What to Do if Your Dog Gets Stung

We've all seen pictures of dogs that have been stung by bees — but bee and wasp stings can be just as painful and serious for your pet as they are for you. Here's how to prevent stings and what to do if your dog gets stung.

How to Prevent Bee, Wasp and Hornet Stings

The best way to treat bee stings is to prevent them. Bees, wasps, and hornets sting out of instinct when they feel threatened — rarely unprovoked. Avoid startling stinging insects by:

• Keeping a Close Eye on Your Dog: Most dogs get stung on their muzzle from investigating a stinging insect too closely. Stay alert when out in nature, and deal with any bees or wasps in your home immediately. When outdoors, keep your dog on a leash — see our summer walking tips for more outdoor safety advice.
• Staying Out of Buzzing Flowerbeds: During spring and summer, avoid areas where bees and wasps hover, especially during walks or hikes.
• Being Proactive: Wasp nests grow quickly. Check your yard regularly and remove developing nests before they get out of hand. Keep your pet indoors during removal.
• Consulting Professionals: If you're unsure how to handle a nest, call a professional exterminator. For beehives, contact a local beekeeper to safely rehome the bees.

What to Do if Your Dog Gets Stung

Bee stings can be life-threatening if your dog is allergic. If you suspect a sting, monitor your dog closely for a couple of hours and look for swelling around the muzzle or paws.

Tip: If your dog eats a stinging insect and gets stung inside the mouth or throat, seek veterinary help immediately — swelling could block their airway.

Symptoms of an Allergic Reaction

Contact your vet or emergency vet right away if you notice:

• Unusual weakness or lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Extreme swelling

Do Not Give Pets Human Medication

Ibuprofen, Benadryl, or an EpiPen can cause serious harm to your dog. Never give human medication without veterinary guidance — dosage is especially difficult to regulate in small dogs.

Beware Multiple Stings

A single sting may be an inconvenience, but multiple stings from bees, wasps, or hornets can cause a medical emergency. Visit a vet immediately if your dog is stung multiple times.

Bees vs. Wasps

Bees have a barbed stinger that detaches after one sting, so your dog is unlikely to be stung more than once by a bee. Wasps can sting multiple times, making them potentially more dangerous. Knowing the difference helps you better protect your pup.

For more outdoor safety tips, read our guides on protecting your dog from the sun and protecting your dog from ticks.