Can My Dog Eat Cinnamon?
Can My Dog Eat Cinnamon?
Short answer: small amounts of plain cinnamon are generally safe for most healthy dogs. Here’s what UK owners should know about types, safe amounts, and when to avoid it.
Contents
Is cinnamon safe for dogs?
Small amounts are fine
Plain ground cinnamon can be a tasty sprinkle for many dogs. It’s not a cure for medical problems, but a light flavouring is usually okay.
Choose Ceylon if possible
Ceylon (true) cinnamon has less coumarin than common cassia, making it a gentler choice for regular use.
Avoid sugary bakes
Human cinnamon buns or cereals often contain sugar, raisins, nutmeg, or xylitol—some are toxic to dogs.
Don’t let dogs inhale powder
Cinnamon dust can irritate the mouth and airways. Mix it into food rather than sprinkling in the air.
How much is safe?
As an occasional topper, these rough guide amounts work for most healthy dogs:
| Dog size | Example weight | Max amount (2–3×/week) |
|---|---|---|
| Toy | up to 5 kg | Pinch (≈1/16 tsp) |
| Small | 5–10 kg | ⅛ tsp |
| Medium | 10–25 kg | ¼ tsp |
| Large | 25–40 kg | ⅓ tsp |
| Giant | 40 kg+ | ½ tsp |
Note: Introduce slowly and stop if you see diarrhoea, vomiting, coughing after eating, or mouth irritation.
When to avoid cinnamon
On certain medications
Skip cinnamon if your dog takes medicines for diabetes, liver disease, or blood-thinning—speak to your vet first.
Liver concerns
Cassia cinnamon is higher in coumarin; dogs with liver issues should avoid it altogether unless a vet advises.
No essential oils
Do not give cinnamon essential oil—it's too concentrated and can be harmful.
Raisins & nutmeg risk
Avoid cinnamon buns, granola and mince pies—often contain raisins/currants (toxic) or nutmeg.
How to serve it (simple ideas)
- Sprinkle & mix: Stir a pinch into your dog’s usual food or plain yoghurt (xylitol-free).
- Bake safe treats: Homemade dog biscuits using peanut butter (xylitol-free), oat flour, egg, water, and a tiny bit of cinnamon.
- Never give sticks: Cinnamon sticks can splinter—choking and mouth injury risk.
