Does your dog like to "help" you in the kitchen while you bake, taking in the sweet scents and looking at you like they haven't been fed in weeks? While baked goods like cinnamon rolls or snickerdoodle cookies aren't the healthiest to share with your pet, there are cinnamon-infused dog treats (like ours!) that are great for Fido to snack on.
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is not toxic to dogs. The spice also has many health benefits! Keep reading for more information about how a little cinnamon could benefit your dog's health, how to implement cinnamon into your dog's diet, and what warning signs to watch out for.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon For Dogs
Is cinnamon good for dogs? Can dogs have cinnamon? Both questions get a yes. Cinnamon is non-toxic, has many health benefits to both humans and dogs, and is a common ingredient in many dog treats.
The spice is abundant in anti-inflammatory properties which is great for aging pups with arthritis or muscle soreness. The anti-inflammatory properties in cinnamon can help manage joint pain and reduce swelling.
Cinnamon is also brain food. It is antioxidant-rich and works to defend people and dogs against neurological disorders. Cinnamon helps improve cognitive functions like memory as well, so it brings both mental health and physical health benefits.
Overweight and diabetic dogs can benefit from cinnamon. Adding 1/8 teaspoon of the spice to your dog’s diet for every 15 pounds of their body weight will help regulate their blood sugar and lower insulin resistance. Cinnamon regulates blood sugar by helping to slow the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream after a meal high in carbohydrates.
In a study published in the Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, researchers found that dogs who eat cinnamon also had improved heart health. Dogs that participated in the study who were given cinnamon displayed significantly lower systolic blood pressure and heart rate than dogs in the group that were not given cinnamon.
Can Dogs Have Too Much Cinnamon?
The Pet Poison Helpline warns that if your dog inhales cinnamon powder, the substance will irritate their lungs and cause coughing, choking, and difficulty breathing. Though some cinnamon powder is OK for dogs in most cases, steer away from cinnamon sticks. The cinnamon stick form of cinnamon could cause stomach and mouth irritation.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon For Dogs
While cinnamon and nutmeg are complementary spices, nutmeg is definitely not good for dogs. Nutmeg contains the toxin myristicin, a compound found naturally in the essential oils of nutmeg and plants like parsley, peyote, and dill. Symptoms of myristicin toxicity include:
Increased heart rate
Disorientation
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Abdominal pain
Hallucinations
High blood pressure
Seizures
These signs of nutmeg overdose can last up to 48 hours. The good news is that in order for your dog to suffer from myristicin poisoning, they would have to ingest quite a lot of nutmeg (1-3 tablespoons). If they ingest only a little (less than 1 tablespoon), they may only have mild stomach upset. The Thank Your Vet Organization recommends you call your veterinarian or Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 as soon as possible if you suspect your pooch got into the spice cabinet, and remember to keep nutmeg and baked goods that contain nutmeg out of your pup's reach.
Safe Cinnamon Treats for Dogs
Wondering how you can incorporate a safe amount of cinnamon into your dog's diet? Wild Earth treats are the perfect option!
Our Banana & Cinnamon treats contain all 10 essential amino acids and healthy omega fatty acids. Plus dogs' go nuts for the mix of flavor.
Cinnamon, Spice, and Everything Nice
Dogs tend to really like the flavor of cinnamon. Plus cinnamon comes with health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties that help with arthritis, joint pain, and swelling, among others. Enjoy!
Can Dogs Eat Baked Goods With Cinnamon In It?
Most baked goods with cinnamon in them only contain a smaller amount of it which should be safe for your dog. Many dog treats and supplements actually contain cinnamon to help improve the health of your dog. Small amounts of cinnamon can be safe for your dog but most baked goods and snack foods contain large amounts of sugar which isn't healthy for your dog. So just because the baked good contains cinnamon doesn't mean it is a healthy choice for your dog. It is important to look at all of the ingredients within a snack before you give it to your dog.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Too Much Cinnamon
If your dog eats a small amount of cinnamon, it typically won't be dangerous for your dog, but if your dog some how eats a large amount of cinnamon at one time then it is important to take your dog to the vet or call your vet for their guidance. Cinnamon isn't toxic for dogs but large amounts of cinnamon can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues in your dog. This is especially true for smaller dog breeds who eat a large amount of cinnamon in one sitting.
It is important to air on the side of caution when it comes to the health and safety of your dog. So if your dog eats a large amount of cinnamon, then it is recommend that you speak with your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Recommended Vitamins & Supplements for Dogs
Why do dogs need supplements? Age, environment, pollutants, and the stressors of daily life can all lead to less than optimal health for your dog. We’ve created a family of supplements to provide support in the areas your dog needs it most. Learn about Wild Earth's dog supplements.
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