Apple cider vinegar for dogs is effective in helping to treat various dog health problems. Apple cider vinegar has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and detoxifying properties. It is good for the skin, for the joints, for digestion, and more. The health benefits of ACV for dogs are amazing.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made by the fermentation of apple cider. Fermentation is a process in which sugars in a food are broken down by bacteria and yeast. In the first stage of fermentation, the sugars in the apple cider are turned into alcohol. Then, if the alcohol ferments further, you get vinegar.
The main ingredient of apple cider vinegar is acetic acid, as well as some lactic, citric and malic acids. Many people believe that ACV is rich in vitamins, minerals, and more. However, according to the USDA, ACV is rich in potassium but does not contain all the other nutrients that many sources claim it does.
While on its own, ACV may not be as full of nutrients as many people think, when combined with foods that are nutrient-rich, ACV helps the body assimilate such nutrients. Thus, ACV is an important digestive aid, both for people and dogs.
The color of ACV is light yellow-brown. It is often sold unfiltered and unpasteurized with the “mother” which is a dark, cloudy sediment settled at the bottom of the bottle.
Over the years, apple cider vinegar has gained popularity and attention as it has been found to have a lot of health benefits for people. Recently, it has been found that the benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs are great as well.
What are the Benefits of ACV for Dogs?
- ACV is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiseptic. It helps prevent bacterial and viral growth in the digestive tract. In addition, it does not upset the balance of the friendly bacteria inside the GI tract. As a result, apple cider vinegar boosts the immune system. It improves stamina, increases resistance to diseases, prevents common infections, and is therefore helpful for dogs with weakened immune systems.
- ACV normalizes the blood’s acid alkaline balance and its potassium-rich ingredients remineralize the body. ACV breaks down calcium deposits in a dog’s joints and remineralizes the bones, and as such it is beneficial for dogs with arthritis and joint problems such as hip dysplasia.
- Another benefit of apple cider vinegar for dogs is its effect on a dog’s skin and coat due to ACV’s detoxifying properties. Dogs with itchy skin caused by allergies (e.g. seasonal allergies, flea allergies) can get almost instant relief if ACV is used as an after-shampoo rinse.
- Because ACV is rich in potassium, it is beneficial for dogs with diuretic or heart problems.
- Apple cider vinegar also balances digestive enyzymes in the body, so it is a good remedy for food poisoning and digestive upsets such as intestinal gas and constipation. It also reduces fecal odors.
- Other benefits of ACV include the prevention of bladder stones, kidney infections, and urinary tract infections.
What Are Some Common Uses of ACV on Dogs?
Apple cider vinegar can be used in various ways to treat dog health problems. Some common uses include:
Use ACV as a general detoxifier and a mild tonic. Long term use of ACV will make your dog more resistant to infections, as well as flea or worm infestations.
Start by adding small amounts of ACV to your dog’s drinking water and slowly building up to about 1 teaspoon of ACV per 15 pounds of body weight. Some dogs may not like the taste of vinegar in their water. If that’s the case for your dog, mix ACV with his food, or mix it with a teaspoonful of raw honey.
Within one month or so, you can see whether ACV actually is actually helping your dog. Many dog parents have reported improvements in their dog’s health conditions, such as better skin conditions (less scratching and odor), reduced flea population, fewer or total elimination of tear stains on the face, and less painful joints (in older dogs).
Use ACV as an after-shampoo rinse if your dog has skin problems such as allergies, fleas, or ringworm.
To make the vinegar rinse: Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a quart of water. Use it once a week as an after-shampoo rinse. Remember not to rinse off the ACV – just towel your dog dry.
You can also use ACV as a foot soak for dogs with itchy paws due to seasonal allergies (e.g. pollen). Dilute 1 cup of ACV with 1-2 cups of water and let your dog soak his paws in the mixture. This can greatly reduce the itching.
If your dog has dandruff, try massaging full-strength ACV into his hair coat before shampooing.
For minor skin irritations, such as sunburn, calluses, abrasions, you can simply apply full-strength ACV to the affected area(s).
You can also prepare a spray by simply using 50% apple cider vinegar and 50% water. Use a spray bottle and spray your dog’s coat after his daily walks (avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth), and you can use it to spray his bedding as well.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs – Which ACV?
Not all vinegars have the same benefits. Do not use a vinegar that is clear such as wine vinegar, sushi vinegar, etc. that can be found in most supermarkets. These types of vinegar are “dead” because they do not contain any enzymes and other live factors as found in unpasteurized ACV.
The best ACV is one that is raw, unpasteurized, unheated, and organic. You can find organic ACV in health food stores.
We highly recommend Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar which can be bought in (well-known) local supermarkets.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs – Is it Safe for Dogs?
Apple cider vinegar, when used in appropriate amount, is safe for dogs with one exception – Dogs with a chronic yeast infection (Candida) or those with an overly acidic system or irritated intestines are not recommended. Vinegar is believed to reactivate or worsen these conditions.
Other precautions when using ACV on your dog:
- Never give undiluted ACV to your dog.
- When using it as a rinse, take care not to let it get into your dog’s eyes.
- Also, do not use ACV on open wounds such as cuts or scratches as it will burn.
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It has been a long standing question and debate whether or not garlic is beneficial or dangerous for dogs. The plain and simple answer to that is that it can be one or the other, depending on the quantity that is given to them. Many studies have proven that garlic possess great benefits not only for dogs, but humans as well — regulating good blood circulation and chemistry, allowing us to live healthier and more energetic lives.
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