Apple cider vinegar has recently grown in popularity as another popular food trend in the world of organic and healthy eating. Since you probably have a bottle of apple cider vinegar (ACV) laying around your kitchen, you might be wondering if there are any ways to incorporate it into Fido’s diet or if it is even safe for a dog to consume since it is so versatile.
In short, yes, this vinegar is safe for your dog, but that doesn’t mean it won’t have some negative effects. We already know that apples are a healthy and wonderful snack for our dogs, so is it the same for ACV?
Apple Cider Vinegar For Dogs’ Ears
Itchy ears frequently accompany itchy skin, and nobody wants that. However, the answer is typically no when it comes to regularly cleaning your dog’s ears.
It’s best to leave your dog’s ears alone if you notice wax or gunk in them. Let the body do its work, and the gunky ears will frequently clear up on their own, as dirty ears are typically a sign your dog is detoxing something from the inside.
However, if your dog is scratchy and uncomfortable, you must intervene. If so, you can use a solution of half ACV and half purified water to remove gunk from your ears.
It’s crucial to only wipe the ear’s visible components. You don’t want to harm your dog’s ears because they have delicate internal structures. So ….
Apple Cider Vinegar For Fleas On Dogs
Even the cleanest, healthiest dog could end up hosting these pests. Fortunately, ACV can once again come to the rescue.
Spray your dog with a 50/50 mixture of water and ACV before letting her outside.
Additionally, during the flea and tick season, add ACV to your dog’s food or water for some extra oomph. Add up to 1 Tbsp for a 50 lb dog. If your dog doesn’t like the taste, you might want to start with less. Your dog will be less appealing to ticks and fleas thanks to the acidity.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Dog
For the greatest health benefits, use organic apple cider vinegar with the “mother.” The yeast and bacteria created during fermentation are referred to as the mother. This kind of apple cider vinegar is unheated, unpasteurized, and raw, and it contains the enzymes and living substances that are good for dogs’ health. If the “mother” is present in that product, the label will make that clear.
Different versions of apple cider vinegar are available, from the common liquid to homemade topical sprays, wipes, and pill form. But the best forms of apple cider vinegar for dogs are to use the liquid variety or home-made sprays. Numerous human wipes and capsules might include additional components that are toxic to dogs, like xylitol. Additionally, the “mother” version is more advantageous than some capsules that don’t contain live enzymes.
FAQ
What does apple cider vinegar do to dogs?
ACV works as an ear cleaner, a flea and tick repellent, and can soothe your dog’s itching. ACV can help your dog internally as well. ACV can help regulate blood sugar levels. It’s great for your dog’s heart health and can help stop the spread of harmful bacteria.
Do vets recommend apple cider vinegar?
ACV has not been scientifically proven to be beneficial for dogs, and it may even be harmful in some circumstances, warns Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, a veterinarian at Senior Tail Waggers, despite the fact that it has been rumored to treat a variety of ailments.
Will apple cider vinegar hurt dogs if ingested?
Although consuming a small amount of it diluted may not be harmful, the acidity is unhealthy for some dogs and can cause gastric issues.