Usually OK: watch for signs
Most dogs that eat or are stung by a bee have only mild swelling and pain. Watch closely for an allergic reaction for the next few hours. Go to an emergency vet if your dog has facial swelling that spreads, trouble breathing, vomiting, pale gums or weakness.
What to do right now
- Look for a stinger (a small black sac) and scrape it away sideways with a card. Do not squeeze it with tweezers.
- Apply a cold compress to swelling for 10 minutes.
- Watch your dog closely for at least 1-2 hours, and for 24 hours for delayed swelling.
- Ask your vet whether an antihistamine is appropriate and at what dose before giving one.
Why bee can be dangerous for dogs
Bee venom causes pain and local swelling. A sting in the mouth or throat can swell enough to affect breathing, and some dogs have an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that can be life-threatening. Multiple stings, such as from a disturbed nest, are more dangerous.
Symptoms to watch for
- Swelling of the face, lips or eyes (usually mild)
- Pawing at the mouth or drooling
- Hives (bumps) on the body
- Emergency signs: trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, weakness or collapse
What not to do
- Do not squeeze the stinger.
- Do not rely on Benadryl if your dog has trouble breathing or collapses: go to a vet immediately.
What the vet will do
For a mild reaction, a vet may give an antihistamine and sometimes a steroid. Anaphylaxis is treated with epinephrine, IV fluids and oxygen.
Related guides
Dog ate bee: FAQ
Can I give my dog Benadryl for a bee sting?
Vets often recommend diphenhydramine for mild swelling. The usual dose is about 1 mg per lb, but check with your vet first and make sure the product contains only diphenhydramine.
How long does bee sting swelling last in dogs?
Usually 12-24 hours. Swelling that keeps spreading or affects breathing needs a vet.
Other "my dog ate…" guides
- Chicken BoneCall your vet
- GumEmergency
- Grapes or RaisinsEmergency
- Corn CobCall your vet
- Silica Gel PacketWatch closely
- Rat PoisonEmergency
- IbuprofenEmergency
- TylenolCall your vet
- SockCall your vet
- Cat PoopWatch closely
- Raw ChickenWatch closely
- WeedCall your vet
Sources
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Every pet is different: when in doubt, call your vet or an animal poison control line.