Can dogs eat honey: – 9Honey

Honey is the perfect dash of sweetness to drizzle over a snack or breakfast on the go.

So, while we know dogs should steer clear of sweet treats like chocolate and those that contain xylitol, does the same ring true for honey?

Honey is OK to feed to dogs. But there’s some things you need to be on the lookout for, including one popular treat with honey in it that can cause digestive issues.

9Honey Pets has asked Veterinary Associate, Dr Emma Maley from Greencross Vets everything dog owners need to know about honey.

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Is honey toxic for dogs?

The short answer is no.

Much like for humans, Dr Maley says honey can actually have some health benefits for dogs, such as soothing sore throats.

One thing to note about honey is its high sugar content. 

While not toxic to pups, the vet says honey should only be given in moderation, as too much “can lead to weight gain or digestive issues like diarrhea.”

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“This is especially true for dogs that are diabetic or overweight, and a conversation with a veterinarian should occur before giving honey to any pet with underlying health changes,” she cautions.

Additionally, avoid honey that contains added ingredients like xylitol.

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol which is toxic to dogs and found in treats such as peanut butter.

Can dogs eat honey raw?

Raw honey is generally considered healthier for humans.

You’re OK to feed your dog raw honey, but again, only in moderation. 

According to Dr Maley, raw honey can support energy production and the immune system as it contains natural enzymes, antioxidants, and antibacterial properties.

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However, she warns: “The benefits don’t correspond directly with the volume given, so don’t be confused in thinking the benefits will be twice as great if given twice as much!”

She advises to monitor your pup for any allergic reactions.

Dr. Katrina Warren says you should avoid giving raw honey to puppies and dogs with compromised immune systems, as it might contain botulism spores, which can make them sick.

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How much honey can you give your dog?

How much honey you can feed your dog depends on their breed, size, health and diet.

“It’s important to keep honey as an occasional treat, not a daily addition to their diet, due to its high sugar content,” Dr Maley says, suggesting you can mix it with water.

For the exact OK amount, the vet says half a teaspoon of honey for small dog breeds. Meanwhile, larger dogs can have more than double that – up to two teaspoons. 

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Is honey safe in dog treats?

Much like how we add honey to sweeten smoothies or on our oats in the morning, honey can be used as a natural sweetener in dog treats.

If you’re adding honey to homemade treats, Dr. Maley tells 9Honey Pets to use “sparingly” and check the ingredients are safe for dogs to consume.

She adds the treats should “complement a complete and balanced diet and not make up a large component of it.”

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Can dogs eat honeycomb?

Honeycomb, while not toxic, can cause some potential health issues for dogs.

Dr Maley reveals it can be harder for dogs to digest and therefore cause stomach upset.

“Honeycomb contains both the honey and the beeswax, which can be tougher to chew, and some dogs may swallow large portions which could cause digestive problems,” she explains.

The vets cautions to only give honeycomb to dogs in small amounts or avoid completely.

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