Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs
Category:HealthApple Cider Vinegar for Dogs:
A Natural Path Toward Health
Is Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs Safe?
Yes, apple cider vinegar (ACV) is safe for dogs as it is a natural remedy and a substitute for chemical-based products. Apple cider vinegar contains zero artificial ingredients, zero harsh chemicals and will cause virtually no adverse reactions in dogs.
According to Whole Dog Journal, apple cider vinegar is made from just apples and water. This makes it completely safe for dogs. In fact, the word safe is an understatement – apple cider vinegar for dogs is healthy and beneficial.
What does Apple Cider Vinegar do for Dogs?
Apple cider vinegar for dogs acts as a natural health booster. Apple cider vinegar is made of fermented apples. The result of the fermentation process is a substance that is full of iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
The health benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs are undeniable. From treating ear infections to preventing flea infestations, apple cider vinegar is a helpful tool for pet parents who want to avoid chemically based products that may cause a dog more harm than good.
Does Apple Cider Vinegar Help With Dog’s Itchy Skin? Yes, apple cider vinegar for dogs can help with itchy skin. Apple cider vinegar, ACV, can help soothe and relieve rashes and itchiness. Furthermore, apple cider vinegar for dogs has the ability to prevent yeast infections of the skin.
Apple cider vinegar for dogs contains naturally-occurring acids that help eliminate dead skin cells (or dandruff) and expose new, healthy ones. This feature is beneficial for dogs prone to manage.
Additionally, holistic veterinarians advise pet owners to use apple cider vinegar for hot spots. The ACV can help dry them out and eliminate the need to shave the dog.
Animal Med Center says that mixing a 50/50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle and then applying the mixture to their dog’s coat does wonder for itchy, scaly, and dry skin.
However, during topical ACV use, it is important to avoid applying it on open wounds as the acidity will damage the raw skin. If using ACV topically is not possible, pet parents can add it to the pet’s food or water.
What are the Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs?
The benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs range from preventing flea infestations to acting as an ear cleanser to fighting infections. Let’s take a look at the health-boosting effects of apple cider vinegar for dogs.
ACV: A Natural Flea Killer.
Apple cider vinegar is a natural flea and tick repellent. These pests exist everywhere and in all climates. ACV acidified the dog’s pH levels, thus making the dog unappealing to fleas.
Spraying a dog with a 50/50 solution of ACV and water before they go outside is an effective way to prevent fleas and ticks from infesting the dog’s fur. Alternatively, dog owners can add two tablespoons of ACV to their pet’s food or water.
ACV: A Natural Ear Cleaner.
Itchy skin is usually accompanied by itchy ears. Because of its powerful antibacterial properties, ACV is an effective way to keep a dog’s ears clean and free of yeast and harmful bacteria.
Holistic vets suggest using half ACV and half purified water to prevent ear infections from developing. First, check the dog’s ears regularly for wax and gunk. Clean out anything that shouldn’t be there by using individual cotton balls soaked in the solution.
Coat Treatments and Tear Staining.
Even if a dog doesn’t suffer from skin irritation, ACV can still be a good tool for bringing life back to dull coats.
Additionally, apple cider vinegar can be used to remove tear stains and brown saliva-stained fur. ACV is also helpful for reducing dander and gives the dog’s coat an extra shine.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Digestion.
If a dog suffers from digestion issues such as diarrhea or constipation, adding ACV to their drinking water once a day can help.
The healthy enzymes in apple cider vinegar have also been shown to help reduce gas and bloating. Another good news is that ACV may help with weight loss in dogs.
Fighting Infection.
Apple cider vinegar has natural antibiotic and antiseptic properties that prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from invading the dog’s body.
Apple cider vinegar is one of the best home remedies for supporting the dog’s immunity in a natural way and preventing potentially dangerous infections.
ACV for Muscle Sprains and Bruises.
When applied topically, apple cider vinegar can ease pain caused by sore muscles and bruises.
Pet parents can apply a 50/50 concoction of ACV and water directly over the sore site with a cotton ball. The application can be repeated several times per day.
Used topically, pet parents can help ease their pet’s sore muscles, bruises, and other injuries. By using a cotton ball, apply a 50/50 concoction of ACV and water to the dog’s body. Reapply as necessary.
Easing Arthritis and Joint Discomfort.
ACV can help reduce joint inflammation and help dogs with arthritis. Arthritis is a common health problem in dogs, especially seniors.
Adding apple cider vinegar to a senior dog’s food twice a week can help break down calcium deposits found around the joints and thus help ease stiffness, pain, and discomfort.
Promoting Dental Health.
There are reports about apple cider vinegar being helpful in the prevention of tooth decay. The acetic acid in ACV breaks down plaque and removes tartar from the dog’s teeth.
To improve the dog’s oral health, dog owners can add one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the dog’s food or drinking water.
Healing and Preventing UTIs.
ACV has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that make it effective at preventing and treating infections. This is beneficial for dogs prone to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
The acidity of apple cider vinegar helps to neutralize the dog’s pH levels and is useful for both relieving current infections and preventing new ones from developing.
How Much Apple Cider Vinegar can I Give My Dog?
The recommended dosage of apple cider vinegar for dogs is between 5 and 10 milliliters per day. The exact dosage depends on the dog’s body weight.
Generally speaking, small to medium dogs need around 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon) of ACV, while medium to large dogs can be given up to 10 milliliters (1 tablespoon).
As with any other natural remedy, it is advisable to start small – give your dog a lower amount of apple cider vinegar and gradually increase the dose as it gets adjusted to the remedy.
Can I Put Apple Cider Vinegar in My Dog’s Food?
Yes, mixing apple cider vinegar with a dog’s diet may help them ingest it easier. The apple cider vinegar has a strong smell that the food will help mask.
Also, some dogs have more sensitive stomachs that can get irritated by ACV. Mixing apple cider vinegar with food will make the addition easy on the stomach and less likely to cause irritation.
What are the Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs?
The side effects of apple cider vinegar for dogs include irritation of the digestive tract, eyes, and skin. Such issues occur when ACV is used in high amounts and too often.
If using ACV topically, when bathing, it is important to rinse the mixture well. If there are apple cider vinegar residues in the coat, they will cause skin irritation.
On the other hand, when used internally, ACV can cause dehydration. To prevent this adverse effect, pet parents need to make sure the dog’s water bowl is always full.
What is the Best Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs?
The best apple cider vinegar for dogs is organic. Organic and unpasteurized ACV is clear and looks similar to apple juice. It may contain stringy materials floating around.
Commercially produced apple cider vinegar may be easily found in the grocery store, but it is not a pure ACV – it is processed and highly refined.
