Can I Give My Dog Honey?
Yes, most healthy adult dogs can safely eat small amounts of honey as a treat. Whether it’s raw honey or processed honey, moderation is the key. While honey contains antioxidants and natural sugars that may provide some benefits – always consult your veterinarian first. Let’s look at some reasons you might consider giving your dog a treat made with honey.
Beyond being a beekeeper, I am a big time animal lover. I believe in the benefits of raw honey. However, do keep in mind that dogs, cats and yes even donkeys – are very different from humans. Honey is not a cure or a necessary part of a dog’s diet.
Can Dogs Safely Eat Honey?
In general, eating honey in small amounts is considered safe for dogs – even the American Kennel Club agrees.
Upon asking my local veterinarian if it was safe to give a bit of honey to my small Papillion – he said “sure -try it”. But, keep in mind that he only weighs 9 pounds.
Always, consult your veterinarian before feeding any human foods to your dog.
Raw Honey vs Regular Honey
Do you know the difference between raw honey and regular honey on your grocery shelf? In truth, there may not be much difference because you are depending on the truthfulness of the label.
Yet, most people agree that raw honey contains all of the beneficial enzymes, bits of pollen, etc that were put there by the bees.
Processed honey has been filtered and possibly heated – processes which could remove some of the natural goodness.
What Makes Honey Different?
Honey is more than just a natural sweetener—it also contains small amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and beneficial enzymes that come from flower nectar.
While these nutrients aren’t present in large enough quantities to make honey a significant health food for dogs, they are one reason many pet owners choose raw honey as an occasional treat.
Potential Health Benefits
Other than giving them a sweet treat (which does make us smile – admit it), why would people want to give honey to their dog?
When Honey Isn’t a Good Choice for Dogs
There are always some risks involved in giving our pets “human food”.
Seek Veterinarian Advice
It is extremely important to consult your veterinarian before feeding honey to your dog. Any underlying health conditions or dietary restrictions should be considered.
Your vet will also be able to offer suggestions on using honey as a supplement. This includes safe dosages, frequency and method of application.
Honey Dosage Guidelines
I would use these amounts as a maximum and likely would not give it to them every day. (Unless I was trying to combat seasonal allergies)
This post may contain affiliate links. Carolina Honeybees earns a tiny commission when you shop from our links. See our privacy policy for terms.
Easy Ways to Serve Honey
If you’d like to give your dog a little honey, keep the serving size small and offer it as an occasional treat rather than a daily addition. There are several easy ways to include honey in dog-friendly snacks.
- Mix it into plain yogurt for a creamy treat that’s especially refreshing on warm days.
- Spread a thin layer on a frozen lick mat to provide enrichment and help your dog stay occupied.
- Stuff a small amount inside a Kong toy along with peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or other dog-safe fillings. (I often used this method).
- Drizzle a tiny bit over homemade or store-bought dog treats to add a touch of natural sweetness.
My pup loved honey mixed with a little peanut butter and then frozen inside one of those rubber Kong toys. On a hot day he play with that toy for hours to get the treat out. Works for big dogs too – just be sure to get a larger kong.
Alternative Uses of Honey for Dogs
Used for wound care in humans for thousands of years, honey can be applied to minor wounds on your dog too. You can even dab a bit of honey on the site for a bee sting – in case your dog tries to eat a bee.
And best of all, if the dog removes the bandage and licks it – I don’t have to worry about him ingesting nasty chemicals.
FAQs
The amount of honey that is safe to give your dog depends on the size of the dog and it’s particular health condition. Small dogs should only get a tiny amount of honey per day – around 1/4 tsp.
Yes, some pet owners believe that local honey helps their pets with seasonal allergies too.
Because honey is a raw food, it is best to avoid giving honey to puppies, frail elderly dogs or sick dogs unless directed by your veterinarian to do so.
Final Thoughts
We dog lovers want to do everything we can to make their life better. Giving your dog a taste of honey can be a sweet treat or a healthy boost. However, always do so in moderation and with the safe guidance of your veterinarian. Just because it is good for us – does not guarantee that it is safe for our pups.
**This article is for educational purposes and should not replace veterinary advice. If your dog has diabetes, obesity, allergies, or another medical condition, consult your veterinarian before introducing honey.
Charlotte, thanks for this article on dogs and honey. We are a dog family (along with other critters). This year after we extracted our frames, I allowed them to help help with the clean up. They are always eager to help clean up when I’m cooking out or in the kitchen or any other time that food is in the room. So I did not think it was a problem. WRONG! It seems I let them over indulged a little to much and a few hours later I was cleaning dog barf off the living room floor for a while that evening (yes they are inside dogs). They still like honey, but I don’t let them help clean up after extracting anymore.
P.S. I enjoy your articles.
Hi Vince, Oh no – poor babies. Well overindulging in anything can be an issue. I used to mix a small amount of honey with peanut butter for my little Papillion. He lived to be 18 – gone for 2 years now and I still miss him – every – single – day. Thanks for the comment.