• Sugars, such as fructose and glucose
• Enzymes needed to accelerate chemical reactions within the body 
• Minerals like zinc, iron, manganese, phosphate, calcium, copper, sodium, magnesium, and potassium 
• Vitamins: B complex, C, D, E, and K
• Antioxidants, such as phenolic acids and flavonoids
• Pollen grains that can be helpful with environmental allergies 

Note:  Keep in mind that most supermarket honey products have been processed to include high fructose corn syrup or other low-quality ingredients. Processing honey in this manner—especially heating it—negates many of its health benefits, so stick with raw, local honey or Manuka honey to reap the maximum benefits.  

What canine conditions can be treated with honey?

Using honey in conjunction with prescribed medications from your vet can prove to beneficial:

Allergies — One of the most common medical conditions to affect dogs, allergies can be frustrating to treat. A multimodal approach employing several different tactics is often necessary to combat this condition. In addition to medications, prescriptions diets, and environmental modification, some holistic veterinarians may also add honey to the treatment protocol. The effectiveness of honey lies within the pollen collected by bees from different native flowers. Anecdotally, daily dosing of raw, local wildflower honey may help desensitize your dog’s immune system to environmental allergens, improving allergy symptoms.

Wound care — A variety of wounds, including minor burns, infections, hot spots, and pressure sores, can benefit from the application of honey. Applying pure Manuka honey can fight bacterial infection, reduce inflammation, and help regrow healthy new skin.

Kennel cough — This contagious respiratory infection can be caused by several cough-inducing pathogens, some of which are bacterial in nature. Due to its antibacterial properties, doling out Manuka honey to combat infection and soothe the throat may be helpful.

Digestion — Digestive issues occur frequently in dogs. Fortunately, honey is a safe, natural product that may help combat gastrointestinal diseases, such as gastritis, colitis, irritable bowel disease, and bacterial overgrowth. Honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may aid traditional treatments in soothing your pet’s irritated digestive system, in addition to balancing out the natural gut bacterial flora.

Energy boost — The sugar content of honey can give sluggish pets an energy boost. The natural sugars in honey are broken down more slowly than processed sugars and can increase healthy levels of energy.

Mobility improvement —The anti-inflammatory qualities of honey can help older pets move around more easily. Stiff, arthritic joints may be a little less sore with a daily helping of Manuka honey.

Note:  Honey may appear to be a magical cure-all, but that is not the case! Often, it can be used in conjunction with appropriate veterinary treatment to provide the most effective care for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian before attempting to add honey to your dog’s treatment plan.

What are the negative side effects of using honey?

Diabetic dogs — Honey has a high glycemic index, and can raise blood sugar, so its use should be avoided in diabetic pets.

Puppies — Use of honey should be avoided in dogs less than one year old. Due to their immature gastrointestinal systems, puppies are more likely to fall ill from bacterial spores that can contaminate honey. Wait until your dog is an adult before adding honey to his diet. Even then, if your adult dog has a compromised immune system you’ll want to avoid feeding her honey.

Allergies to bees —Pets can develop an allergy to bee stings. Pets that are hypersensitive may have a reaction from simply ingesting honey.

Obese dogs — Honey should not be given to obese dogs given the high caloric value. So watch for weight gain in your dog and stop feeding them honey if they’re gaining weight.

Compromised Immune System – check with your vet if your pet has a compromised immune system as bacterial spores can contaminate the honey.