Can Dogs Eat Honey? – All you need to know

Featured image by © bigstockphoto.com / otsphoto

Can Dogs Eat Honey?

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and natural sugars, honey is believed to be one of the oldest medicines due to its antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

It is used to fight bacteria, reduce inflammation, treat sore throats, stomach ulcers, and allergies.

But is it safe for your furry friend to consume and digest? Can dogs eat honey?

Honey: Health Benefits

High-quality honey is rich in antioxidants, helps lower blood pressure, improves cholesterol, and lowers triglycerides.

Scientists believe that the combination of vitamins and minerals it contains gives honey its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant power. Antioxidants have been linked to numerous benefits, including reduced risk of strokes, heart attacks, and cancer. The antioxidants compounds are also linked to lower blood pressure. People who consume honey regularly have shown reductions in blood pressure and significant improvements in cholesterol.

Considering it is full of vitamins and healthy compounds, it is safe to add honey to your four-legged friend’s diet. In general, honey is safe for dogs to consume, with minor limitations. Most supermarket honey products are processed and include low-quality ingredients. Non-organic honey negates many health benefits, so you and your dog stick to organic, raw honey.

Side Effects to Honey Consumption in Dogs

Some may be allergic to specific honey compounds such as bee pollen. While rare, bee pollen allergies can cause adverse reactions and serious consequences.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Irregular heart rhythms

Some dogs may not be able to reap honey benefits. If your dog falls into the following categories, it is best to avoid giving them honey:

Allergic to Bees

Pets can develop bee allergy, especially dogs that are hypersensitive.

Diabetic Dogs

Honey contains a high glycemic index, which can affect blood sugar. If your dog is diabetic, it is best to avoid honey.

Obese Dogs

Given the high caloric value, honey shouldn’t be given to overweight dogs. If your dog loves honey, give them in small quantities, and watch for weight gain. If they are gaining weight, stop giving them honey.

can dogs eat honey? is it safe?
Honey dripping from honey dipper in wooden bowl. © bigstockphoto.com / Subbotina Anna

What Dog Conditions Can be Treated with Honey?

Because of its numerous health benefits, honey can be used as a treatment plan for different canine conditions.

 

Wound Care

From minor infections to burns and pressure sores, honey is proven beneficial for treating wounds. Applying raw honey can reduce inflammation, fight bacteria, and stimulate skin regrowth.

 

Digestion

Many dogs suffer from digestive issues. Luckily, honey is an organic product that can help fight gastrointestinal diseases, including colitis, gastritis, and IBDs.

 

Mobility Improvement

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities can help older dogs move around more quickly. With consuming honey daily, dogs may have improvements in arthritis joints.

How Much Honey Can Dogs Consume

While honey is safe for dogs to consume, it does contain certain compounds that may be harmful to dogs. Unlike other “people” foods, honey is not that difficult to digest because it is already pre-absorbed by bees, so it is easy on a pet’s stomach.

 

When it comes to quantity, experts suggest one teaspoon of honey a day. It is enough to reap honey’s benefits, improve their energy levels, and provide a quick boost in mood.

 

If you are not sure how much honey your dog can consume (every dog’s needs vary), it is best to discuss the feeding regime with your veterinarian.

How to Add Honey To Your Dog’s Diet

Now that you know the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat honey,” you wonder what treats to prepare.

We suggest you try the banana and honey combination.

Ingredients:

  • Two cups of water
  • Two bananas
  • Two tablespoons honey
  • One egg 4 ½ cups of flour
  • One teaspoon baking powder

Preheat the oven to 175 degrees C. Combine the bananas, water, egg, honey, and flour in a large bowl. Start mixing, and once the ingredients are combined, add the baking powder. Roll out dough and cut into preferred shapes. Bake for about 20 minutes, leave them to cool and serve.