R E S O U R C E S > A C V F O R D O G S

The Benefits of ACV For Dogs

Apple cider vinegar is highly beneficial for dogs and can be used for many different purposes. Everything from a healthy skin and coat to treating muscle sprains. Apple cider vinegar is made from apples and water, making it completely safe for dogs. 

Using ACV Internally for Dogs

Apple cider vinegar can be given to your dog internally to treat numerous conditions:

  • Arthritis

  • Digestive Problems

  • Diarrhea

  • Respiratory Infections

  • Allergies

  • Dull Coat

  • Dandruff

Apple Cider Vinegar Dosages

The dose of ACV you can give your dog will depend on what you are treating, the severity of their condition, as well as their weight.

  • Very small dogs: 5 to 10 drops

  • Small dogs: ¼ to 1 teaspoon

  • Medium dogs: ½ to 2 teaspoons

  • Large dogs: 1 to 2 Tablespoons

How Often You Should Use ACV for Dogs

If used for an acute infection or diarrhea, a dose of ACV can be given 2-4 times per day. As the infection clears, you can begin to decrease the dose. If you find that you are not seeing improvement, increase the frequency and amount of the doses.

If used as a tonic on a regular basis, the lowest dose given can be once a day. This would aid in helping with allergies, coat issues, flea prevention, and digestive support. ACV is slightly acidic, with a pH of 3.1 to 5, giving it the properties to soothe a dogs overly alkalized digestive tract. Add a teaspoon of ACV to your dog's water bowl to help with this.

ACV Remedy for Ear Issues in Dogs

If your dog is suffering a yeast infection of the ear, the best ear cleanser is apple cider vinegar. Make a mixture containing 50% ACV and 50% warm olive oil. Don’t use water as it feeds the yeast when not properly wiped out.

Ear Wash

If your dog prone to ear infections, keep your dogs ears clean by using apple cider vinegar. Use a dropper to put a few drops of ACV in each ear and gently massage the base of the ears. This will clean out the debris and the vinegar will maintain a healthy pH level in the ears.

ACV for Flea Prevention

Dilute 6 cups of apple cider vinegar with 4 cups of water and add a dash of sea salt. Mix well in a spray bottle and spray directly onto your dog's coat. Avoid the eye area.

Muscle Pains and Strains 

The anti-inflammatory properties of ACV helps reduce muscle pain and inflammation. The acids cooling effects also help soothe and relax the muscles. For sore muscles or muscle strain, apply a compress of ACV to the affected area for 15 minutes or so. Do it 2-3 times a day. If you want something stronger, try making a vinegar herbal liniment. Here is an example suggested by C.J. Puotinen ( author of Natural remedies for Dogs and Cats, and The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care): 

  • 2 cups ACV 

  • 1 teaspoon powdered cayenne pepper

  • 4 tablespoon dried rosemary( or 1/4 cup fresh)

  • 2 tablespoons dried comfrey leaf (1/8 cup of fresh )

Instructions:

  1. Combine the ACV and herbs in jar.

  2. Leave the sealed jar in a warm place for a month or longer. 

  3. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth.

  4. Shake well before using, and avoid using it near eyes and mucous membranes.

  5. Use this liniments to massage into bruises, sore muscles or joints, or make a compress by soaking a small clean washcloth in the liniment.

  6. Apply it to the affected area for as long as your dogs allows you.

Rinse for Skin Problems 

Use ACV as a after-shampoo rinse if your dog has skin problems such as allergies, fleas, or ringworm. To make the Vinegar rinse, add 2 tablespoon of ACV to a quart of water. Use it once a week as an after-shampoo rinse. Remember not to use water 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 hid hair coat before shampooing.