Apple cider vinegar, a simple product that is made primarily from fermented apples, has been used by humans for thousands of years to treat everything from acne to dandruff—ancient Greeks and Egyptians used it to clean wounds and even help with weight loss!
In today’s world, people continue to use apple cider vinegar (ACV) to manage many health conditions. As a pet parent, you may wonder if your dog can benefit from this product, too. Here are five ways apple cider can be helpful for dogs:
It Can Provide Itch Relief
Itchy dogs can feel pretty miserable. If your dog is feeling itchy, spray a solution of equal parts warm water and apple cider vinegar on his skin to soothe the itchiness. If his paws are itchy, spray the solution onto a cotton ball and dab his paws with the cotton ball.
Extremely itchy dogs can develop hot spots, which are areas of inflamed skin caused by excessive scratching. Spraying the ACV solution directly onto the hot spots can bring relief. However, if the skin is really inflamed, the ACV could cause more irritation. Check with your veterinarian before spraying apple cider vinegar onto severely inflamed hot spots.
It Can Be Used in Ear Care
ACV can be used as part of your dog’s normal ear cleaning routine. The vinegar prevents the growth of infection-causing microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. In turn, your dog’s ears will be less itchy. Dampen a cotton ball with the ACV solution and gently swab the cotton ball in your dog’s ears.
Be mindful that ear infections in dogs need to be treated with medication that is prescribed by a veterinarian, so if you suspect your dog has an ear infection or any type of ear injury, speak to your veterinarian.
It Aids in Digestion
In people, adding ACV to drinking water is believed to increase good bacteria in the stomach, which can help with digestion. Adding a few tablespoons to your dog’s food or water in the morning may help his digestion throughout the day and help his body absorb important nutrients after he eats.
It Can Improve Nutrition/Overall Health
ACV is packed with nutrients, including potassium, calcium, and vitamins B, C and E, so adding it to your dog’s food and water as described above may improve your dog’s nutrition.
In addition to helping with skin and ear problems, ACV can also help manage other health-related conditions, including high cholesterol, muscle cramps, urinary problems (e.g., bladder stones) and constipation. It should be noted, however, that apple cider vinegar cannot be used to treat these conditions and your pet should see a veterinarian if you suspect your dog has any of these issues.
It Can Control Dandruff
A smooth, shiny coat is an indication of good health in dogs. Spritzing the ACV solution on your dog as part of his normal grooming routine can help improve his coat quality. ACV may also help to control dandruff.
Despite these benefits, pet parents should not consider ACV as a “cure-all.” Dogs can develop serious medical problems that require medication and using ACV instead of these medications can put dogs at risk of more suffering or health problems. Always consult with your veterinarian first if you would like to incorporate ACV into your dog’s overall care.