Is Honey Good for Dogs?

If you’re a dog owner, you’re probably familiar with the never-ending quest to find the best and healthiest treats for your dog. One question that often comes up is whether honey is good for dogs. After all, honey is a natural sweetener with a range of potential health benefits. But is it safe to share this golden goodness with your dog? In this blog post, we’ll share the topic of honey for dogs, and find out its potential benefits and risks.

Is Honey Good for Dogs?

Whether honey is “good” for dogs depends on the context and how it’s given. Here’s a breakdown:

In small amounts, honey can be safe for most dogs:

• Rich in antioxidants: Honey contains natural antioxidants that can benefit your dog’s health by protecting cells from damage.
• Natural energy source: Honey provides a quick energy boost, which can be helpful for active dogs or during recovery from illness.
• Soothes coughs: A small amount of honey can help soothe a minor cough in dogs.

However, there are also some considerations:

• High in sugar: Honey is concentrated sugar, and excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and even diabetes in dogs with underlying health conditions.
• Not suitable for puppies: Due to the risk of botulism spores, honey is not recommended for puppies under 1 year old.
• Raw honey risks: Raw honey may contain botulism spores, which can be harmful to dogs and humans. Opt for pasteurized honey instead.
• Moderation is key: Even for healthy dogs, honey should be a rare treat given in very small quantities. A teaspoon or less per day is a safe guideline.

Ultimately, consult your veterinarian before giving your dog honey or any new food. They can advise on the best approach based on your dog’s individual needs and health status.

Benefits of Honey for Dogs

Honey can offer several benefits for your dog. Here’s why it can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet:

1. Natural Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: Honey has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great option for treating minor wounds, cuts, and skin irritations in dogs.
2. Immune System Support: Honey contains antioxidants that can support your dog’s immune system, helping to fight off illnesses and boost overall health.
3. Soothing Effect on Coughs: Honey can provide relief for dogs with minor coughs or throat irritations. Its smooth texture can help coat the throat and reduce irritation.
4. Digestive Aid: Honey can act as a digestive aid for dogs with occasional digestive issues. Its natural enzymes can help improve digestion and promote better nutrient absorption.
5. Energy Boost: Honey is a natural source of carbohydrates, providing a quick energy boost for dogs. It can be particularly beneficial for active dogs or those in need of an extra energy boost.
6. Allergy Relief: Feeding your dog honey from local beekeepers may help with seasonal allergies. The small amounts of flower pollen present in honey can introduce antibodies to your dog’s body, reducing the likelihood of an allergic response to airborne pollen.

Choosing the Right Type of Honey for Dogs

Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:

1. Look for Raw, Unprocessed Honey:
Opt for raw, unprocessed honey as it contains higher levels of enzymes, antioxidants, and beneficial nutrients. Raw honey is obtained directly from the hive without any heating, filtering, or processing. This preserves its natural properties and ensures that your dog gets all the goodness it has to offer.

2. Consider Local and Organic Honey:
Support local beekeepers by choosing honey that is locally sourced. Local honey helps dogs build tolerance to the specific allergens found in your area. Additionally, when buying honey, opt for organic varieties to avoid pesticides or other harmful chemicals that can be present in conventionally farmed honey.

3. Look for Manuka Honey with High Methylglyoxal (MGO) Levels:
Manuka honey, especially from the Southern Hemisphere, can be highly beneficial for dogs due to its antibacterial properties. Look for Manuka honey with a high Methylglyoxal (MGO) level, as this indicates its antimicrobial strength.

4. Avoid Flavored or Processed Honey:
Steer clear of flavored or processed honey as they often contain added sugars, artificial flavorings, or preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. Stick to simple, natural honey without any additives.

How to Feed Honey to Your Dog?

Feeding honey to your dog can be a healthy addition to their diet, but it’s important to do it right. Here are some guidelines to help you safely and effectively feed honey to your dog:

1. Start with raw honey

First and foremost, it’s best to opt for raw honey when feeding it to your dog. Raw honey retains all of its natural enzymes, which can offer health benefits. The pasteurization process used for commercial honey kills these beneficial enzymes, so it’s ideal to choose raw honey whenever possible[^1].

2. Choose honey from local beekeepers

For dogs with seasonal allergies, honey can provide relief. Local honey contains trace amounts of flower pollen, and slowly introducing it to your dog’s diet can help them build up antibodies against airborne pollen[^2]. So, when selecting honey for your dog, consider getting it from local beekeepers.

3. Follow the right portion sizes

Remember, everything in moderation is key when feeding honey to your dog. The appropriate portion size depends on your dog’s weight:

• Small dogs under 10 lbs: ¼ teaspoon per day
• Medium dogs 10-20 lbs: ½ teaspoon per day
• Larger dogs 20-50 lbs: 1 teaspoon per day
• Large breed dogs over 50 lbs: 2 teaspoons per day

Stick to these recommended portion sizes to ensure your dog gets the right amount of honey without overdoing it[^2].

4. Oral feeding method

To feed honey to your dog, the easiest method is through oral feeding. Simply scoop up the honey with a spoon and pour it into your dog’s mouth. However, honey can be slow to slide off a spoon, so consider running the spoon under hot water first to make it easier[^2].

5. Consider your dog’s health

If your dog has diabetes or is at risk for it, it’s best to avoid giving them honey altogether. Honey can impact blood sugar levels, so it’s essential to prioritize your dog’s health and consult with your vet if necessary[^3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is honey good for a dog’s upset stomach?

Honey can be soothing for a dog’s upset stomach, especially for minor issues like overeating or mild indigestion. However, if the stomach upset persists, it is important to seek medical treatment for your dog and avoid feeding them honey.

What happens if a dog eats honey?

Eating honey in small quantities is safe for dogs. Honey can even provide antioxidant benefits to your pup, protecting their body cells from damage. However, it is important to feed honey in moderation and follow proper guidelines.