Honey, loved for its flavor and potential health benefits, often raises questions among dog owners. Can our pets enjoy this natural sweetener too? The answer is YES, but with certain precautions and in moderation.
Is Honey Good for Dogs?
Honey is non-toxic to dogs and can be safely consumed in small quantities. In fact, it offers several potential benefits for your canine companion. Honey is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and boost the immune system. It also contains various vitamins and minerals, including ascorbic acid, niacin, riboflavin, and minerals like calcium, copper, iron, and magnesium.2
Some types of honey, like Manuka honey, are believed to have antimicrobial properties that can aid in wound healing and soothe sore throats. While these benefits are promising, more research is needed to confirm their efficacy in dogs.1
Can Honey Be Bad for Dogs?
While honey has potential benefits, it's crucial to remember that it's high in sugar. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to health problems in dogs, including obesity, diabetes, and dental issues.2 Therefore, honey should only be given in moderation as an occasional treat, not a regular part of your dog's diet.
How Much Honey Can Dogs Safely Eat?
The amount of honey your dog can safely consume depends on their size and individual health conditions. As a general guideline, treats, including honey, should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.3 The following are approximate serving sizes for different dog sizes:
Extra-small dog (2–20 pounds): 1/4 teaspoon
Small dog (21–30 pounds): 1/2 teaspoon
Medium dog (31–50 pounds): 1 teaspoon
Large dog (51–90 pounds): 2 teaspoons
Extra-large dog (91+ pounds): 1 tablespoon
Remember, these are just guidelines, and it's essential to consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on how much honey is appropriate for your dog.
How to Feed Your Dog Honey
There are several ways to offer honey to your dog:
Directly from a spoon: Let your dog lick a small amount of honey from a spoon as a special treat.
Mixed with food: Add a drizzle of honey to your dog's regular food to enhance its flavor and provide a nutritional boost.
Frozen in a Kong toy: Combine honey with peanut butter or plain yogurt and freeze it in a Kong toy for a fun and engaging treat.
Blended into a smoothie: Mix honey with dog-safe fruits and vegetables and plain, sugar-free yogurt for a refreshing and healthy smoothie.
A Note of Caution
If your dog has diabetes or is overweight, avoid giving them honey or consult your veterinarian for alternative treats. Raw honey should not be given to puppies or dogs with compromised immune systems, as it may contain botulism spores.1
Honey can be a sweet and healthy treat for your dog when given responsibly. By following the guidelines above and consulting your veterinarian, you can help ensure your pet enjoys the benefits of honey without any adverse effects.
Expert Insight From Spot
While sharing our favorite foods with our pets can be tempting, it's important to remember that not all human foods are safe for dogs. Spot's internal data shows that pet insurance claims for dietary indiscretions average $642*, highlighting the importance of caution and research before sharing snacks with your pet.
How Spot Pet Insurance Can Help
Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible.
*Jan 2019 to April 2024 administrator claims data.
Burke, Anna. “Can Dogs Eat Honey?” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 4 Aug. 2022, www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-honey/.
Arnold, Victoria Lynn. “Can Dogs Eat Honey?” PetMD, PetMD, 15 Feb. 2024, www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-honey.
Burke, Anna. “How Many Treats to Give a Dog a Day.” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 7 Feb. 2023, www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/how-many-treats-can-dog-have/.
The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.
