Honey for Dogs? Is it Safe?

Is there anything more natural than honey? A true gift from Mother Nature, you might wonder about honey for dogs. Is it safe? 

Is Honey Safe for Dogs?

When you think of honey, you probably start to envision Pooh chasing his honey pot. However, that’s a bear and a dog might be different so you are probably wondering if your canine can enjoy the sweet nectar. The answer to that question is a resounding, ‘yes’. Honey in small quantities is perfectly safe for dogs. In fact, it contains not only natural sugars but is also loaded with vitamins and minerals that are beneficial and provide many wholesome perks. 

Feeding Your Dog Honey 

Honey is considered a high sugar food so if your dog is obese then you will want to offer it only as an occasional treat. Plus, honey can lead to tooth decay, so it is a good idea to take the time to brush your dog’s teeth after giving the pooch the honey to remove the sticky residue. 

Avoid Raw Honey 

Avoid feeding raw honey to puppies or any canine who suffers from a compromised immune system. Raw honey can contain botulism spores. However, honey that you purchase in stores has typically be processed and is perfectly safe. 

Honey and History 

Honey is purported to have many health benefits and it has been used for centuries. The ancient Egyptians used honey to stave off infection and pots of honey have been found entombed with pharaohs to enjoy in the afterlife. 

The Benefits of Honey for Humans and Dogs 

Many mothers give their children a spoonful of honey to ease a cough, soothe a sore throat, and calm an upset stomach. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of honey are a definite reality. How much honey can actually help your dog’s health is unknown for sure but even in excess it can’t hurt your pooch, and, without a doubt, most dogs love the sweetness of the golden sticky fluid. Even giving your dog a piece of honeycomb is a welcome treat. 

Honey and Allergies 

Some people believe that honey can cure seasonal allergies. However, currently there is not any concrete scientific evidence that shows if this is true or not. Clearly, more research is needed. The theory is that honey is made from the pollen of a wide array of flowers so giving honey to an allergy sufferer helps reduce the allergic reaction. 

Topical Honey

Dogs who suffer from hot spots, allergic skin reactions, insect bites, eczema, scratches, or other wounds might benefit from the topical application of honey directly to the irritated area. Honey naturally boasts exceptionally low levels of hydrogen peroxide which acts as an antiseptic. It will naturally sanitize the area and help to heal the tissue. Honey also appears to ease pain and inflammation. 

Prior to feeding your dog honey, you should talk to your veterinarian. If your pooch sufferers from diabetes or certain other health conditions, then you might be advised to avoid giving your canine the sweet treat.