Small amounts of Ceylon cinnamon are generally safe for dogs, but there are no proven health benefits. Large amounts can irritate, so ask your vet.
Safe amounts
Ceylon cinnamon in small amounts is generally safe. The ASPCA says cinnamon isn’t toxic to dogs.
Benefits
No proven health benefits for dogs.
Risks
- Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can harm the liver in large amounts.
- Cinnamon powder can irritate the mouth and lungs.
- Essential oil is dangerous.
Amount
A pinch mixed into food.
Ask your vet
Before adding.
Dose and safety
Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon are not toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA, but large amounts can irritate the mouth, cause low blood sugar, vomiting, diarrhea and liver issues. Cassia contains coumarin, which can harm the liver in large amounts. Cinnamon essential oil and sticks are riskier, and inhaling powder can cause coughing and breathing difficulty.
- A small pinch sprinkled on food is generally considered safe for most dogs.
- Studies showing health benefits such as blood sugar control are in humans and lab animals, not well tested in dogs.
- Foods containing cinnamon often also contain nutmeg, xylitol or raisins, which are toxic to dogs.
Advice
Ask a vet before using cinnamon as a supplement, particularly for diabetic dogs, or dogs with liver disease or on medication. Avoid cinnamon-flavored baked goods. Call a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 if a dog eats a large amount of cinnamon, especially essential oil.
Dose and safety
Ceylon cinnamon is generally considered safe in small amounts for dogs, and the ASPCA lists cinnamon as non toxic to dogs. Large amounts can irritate the mouth, cause vomiting and low blood sugar. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can harm the liver at high doses. Cinnamon oil and sticks are more dangerous.
Advice
There is little evidence that cinnamon treats disease in dogs. A pinch sprinkled on food is the usual maximum. Ask a vet before use, especially for diabetic dogs.
Toxicity thresholds and forms
Cinnamon powder can irritate lungs if inhaled. A teaspoon of ground cinnamon can cause mouth irritation, vomiting and low blood sugar in small dogs. Cassia cinnamon has coumarin that can harm the liver in larger amounts. Cinnamon essential oil is more concentrated and can cause skin burns and liver damage.
Veterinary perspective
Cinnamon may be found in some dog treats at tiny amounts. Do not use it as a diabetes treatment for a dog without a vet. Healthy snacks include carrots, blueberries and plain pumpkin. For poison questions call ASPCA at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.
Based on data from the ASPCA and the Pet Poison Helpline
