Our dogs are surrounded by many things that are potentially dangerous to their health if consumed. But most, especially those people who have just adopted or welcomed a furry friend, might not be much aware of such potential risks. Most dogs are allergic to nuts, raisins, chocolates, salt, gums, etc. In contrast, they can have certain human foods, too, like eggs, chicken, sweet potatoes, yogurt, etc. And what about cinnamon? Is cinnamon bad for dogs? Can dogs have cinnamon? Well, cinnamon is an aromatic spice widely used in both sweet and savory food. It is quite a versatile spice, but dog owners must know whether this food is safe for their pets or not.
Is Cinnamon Toxic to Dogs?
Well, to give you a straightforward answer, we must say no. Thankfully, cinnamon is not toxic to your dog in most cases. However, in rare cases, one might consider this spice to be not good for their dear loyal buddies. Such cases mostly depend on the form and quantity of this spice that a dog consumes. Foods with sprinkled or grounded cinnamon are easily digestible in dogs. Moreover, when this spice is consumed in the form of essential oil or baked goodies in limited quantities, canines will not face any harm. Therefore, excessive quantities or types of cinnamon can cause severe health issues. Additionally, some ask, ‘is cinnamon bad for dogs to smell?’. It’s ok to sniff around this condiment, however, the dog shouldn’t make it an addiction.
Health Benefits of Cinnamon for Dogs
Is cinnamon good for dogs? The answer is yes. We, humans, love the smell of baking, and nothing beats the aroma of cinnamon in the air. Thus, everyone uses it in baking; be it a savory or sweet delight. It automatically uplifts the mood. Due to this aspect, this spice works well in fragrant products as well. Besides, the smell of freshly ground or baked cinnamon doesn’t even leave our furry friends behind. These man’s best friends easily fall in love with it. And the good news is that this ingredient gives great health benefits to a dog. So, the next time your dog craves a bite of this condiment, give it the taste of it happily.
#1 Reduces Inflammation
Cinnamon helps in reducing inflammation in dogs and humans. Furthermore, it is beneficial for dogs with swollen knees and joints, arthritis, and other mobility issues. Thus, those who are wondering, ‘can dog have cinnamon?’, must have got the answer.
#2 Controls Diabetes
This spice helps in reducing the absorption of insulin into the body’s bloodstream. This, in turn, helps lower blood sugar and sugar intake in general in dogs. So the next time someone asks you, ‘is cinnamon ok for dogs?’, let them know that it’s great for keeping their pet’s sugar levels under check.
#3 Fights Foreign Bodies
Did you know that cinnamon has antibiotic qualities? Thus, it fights effectively against bacteria, viruses, and viral infections present in canines by hindering bacterial growth.
#4 Improves Brain Functioning
A bit of this spice may amplify a pup’s brain functioning by inhibiting brain cell damage and improving neuron and motor skills. So, include this ingredient in your pooch’s diet in limited quantities.
#5 Rich in Antioxidants
An antioxidant like polyphenol helps build up better immunity against viruses, infection, increased sun exposure, damage, inflammation, etc. Therefore, those dogs with weak immune systems can consume cinnamon.
#6 Reduces Digestive Disorders
Does your loyal mate frequently fall prey to digestive conditions? Then give him this spice without any hesitation. This ingredient acts as a soothing agent for an upset stomach or any digestive disorder like vomiting, heartburn, nausea, etc.
What to do if Your Dog Eats Too Much Cinnamon?
Cinnamon does have its health benefits, but a little too much can be risky. Knowing your cinnamon type and quantity is extremely important here. The ideal quantity is 1 teaspoon or less, which provides health benefits. Exceeding this limit to enhance health benefits only invites complications.
But, before knowing what quantity is apt, let’s know what makes it a risky condiment. This spice has coumarin, which is harmful to canines as well as humans if consumed in larger quantities. Now, this coumarin is present in lower quantities in Ceylon cinnamon, which is a common type that everyone uses. Whereas Cassia cinnamon has a larger quantity of coumarin, and thus, we must avoid it.
Now that we know which type is better let us see what quantity is agreeable.
- The maximum quantity allowed is approx. 1 teaspoon.
- Start slow and gradually increase as per need.
- Remember not to go over 1 teaspoon. More than a teaspoon, and you may ask for health problems in your pet.
- Besides, ground and sprinkled cinnamon over baked food is a better option as it aids digestion.
What to do if Your Dog Eats Too Much Cinnamon?
Cinnamon is not toxic, and therefore, you might not need to worry unless you spot these symptoms exhibited by your dog. Nevertheless, one must consider certain things like a dog’s breed and its underlying health conditions when deciding on a prognosis. While smaller breeds may require smaller amounts than the ideal 1 teaspoon, bigger breeds can handle larger quantities of this ingredient. Regardless, consult a vet nearby as soon as possible if you spot any of these symptoms or a combination of them when your dog eats this spice in large quantities. We advise you to simply consult your vet without giving any medication to your pet on your own.
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Heart Palpitation and Rapid Heartbeat
- Sore Mouth
- Difficulty in Breathing
- Wheezing
- Fluctuation in Blood Sugar Levels
Infusing cinnamon in baked food does induce better taste and enhances the flavors. However, canines should not frequently consume cinnamon-loaded treats just because it seems healthy and fine at the moment. Cinnamon for dogs should be seldom used, as using it frequently in their diet may expose them to higher levels of risks. Using it more often means it would be readily available in your pantry, which your dog could easily access and gobble up in bulk quantities, and we do not want that kind of risk.
Nutmeg and Cinnamon for Dogs
Nutmeg and cinnamon are a common combination in most foods that humans love to devour. Although, like cinnamon, many people would consider nutmeg a harmless spice to dogs. Contrary to that belief, it should not be fed to your dog. Nutmeg is safe for humans and is used widely in desserts and winter special savories like pumpkin pie, eggnog, etc. Many of the ingredients might not pose a risk, but if nutmeg is in it, avoid giving that particular item to dogs completely.
Myristicin is the element in nutmeg, which makes it toxic for dog consumption. A large amount of nutmeg consumption could be hazardous. Although the chances of bulk consumption are relatively low but not negligible, and hence as pet parents, we must be cautious. Besides, some questions, ‘Can dogs eat cinnamon rolls?’. We must say no. That’s because cinnamon rolls have nutmeg in large quantities. This being said, if accidental consumption or inhalation of nutmeg in any form is detected, reach a vet at the earliest. Symptoms might worsen with time if there are pre-existing medical conditions too.
Conclusion
Our furry friends are allergic to many human foods as most of them contain salt, chocolates, other preservatives, and additives that are harmful to their system. Keeping a watchful eye does help, but it is better to avoid the cause completely. Spices like nutmeg and cinnamon are easily found in treats and snacks and might end up on their platter more if festivals are around the corner. In such situations, keeping them disciplined and entertained can be a bit tricky. Giving them a healthy diet is always better, followed by monitored treats for change. Regardless, if you ask, ‘is cinnamon bad for dogs?’, we must say not at all if he eats in limited quantities.