Can Dogs Eat Honey?

As pet parents, we’re always looking for ways to treat our fur babies with love—and sometimes that means sharing a little snack. And sometimes a sweet, gooey snack. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can dogs eat honey?” you’re not alone. The idea of sharing something as sweet and natural as honey with your dog is tempting, but is it really safe? Let’s dive into the sweet truth about honey and whether it’s a treat you should offer to your pup.

Moderation is Key

The short answer to “can dogs eat honey?” is yes, BUT… in moderation. Honey is a natural product that many people swear by for its health benefits—and surprisingly, it can offer some benefits for your dog as well. 

Benefits of Honey for Dogs: Is It All Just a Sweet Treat?

When consumed in moderation, honey can offer a few health benefits for your dog. Here’s a look at some of the reasons you might want to share this golden goodness with your pup:

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Honey contains a wide variety of antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help fight free radicals in the body. This can be especially useful for dogs with inflammatory conditions or those prone to certain diseases, as antioxidants help neutralize harmful compounds that can cause oxidative damage.

2. A Natural Energy Boost

Got a high-energy dog who loves to run, play, and fetch? Honey can be a natural source of quick energy. Its natural sugars, like fructose and glucose, are easily absorbed and digested, providing your dog with a burst of energy. This can be especially helpful for working dogs or dogs that get a lot of exercise.

3. Supports Digestive Health

Honey has natural prebiotic properties, meaning it can promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. If your dog suffers from occasional digestive upset, a small amount of honey could help soothe the stomach and support overall digestive health. Just be sure to avoid using honey as a substitute for proper veterinary care if your dog has a more serious digestive condition.

4. Allergy Relief? Maybe!

Some studies suggest that local honey can help with seasonal allergies in both humans and pets. The theory is that by consuming small amounts of honey made from local flowers, your dog might be exposed to small doses of the pollen causing their allergies. Over time, this could help desensitize your dog to those allergens and reduce symptoms like itching and sneezing. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.

When Should You Avoid Honey for Your Dog?

While honey has a lot of potential benefits, it’s not for every dog. Here are a few scenarios when you should skip the honey treat:

1. Dogs with Diabetes or Weight Issues

Honey is high in natural sugars, so if your dog has diabetes or struggles with weight management, honey is best avoided. The sugar content could cause blood sugar spikes, which can lead to health complications for diabetic dogs. It’s best to consult with your vet before adding any sugary foods to your dog’s diet.

2. Puppies Under 12 Weeks Old

You may have heard that honey can be used as a natural remedy for puppies to help with sore throats or digestive issues. While honey is generally safe for adult dogs, it’s recommended to avoid honey in puppies under 12 weeks old. Their digestive systems are still developing, and honey could cause upset stomachs or, in rare cases, botulism. Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by bacteria that can affect young puppies, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

3. Allergic Reactions to Honey

It’s very rare, but some dogs can have allergic reactions to honey. If you notice symptoms like swelling, hives, or excessive itching after feeding your dog honey, contact your vet immediately. It’s possible your dog could be allergic to certain pollens in the honey.

How to Give Honey to Your Dog: Creative Ideas

If your dog is giving you the puppy eyes for a sweet treat, here are some fun and safe ways to introduce honey into their diet:

• As a Topping: Drizzle a small amount of honey over their regular food or use it as a tasty topping on their dry kibble.
• Frozen Treats: Blend some honey in water and freee in ice cube trays for a cool treat your dog can enjoy on a warm day. You can even mix it with a little peanut butter or mashed bananas for an extra special frozen snack!

• As a Training Treat: If your dog loves treats, consider using honey as part of a homemade treat recipe. Combine it with whole wheat flour, oats, or even some carrot puree to make healthy dog cookies.
• With Medication: If your dog needs to take medication, a small amount of honey can help mask the taste and make it easier to get them to swallow their pill.

CAUTION: Too Much Honey Can Cause Weight Gain

As sweet as honey is, it’s also calorie-dense. If your dog eats too much, they could gain weight. If you’re giving your dog honey as a treat, keep the serving small—one teaspoon for small dogs and one tablespoon for larger dogs should be plenty.

The Sweet Takeaway

Can dogs eat honey? Yes, honey can be a safe and healthy treat for your dog when given in moderation. It’s full of nutrients, natural sugars, and antioxidants that can benefit your pet in small doses. However, it’s important to be cautious—especially with puppies, diabetic dogs, and those with weight concerns. As with any treat, always consult with your vet before adding honey or any new food to your dog’s diet.

Protect Your Pup with Pet Insurance

While honey is a sweet addition to your dog’s treat jar, the reality is that our pets’ health can sometimes take unexpected turns. Whether it’s a sudden illness, an allergy, or a health emergency, pet insurance is a valuable tool in protecting your dog’s health—and your wallet.

By investing in pet insurance, you can help cover the cost of unexpected vet visits, treatments, and even preventative care. Just like you wouldn’t want to risk your pet’s health without the right protection, you also don’t want to worry about the financial burden that could come with medical expenses.

Get pet insurance today and give your dog the care they deserve. Because keeping them healthy and happy is the sweetest thing you can do. 

References:

1. Aw Yong PY, Islam F, Harith HH, Israf DA, Tan JW, Tham CL. The Potential use of Honey as a Remedy for Allergic Diseases: A Mini Review. Front Pharmacol. 2021 Jan 26;11:599080. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2020.599080. PMID: 33574752; PMCID: PMC7870997.
2. https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-honey
3. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-honey/

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.