My Dog Was Stung by a Bee – What Should I Do?

Dogs are naturally curious, especially when they’re romping around in the backyard or exploring new places. But sometimes that curiosity leads to an unexpected sting. If your dog was stung by a bee, you may feel alarmed—especially if this is a first-time experience. While most stings are harmless, some dogs can have stronger reactions than others. Knowing what to watch for and how to respond can make all the difference in your dog’s comfort and safety. Below, we’ll discuss the most common symptoms, when a bee sting may require veterinary care, and how Animal Family Veterinary Care Center in Davenport, Iowa can help.

Common Signs Your Dog Was Stung by a Bee

If your dog was stung by a bee, you might not witness the sting itself—but the signs can show up quickly. Dogs may yelp, paw at their face, limp, or start licking a specific area more than usual. Swelling at the site of the sting is one of the most visible symptoms, especially if the sting occurred on the muzzle, paw, or inside the mouth. These areas are more sensitive and tend to react faster.

Other signs can include localized redness, hives, or discomfort when touched. Some dogs may become agitated or anxious after being stung. If your pet is suddenly restless or showing signs of pain, they may have had a run-in with a bee. The location of the sting and the dog’s sensitivity can influence the intensity of the symptoms.

Facial Stings Can Be More Concerning

A sting on the face—especially near the eyes, nose, or mouth—should be monitored closely. Swelling in this area can sometimes interfere with breathing or cause significant discomfort. While not always an emergency, these types of stings warrant a call to your veterinarian to discuss next steps and determine if your dog should be seen.

When a Bee Sting Becomes an Emergency

In most cases, a dog stung by a bee will show mild symptoms that resolve on their own. However, some dogs may have allergic reactions that require immediate attention. Signs of a serious reaction include difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, or collapsing. These symptoms could point to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic response. This type of reaction can happen within minutes and is considered a medical emergency. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, call us immediately at (563) 391-9522 or seek emergency veterinary care.

Multiple Stings Raise the Risk

Another situation that requires quick action is if your dog is stung multiple times. Dogs that disturb a hive or encounter a swarm may suffer more than one sting, which can increase the chance of a stronger reaction. Even if your dog seems fine at first, multiple bee stings should be evaluated by your vet as a precaution.

Where Dogs Are Most Likely to Get Stung

Dogs are often stung on the paws, face, and inside the mouth. Curious pups may swat at or try to eat a buzzing bee, leading to a sting inside their lips or even on the tongue. If your dog suddenly starts drooling, pawing at their mouth, or refusing food after being outdoors, it’s worth considering the possibility of a sting. Outdoor areas with flowering plants, gardens, or beehives naturally attract bees. Dogs who spend time in these environments—especially in the spring and summer—are more likely to encounter bees. If you suspect your dog was stung and they’re showing any signs of swelling or distress, contact our team at Animal Family Veterinary Care Center to determine if an appointment is needed.

Tips for Preventing Bee Stings in Dogs

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, there are ways to lower your dog’s chance of getting stung.

• Keep your yard free of open trash containers and sugary spills, which can attract bees.
• Be cautious during walks near gardens or wildflower areas, and watch your dog closely if they tend to chase insects.
• If your dog is prone to chasing or snapping at bees, redirect their attention with toys or treats when you see a bee nearby. Some dogs never seem to learn from the experience, so managing their exposure is key to avoiding repeat stings.
• If you have flowering plants or fruit trees in your yard, monitor the area for signs of heavy bee activity.
• Keeping your pet indoors during peak bee hours—usually mid-morning to late afternoon—can also help reduce the risk.

Talk to your vet if your dog has been stung more than once in the past, as they may recommend having a plan in place in case of future stings.

What Your Vet Will Look for If Your Dog Was Stung by a Bee

If your dog needs veterinary care after being stung by a bee, your vet will evaluate the sting site, check your dog’s vital signs, and ask about their behavior since the incident. If your dog is experiencing swelling or mild discomfort, your vet may recommend supportive care to help them feel more comfortable. If the reaction is more serious, your veterinarian may provide antihistamines or other treatments to manage symptoms. In cases involving multiple stings or allergic reactions, more intensive care may be necessary. The team at Animal Family Veterinary Care Center is well-equipped to evaluate and treat your dog quickly and safely.

Follow-Up Monitoring After a Bee Sting

Even after a vet visit, it’s important to monitor your dog for the next 24 hours. In some cases, delayed allergic responses may occur. If new symptoms develop or if existing ones worsen, reach out to your veterinary team right away.

The Importance of Calling Your Vet First

It’s natural to want to help your dog feel better after a sting, but it’s best to avoid giving over-the-counter medications or trying home remedies without professional guidance. Medications that are safe for humans may not be safe for pets, and some can cause harmful side effects. Calling your vet before taking action ensures your dog gets the most appropriate care. At Animal Family Veterinary Care Center, we encourage Davenport pet owners to call us at (563) 391-9522 or request an appointment online if their dog was stung by a bee. Even if the symptoms seem mild, we’re happy to discuss your concerns and help you decide whether an exam is needed.