Can Dogs Eat Manuka Honey? Safety and Benefits Explained

Can Dogs Have Manuka Honey? Here’s the Truth

If you’ve ever wondered whether some of the good things you’re using for your own health — like Manuka honey — could also benefit your dog, you’re not alone. It’s a question we hear often, and it’s a good one.

We get asked this one a lot:
“Can dogs have Manuka honey?”

The short answer? Yes, they can — in small amounts and with the right precautions.

Here’s what you need to know.

Is Manuka Honey Safe for Dogs?

For most healthy adult dogs, a small amount of high-quality, raw Manuka honey is safe. In fact, it may even offer some health benefits — just like it does for humans.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind (we’ll cover those below).

Potential Benefits of Manuka Honey for Dogs

While research is still growing, many dog owners and holistic vets use Manuka honey to support:

Minor skin issues and hotspots (when applied topically)
Sore throats or coughs in older dogs
Mild digestive support
Environmental allergy symptoms

Because Manuka honey contains naturally occurring antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s sometimes used as a gentle support tool in a broader care routine.

How Much Is Safe?

For most dogs, a small amount goes a long way. Here's a general guide:

Dog Weight	Max Daily Amount
Under 10kg	¼ teaspoon
10–25kg	½ teaspoon
Over 25kg	1 teaspoon

It’s best mixed into food and introduced gradually. If your dog has diabetes, is overweight, or has an existing health condition, always check with your vet first.

And don’t give Manuka honey to puppies under 12 months — their digestive systems are still developing.

What Type of Manuka Honey Is Best for Dogs?

For canine use, choose a mild-to-moderate MGO level — nothing too intense.

We recommend:

MGO 100+ – 8.8oz Jar — perfect for general wellness and safe daily use
MGO 400+ – 8.8oz Jar — higher strength, suitable for topical use or more targeted support

Like all our jars, they’re raw, unblended, and 100% New Zealand origin, with QR code traceability and independent lab testing.

Can You Apply It to Skin?

Yes — and many do. Manuka honey can be applied directly to:

Minor cuts or scrapes
Dry patches
Hot spots or irritated skin

Just be sure to gently clean the area first, and cover it if needed (to stop your dog licking it off). If symptoms persist, check in with your vet.

Final Thoughts

Manuka honey can be a gentle, natural way to support your dog’s health — when used in moderation and with the right product.

Whether you’re adding a spoon to their dinner or dabbing it on a scratch, just make sure you’re using real, tested, high-quality honey — and always run new routines past your vet if you’re unsure.