Apple cider vinegar

What is apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar made from fermented apples. Apples are chopped up, mixed with water and sugar and mixed with yeast and vinegar bacteria. Fermentation produces alcohol, which is then oxidized to acetic acid. In addition to acetic acid, the finished apple cider vinegar also contains other organic acids, enzymes, minerals and vitamins.

How is apple cider vinegar used for dogs?

Apple cider vinegar can be used both internally and externally for dogs. You should always use naturally cloudy, unfiltered and unpasteurized organic apple cider vinegar that does not contain any additives or preservatives. You should also always dilute the apple cider vinegar as it may otherwise be too acidic for your dog.

Internal use

The internal use of apple cider vinegar can support your dog's digestion, metabolism and immune system. Apple cider vinegar can also help to regulate blood pH, improve the lipid profile in the blood and increase insulin sensitivity.

To give your dog apple cider vinegar internally, you can mix one teaspoon to one tablespoon a day into their food or drinking water, depending on their size. You should do this over a period of about four weeks. Make sure your dog drinks enough to relieve the kidneys.

External use

Applying apple cider vinegar externally can care for and protect your dog's coat and skin. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, decongestant and antioxidant properties. It can therefore help with various skin problems such as eczema, fungi, itching or insect bites.

To apply apple cider vinegar externally to your dog, you can spray or rub it with a mixture of one part apple cider vinegar and two parts water. You can do this daily or as needed. You can also put some apple cider vinegar on the brush or comb and brush your dog with it. This ensures a shiny coat and keeps parasites such as fleas and ticks away.

What are the benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs?

Apple cider vinegar has many benefits for dogs due to both its ingredients and its acidic effect. Here are some of them:

• It promotes the production of gastric juices and digestive enzymes, which improves digestion and prevents bloating or constipation.
• It fights harmful bacteria in the intestines and ensures a healthy intestinal environment.
• It increases the dog's appetite and helps it with food changes or a reluctance to eat.
• It lowers blood sugar levels and improves the dog's sensitivity to insulin, which can prevent or treat diabetes.
• It neutralizes the smell of the female dog in heat and makes her less attractive to males.
• It relieves inflammation, swelling and itching on the skin and promotes wound healing.
• It gives the coat shine and suppleness and prevents dandruff or hair loss.
• It protects the dog from parasites such as fleas, ticks or mites by worsening their living conditions.

What are the disadvantages of apple cider vinegar for dogs?

Apple cider vinegar also has some disadvantages for dogs that you should be aware of before using it. Here are some of them:

• It can attack the dog's tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay or gingivitis. Therefore, you should always dilute the apple cider vinegar and brush your dog's teeth after use or give him something to chew on.
• It can irritate the dog's stomach if it is too acidic or given too often. You should therefore adjust the dosage and offer your dog enough water.
• It can trigger allergic reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea or skin rashes if your dog is sensitive to it. Therefore, you should always be careful and test the tolerance.
• It can influence the effect of medication if administered at the same time. You should therefore always consult your vet before giving your dog apple cider vinegar.