Cinnamon is a tasty spice that not only adds flavor to your life but also offers health benefits for your dog. Contrary to popular belief, cinnamon is not toxic for dogs and can actually be a great supplement to their diet. However, it’s important to give them the right kind of cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon) in moderation to avoid stomach upset. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of cinnamon for dogs, signs that your dog might benefit from it, and the potential risks of overconsumption. We will also discuss the historical health benefits of cinnamon for dogs and the science behind its use. Lastly, we will provide tips on how to train your dog to eat cinnamon if they are a picky eater.
“Moderation is key – a little sprinkle of cinnamon can benefit your dog, but too much can cause harm.”
Tips & Things to Know
1️⃣ Cinnamon can offer health benefits to your dog including anti-inflammatory properties, slowing bacterial growth, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels, especially in older or obese dogs. Always consult with a vet before introducing cinnamon into your dog’s diet.
2️⃣ The type of cinnamon you should use is Ceylon cinnamon due to its low levels of courmarin, a compound that could cause issues if ingested in large amounts. Chinese cinnamon, which contains higher levels of coumarin, should be avoided.
3️⃣ Overconsumption of cinnamon can lead to health issues in dogs including liver problems, low blood sugar, changes in heart rate, and gastrointestinal issues. Signs of overconsumption can include vomiting, diarrhea, changes in behavior such as pacing and drooling, and changes in body language like ears back and dilated pupils. Always monitor your dog’s behavior and health if you introduce cinnamon into their diet.
Frequently Asked Questions, Answered ✅
1. Is cinnamon toxic for dogs?
No, cinnamon is non-toxic for dogs.
2. How can cinnamon benefit my dog’s health?
Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar, raise insulin resistance, fight yeast infections, and reduce inflammation in dogs.
3. What are the signs that my dog may have ingested too much cinnamon?
Signs of over-consumption of cinnamon in dogs include vomiting, bowel issues, diarrhea, constipation, bloody stool, itchiness, coughing, choking, and difficulty breathing.
4. What is the safe amount of cinnamon to give to my dog?
The safe amount of cinnamon to give to a dog depends on their weight. Generally, it is recommended to start with 1/8 teaspoon daily for dogs weighing 1-10 pounds and up to 2 teaspoons for dogs over 100 pounds. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before feeding cinnamon to your dog.
5. How can I train my picky eater dog to eat cinnamon?
Establish a specific feeding schedule and make it clear that the food provided is the only option. Positive reinforcement training can also be used, such as rewarding the dog for taking water or essential cinnamon oil from an eye dropper.
