Apple Cider Vinegar (referred to as ACV In this article) has been a popular home remedy for generations as a first-aid treatment. ACV may be beneficial for topical applications, including muscle aches and bruises, windburn, abrasions, sunburn, insect bites, stings, and hair care.
Over the past few years, it has been discovered that it has as many benefits for our canine family as well. Frequently reported benefits include better mobility in older dogs, reduced flea populations, enhanced skin, and coat condition, less itching and scratching, the exclusion of tear stains on the face, fewer brown or yellow urine spots on lawns, and an improvement in overall health.
A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and honey a day could be enough to show visible improvements in the quality of your dog’s skin and fur. Before applying ACV topically do a patch test on the skin and coat first, and especially if your canine is a puppy.
ACV May Be Used For Muscle Sprains In Dogs
If you find that your dog has any of the following discomforts such as sore muscles, sore paws, bruises or abrasions, apply ACV to the affected area with cotton wool or a sponge.
ACV May Be Used For Skin And Coat Treatments
After you have washed your dog, you can add one cup of ACV to the final rinse of water. Experiment with different dilutions, we recommend 1 cup of vinegar diluted in 2 to 4 cups of water.
For skin irritations, rough skin, calluses, and sunburn apply ACV (full-strength or diluted), it can be in a spray form or may be applied with cotton or a sponge.
For itchy skin and hot spots, spray with ACV. Monitor the dog to see if redness or irritation develops, if it does wash off with water and discontinue use. This might be because of a sensitive skin in the puppy or dog.
ACV May Be Used For Itchy Feet Or Ears
Soaking the paws in diluted/full-strength ACV can reduce itchy feet (contracted by seasonal allergies – pollen exposure).
Place a few drops of ACV or a vinegar-based herbal tincture in each ear and gently massage, (may be applied with a cotton swab) to clean the dog’s ears and to keep them healthy.
ACV May Be Used As A Insect Repellent And Flea Dip
ACV may be sprayed onto the dog’s coat (tail, underbelly, neck, and torso – avoid the mouth, eyes, and nose) as it repels insects.
Pour, spray or sponge the dog or puppy entirely with ACV avoiding the mouth, nose, and eyes. Let it soak in for a few minutes, before washing the dog or puppy with a gentle shampoo.
ACV May Be Used To Clean Pet Stains and Odors
Mix 1 part of ACV with 3 parts water, pour onto stained area and blot with a paper towel, do not rub.
Pet bedding may be refreshed and deodorized by spraying it with ACV or by adding it to laundry when washing the bedding.
Pet toys can also be sprayed lightly with ACV to clean and disinfect them, just make sure they are wiped clean afterward.
