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My puppy got stung by a bee and has a lump. What should I do at home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 24 days old | 35 lbs

We think our puppy got stung by a bee. What should we do? He doesn't seem in pain and doesn't have symptoms other than a lump on his leg (see picture). The lump looked like it had a stinger puncture spot too. We tried a cold compress but he won't sit long enough for us to hold it. What should we do?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 10th, 2017

They do tend to swell varying amounts when they get stung by bees, but they don't tend to have severe complications, so I would not worry too much right now.

You can safely give one 50mg tablet of benadryl by mouth to help prevent allergic reactions. Just know that this will make him drowsy.

An allergic reaction normally happens within the first couple of hours, so if he's doing OK by the end of the day, then he should be fine. If he starts vomiting, you notice his face swell excessively, or he seems to have trouble breathing, then these would be signs of an allergic reaction that needs emergency vet treatment.

I hope that helps and Ardie turns-out OK.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Catherine Stecyk
Veterinarian
Published on September 23rd, 2019
Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. I'm sorry to hear that Chloe got stung by a bee! What you do will depend on how Chloe reacts to the bee sting. Some dogs have no problems at all! If she only develops a small pink bump, but is otherwise fine, there is nothing you need to do. If she seems to bother this bump, either by chewing it or licking at it, you may need to have her wear a cone collar to stop her from being able to lick at it. Some dogs react to bee stings by getting a swollen or puffy face. If you notice this, and/or if Chloe develops hives (raised round areas on the skin), you can give her Benadryl. The dose of Benadryl for dogs is 1 mg per 1 pound. So for example, if she weighs 10 pounds, she can get 10 mg. This may make her a little sleepy. I hope this information is helpful!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on August 10th, 2018
Sorry to hear about Nanook! I'm sure you are very worried. The k9st important thing is that he hasn't taken an anaphylactic reaction to the sting which would be an emergency and happens fairly quickly. Obviously he has swollen a little in response to it but aside from minor discomfortthis won't do him any harm as long as his airway is clear.
It sounds like you are taking great care of him and at this stage all the vet could really do would be administer a steroid injection to try and stop the allergic reaction.
He should be absolutely fine and the dwelling should settle over the next few days. Definitely still keep an eye on him though in case the swelling does get worse.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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