Benefits and risks
Benefits
- A sprinkle accidentally eaten is unlikely to cause harm
- Not considered toxic by the ASPCA
- No benefit dogs need
Risks
- Powder can irritate the mouth and lungs if inhaled
- Large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea and low blood sugar
- Cinnamon rolls and cookies may contain nutmeg (toxic in larger amounts), xylitol or raisins
If you choose to share
- Avoid adding cinnamon to your dog's food
- Keep cinnamon sticks and essential oils out of reach
- Call your vet if a large amount was eaten
My dog ate cinnamon. What should I do?
A small amount is unlikely to cause serious harm in a healthy dog. Remove any remaining food, offer fresh water and watch for vomiting, diarrhea, a painful belly or lethargy over the next 24-48 hours. Call your vet if your dog ate a large amount, is small, young or has health problems (such as pancreatitis), or if the food contained onion, garlic, chocolate or xylitol.
Safer treats to give instead
These are safe for dogs in treat-size amounts:
Planning treats? Check your dog's full daily needs with the dog food calculator or dog calorie calculator.
Cinnamon and dogs: FAQ
Can dogs have cinnamon?
Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA, but it is not a good treat. Large amounts or inhaled powder can irritate the mouth, stomach and lungs, and cinnamon baked goods often contain sugar, fat, nutmeg or xylitol.
Is cinnamon toxic to dogs?
No. The ASPCA lists cinnamon as non-toxic to dogs, but large amounts and cinnamon essential oil can cause irritation and stomach upset.
Can dogs eat cinnamon rolls or applesauce with cinnamon?
Avoid them. Baked goods are high in sugar and fat, and some contain nutmeg, raisins or xylitol.
Is nutmeg the same as cinnamon?
No. Nutmeg contains myristicin, which can be toxic to dogs in larger amounts. Treat it more cautiously than cinnamon.
Can puppies eat cinnamon?
No. Puppies are smaller and more vulnerable than adults, so it is best avoided entirely.
More "can dogs eat" guides
Browse lists: human foods dogs can eat Β· foods dogs can't eat
Sources
This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs. Dogs with medical conditions (such as diabetes, pancreatitis, kidney disease or food allergies) may need different advice from their vet.