaining 1/2 cup of cinnamon applesauce, eggs, and quick oats. Mix everything until well-combined.
- Place the mold on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Scoop balls of batter into the mold evenly.
- Flatten with the back of a small spoon.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven.
- Bake for 22 to 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool.
- Serve it to your furry companion.
- Place leftovers in a Ziploc bag or an airtight container and store them in the fridge.
