The short answer: Yes, dogs can enjoy honey in moderation! 🍯 This natural sweetener isn’t just delicious; it has antioxidants & minerals that benefit your pup. But because honey is high in sugar, it’s best served as an occasional treat in small amounts and never given to dogs with diabetes.  

Honey isn’t just a tasty snack—it has some benefits when served responsibly in small amounts. Here’s what makes it a great addition to your dog’s diet:

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Honey has antioxidants that help protect your dog’s cells from damage, support their immune system, and even reduce inflammation.

2. Trace Nutrients

With vitamins like B and C and minerals like calcium and potassium.

3. Soothes Scratchy Throats

A spoonful of honey can be a soothing remedy for a scratchy throat or minor irritation, thanks to its natural antibacterial properties.

4. Allergy Support

Local honey may help desensitize dogs to seasonal pollen, potentially easing environmental allergies over time. Honey contains quercetin, a natural compound that may help reduce allergy symptoms.

5. Boosts Digestion

Honey’s natural enzymes can aid digestion and soothe mild stomach discomfort.

5. Topical Treatment

Honey can be used topically on dogs to promote wound healing, prevent infection, and soothe minor cuts or burns, thanks to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Honey is a versatile ingredient that’s not just for eating. Here’s how it can be used both topically and internally for dogs:

 1. Topical Uses  

Honey is used in veterinary practices for its powerful antibacterial and healing properties. Medical-grade honey has been studied for treating:

•  Canine otitis externa (ear infections) :  PubMed Study

•  Canine nasal intertrigo (skin folds):   PubMed Study

• Wound care and minor cuts.

Its ability to fight infection and promote healing makes it an excellent addition to your first-aid kit.

 2. Internal Uses 

•  Digestive Health : Raw, organic, local honey is ideal for soothing mild digestive issues.

•  Allergies : Local honey, thanks to its quercetin content, is often given to dogs with seasonal allergies to help desensitize them to environmental allergens.

•  Research in Animals : While honey’s benefits have been well-documented in humans, studies on its internal use in dogs are still limited. Research in rats and horses shows promises depending on the honey you choose.

3. Considerations for Diabetic Dogs

Honey is not recommended for diabetic dogs due to its high sugar content, which can cause harmful blood sugar spikes.

Dosage Guidelines

We recommend following the honey feeding guide from Dogs Naturally Magazine.

1. Raw Honey

•  Description:  Unprocessed and unpasteurized, raw honey retains natural enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients.

•  Benefits:  Supports your dog’s immune system, soothes throats, and may help with seasonal allergies when locally sourced.

•  Caution:  Avoid raw honey for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with weakened immune systems, as it may contain botulism spores.

2. Manuka Honey

•  Description:  Sourced from the nectar of New Zealand’s Manuka tree, this honey is prized for its strong antibacterial properties.

•  Benefits:  Excellent for wound healing when applied topically and supports digestion and immune health when fed in small amounts.

 3. Clover Honey 

•  Description:  A mild-flavored, light-colored honey made from clover flowers.

•  Benefits:  Rich in antioxidants and easily accessible, clover honey is a great all-purpose option for treats or recipes.

 4. Wildflower Honey 

• Description:  Made from the nectar of various wildflowers, this honey offers a mix of nutrients and flavors.

• Benefits:  When locally sourced, wildflower honey may help desensitize dogs to seasonal pollen, supporting allergy relief.

Honey-Boost Dog Topper  

Add a nutritional kick to any meal!

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

• ½ tsp honey

• ½ cup shredded carrot

• ¼ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed

 Instructions: 

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

2. Stir until smooth.

3. Portion into containers and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Dog Cookie Treat Recipe – Peanut Butter & Honey

Bake a batch of these Easy Dog Cookie Treats for your pup!

• ½ Cup Peanut Butter (natural, no added sugar or salt)
• 2 Tbsp Honey
• ¼ Tsp Salt
• ½ Tsp Baking Powder
• 1¾ Cups Oat Flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix peanut butter and honey in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Add salt, baking powder, and oat flour. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before serving.

Store in an airtight container and enjoy!