Apple cider vinegar (often abbreviated ACV) is a type of vinegar made from fermented apple juice. When the sugars in apples undergo the fermentation process, it creates acetic acid — the primary compound in vinegar. It’s then combined with a bacteria known as the “mother.” The mother gives ACV a cloudy appearance and is sometimes removed before being bottled and sold in stores. People use unfiltered apple cider vinegar for everything from acid reflux relief to eczema treatment, and many believe that it provides health benefits for dogs too.
ACV is often praised by pet owners for its potential benefits in dog care, despite the absence of definitive scientific backing. Many pet parents use it to help soothe itchy skin, repel insects, and treat infections.
👉 Never use apple cider vinegar on broken skin or open wounds such as scrapes, cuts, or scabs.
The use of apple cider vinegar topically on dogs is surrounded by both anecdotal claims and scientific curiosity. While there is no concrete scientific evidence to fully support the use of ACV for canine skin issues, many pet parents continue to rely on it for managing itchiness and repelling fleas, suggesting there may be some validity to its effectiveness in these areas.
Specifically, ACV’s reputation for treating yeast infections stems from studies conducted in controlled environments, though caution is advised when applying it to dogs with compromised immune systems or broken skin. As always, consulting with a veterinarian before using home remedies is recommended to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet.
Because of its microbial properties, ACV has a reputation for being a useful cleaning agent. Pet parents can mix 1 part distilled apple cider vinegar with 3 parts water and use it as a pre-wash spray on bedding or as a pet spot stain remover on carpets. However, it’s important to note that ACV’s effectiveness is significantly reduced when diluted. While it can help eliminate bacteria and odors, its impact on soft surfaces like bedding may not be as strong as on hard surfaces.
At least one scientific study (Trusted Source) supports the cleaning power of acetic acid, the primary active ingredient in ACV. Notably, its effectiveness is significantly greater when undiluted and at concentrations of at least 10%, or what might be considered “industrial strength.” It becomes even more effective when combined with citric acid (Trusted Source) .
Both industrial vinegar and citric acid cleaners are available online and in most home goods stores, like Home Depot. As always, understanding the proper usage and limitations of these products is essential for achieving the best results.
Vinegar, especially apple cider vinegar, is getting a lot of buzz for its possible benefits in managing diabetes, (Trusted Source) ,thanks to studies in humans. It might help improve insulin sensitivity and control blood sugar spikes after meals in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. However, these studies haven’t been done in dogs, and while dogs and humans share some biology, results can differ between species and even from one dog to another. So, it’s crucial to rely on a veterinarian’s advice rather than trying home treatments for your dog’s diabetes. Always prioritize professional guidance to keep your furry friend safe and healthy.
As we mentioned, all potential benefits of using ACV for dogs are anecdotal. Pet parents should be aware of potential risks before deciding how and when to use apple cider vinegar for their pups.
While apple cider vinegar is relatively safe to use on the outside of your dog’s ears, it may cause problems if used inside the ear. Never use ACV to flush your dog’s ears, as this can cause vestibular syndrome. (Trusted Source) Take your dog to the vet when they may be suffering from an ear infection, and do your best to keep their ears clean and dry. We recommend using an ear cleaner made specifically for dogs or whichever cleaner your vet recommends.
ACV can potentially interfere with various medications. For example, it may interact with diuretics and medications for diabetes and heart problems. There are numerous other potential interactions, which is why seeking professional advice is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of your furry friend. Always prioritize working with your vet to navigate your pet’s health needs.
Apple cider vinegar is quite acidic, with a pH balance between 2 and 3, where 1 is the most acidic and 7 is neutral. Some dogs experience GI upset after ingesting ACV, leading to diarrhea or vomiting. In cases of vomiting, the acidity of ACV can also cause a burning sensation in your dog’s esophagus.
Some sources suggest that consuming large amounts of ACV might lower potassium and calcium levels in humans, which can lead to other issues. However, this hasn’t been specifically studied in dogs. More research is needed to confirm that these same issues could happen with dogs too, but keep the potential risk in mind if you’re considering using ACV.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular, budget-friendly choice for many pet parents. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks, which make it less ideal for treating some conditions at home. For the best care, it’s always a good idea to chat with your vet to ensure your furry friend’s safety and well-being.
ACV can be considered safe for dogs, but only when diluted and used in small doses. Generally, topical use should be a 50/50 mix with water, and make sure to mix well with drinking water or food for dietary uses. Follow the recommended oral dosage based on your pup’s weight.
Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to apple cider vinegar, so it’s important to watch for signs of irritation on their skin. A sudden intake of the acidic ACV can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestion problems. ACV can also interfere with certain medications, like those used to treat diabetes in dogs. When taken internally, start with small amounts and monitor your dog for signs that they can’t tolerate it.
The kind of ACV you buy really depends on the intended usage. When buying apple cider vinegar for yourself or your dog, it’s best to look for raw, organic, and undiluted apple cider vinegar with the mother included. For cleaning, industrial vinegar and citric acid are better options.
ACV dosage should be based on the recommendations of a vet. It’s not advisable to guesstimate this on your own.
