Can dogs eat honey?
Last updated 2026-05-08 · Sourced from ASPCA & Merck Veterinary Manual
The short answer
Yes — dogs can safely eat honey. small amounts Natural sweetener made by bees.
Why it's okay
Pure honey is safe in moderation. May help with seasonal allergies (anecdotal).
How much honey can a dog eat?
½ tsp small dog, 1 tsp large dog. Occasional only.
What every dog owner should know
- NEVER for puppies under 1 year (botulism risk)
- Skip if diabetic
- Raw local honey is best
How much honey can dogs have?
Treats — including honey — should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. Use these portion sizes as a starting point and adjust for your dog's activity level and overall diet.
| Dog size | Recommended amount |
|---|---|
| Toy (under 10 lb) | 1 teaspoon-sized piece, 1-2× per week |
| Small (10-25 lb) | 1 tablespoon-sized piece, 2-3× per week |
| Medium (25-50 lb) | 2 tablespoons or 1 small slice, 2-3× per week |
| Large (50-90 lb) | 1/4 cup or 2 small slices, 3× per week |
| Giant (over 90 lb) | 1/3 cup or 3 small slices, 3× per week |
These are general guidelines — always consult your veterinarian for portion recommendations specific to your pet's health, weight, and existing diet.
Puppy safety
Honey is generally safe for healthy puppies once they're fully weaned (around 8 weeks). Start with very small amounts — about 1/4 of the adult portion — and watch for any digestive upset over 24 hours before offering more. Never replace dog food with treats; growing animals need their balanced nutrition first.
What to do if your dog ate honey
Honey is generally safe in moderation. If your dog ate too much, you may see mild stomach upset (gas, soft stool) — usually resolves on its own within 24 hours. Contact your vet if you see vomiting, lethargy, or symptoms lasting more than a day.
See full emergency guideOther safe sweets for dogs
If your dog likes honey, they may also enjoy these safe options: