Is honey allowed for dogs or is it toxic?
Honey, honey! Whether in tea, on bread, or as a natural remedy for a cold: honey has been a staple in households for thousands of years and is commonly known as the "food of the gods" - which raises the question of whether this creamy treat is also allowed for dogs. After all, there are snacks for us humans that are →toxic to our four-legged friends. So what about honey, can I feed some to my dog? Yes, dogs can eat honey, but due to its high calorie and sugar content, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Why is honey healthy for dogs?
In the right amount, honey can bring some benefits for your four-legged friend. It contains anti-inflammatory enzymes and plenty of antioxidants that are said to support and protect the immune system. Honey can also provide supportive contributions for coughs, wounds, and digestive problems. However, it has not been fully scientifically proven that every type of honey actually has healing properties. A closer look at the different types of honey is important.
How do I feed honey to my dog?
Honey has a very high sugar and calorie content and should only be fed in minimal amounts. A cold or other illness can be a reason to occasionally mix a half teaspoon of honey into your dog's food or let them lick a drop off your finger. This sweet indulgence should not regularly end up in the bowl, as it can lead to →damage to the teeth and →overweight.
[TRANSLATION ERROR] Insbesondere Vierbeiner, die zu etwas mehr Hüftgold neigen, können durch zu viel Honig schnell Gewicht ansetzen. Ist dein Vierbeiner ohnehin etwas mollig, setze lieber auf eine kalorienarme Belohnung in Form von Gemüse!
But if you really want to show your dog some love with a very special snack, opt for our →creamy liver pâté and ensure a species-appropriate treat!
Give love with our tasty snacks
Honey for puppies: Why young dogs should not eat honey
You may have heard the rule that infants and babies should not eat honey. The reason is the potentially present bacterium Clostridium botulinum, for which a young body in growth does not yet have sufficient defense and which can be transmitted through honey. The same applies to a →weakened senior whose immune system is not functioning properly. However, for adult, healthy dogs, this is not a problem.
Especially if your clumsy puppy is still growing, he needs healthy food that provides him with enough proteins and nutrients. There is no room for experiments in →species-appropriate puppy nutrition - only fresh meat, crunchy fruits and vegetables, easily digestible herbs, and rich oils should go into the bowl!
Gesund ab dem ersten Tag: Unser Juniorfutter für deinen Welpen
Which honey is suitable for dogs?
To take advantage of the benefits of honey for your furry friend, you should not opt for the cheapest supermarket honey. A trip to the beekeeper or organic store is worthwhile, and you should keep an eye out for the so-called Manuka honey, which comes from Australia and New Zealand. Its antibacterial properties are particularly well-developed, and a reduction of pathogens has also been demonstrated in the lab for various infections.
Your four-legged friend will surely appreciate a drop of this delicious treat on special occasions. However, we recommend that you focus on high-quality food and species-appropriate snacks within the framework of →healthy dog nutrition, as they provide your furry friend with everything they need. A bite of →carrots, →broccoli, →celery, or →pumpkin when properly prepared is also ideal for your dog, is low in fat and provides healthy vitamins!
