PupkeeperCaution
Bee and wasp stings and dogs: what to do
Usually mild. Stings cause pain and swelling, but hives, face or throat swelling, or trouble breathing mean an allergic reaction: get to a vet.
What to do now
- Scrape out any stinger with the edge of a card.
- Hold a cold, damp cloth or a wrapped ice pack on the spot to ease swelling.
- Go to a vet right away if you see hives, face or throat swelling, trouble breathing or collapse.
- Call your vet if your dog was stung several times.
Don't
- Don't squeeze the stinger with tweezers or fingers; it can push in more venom.
- Don't give any human medicine unless a vet tells you to.
Signs to watch for
- Swelling at the sting
- Licking, biting or pawing at the spot
- Limping or holding up a paw
- Drooling
- Hives or a rash (allergic reaction)
- Fast swelling of the face or neck (allergic reaction)
- Trouble breathing or collapse (allergic reaction)
When signs appear: Allergic reactions usually within 20 minutes, but can be delayed for hours
Why
Bees leave their stinger in the skin; wasps don't but can sting more than once. Some dogs are allergic, and being stung several times needs a vet.
Sources
- PDSA: Insect Bites and Stings in Dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals: First Aid for Insect Stings in Dogs
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Minor Injuries and Accidents
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.