Most of the time, my blog posts are simple updates on Norman’s current skin condition and level of itchiness. And rightfully so. The site is called Itchy Frenchie after all. But from time to time, as I’m trying to come up with some new and interesting blog posts, I often sit down at the computer and enjoy a drink while I peruse our social media pages. I like to browse the recent posts of like minded pet owners who are trying to navigate the literal bumps in this ever winding road of allergies, skin problems, and other ailments that plague our four legged children…

Ok, that’s not exactly how it happens. In fact, I typically find interesting ideas in quick 5 minutes spurts while I’m at work. I jot them down on sticky notes so I don’t forget them, and I bring them home for further research. But then they typically sit on my desk for a couple weeks because I have a two year old human girl that relentlessly demands my attention for things like food and diapers and tea parties.

Oh, and of course there’s Norman.

Speaking of Norman, he’s doing just fine at the moment. It has been about 5 weeks since his last Cytopoint shot, so he is due for another one this week. Here’s a recent photo of him with a flamingo.

He was obviously coerced by an adorable, yet persistent toddler to go upstairs and play. But on to the topic at hand. Recently I have seen several people online asking about the use of apple cider vinegar for dogs. Honestly, I had not really heard much about it, but I was interested. So let’s explore.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs

As I was reading, I found a few common threads that I’ll highlight here that may be useful to readers that have dogs with challenging skin conditions. You can even give it to them topically or orally with their food and water. And the first one is right up our alley…

Itchy Skin

That’s right, apple cider vinegar may help relieve your pup’s itch. Now, it’s probably not going to do much for dogs with allergies like Norman. And it’s definitely not going to cure anything. However, if your dog is having bouts of itchiness from a flare up or even yeast, give this a try. Mix a 50/50 solution of the apple cider vinegar and water into a spray bottle. You can spray it directly on to the hot spot. Be careful if your dog has any open wounds near the hot spot. They will not appreciate that sting!

If you want to try an oral solution, you can add about 1/2 a teaspoon to their food or water each day. It is also supposed to be beneficial for their coat as well. However, do not give your dog undiluted vinegar by mouth. It can irritate their esophagus and stomach. Only give orally with food or water.

Fleas and Tick Repellant

The same 50/50 solution is said to repel fleas and ticks (and other bugs) as well. Spray it directly on to the the neck, tail, feet, and belly. I even read a couple articles that suggested using full strength apple cider vinegar by simply pouring it on to the dog and rubbing it in to their coat. You’ll want to avoid their eyes and nose. Let it set for a few minutes before rinsing it off with a little shampoo. You might test this first though, with a dab to the underbelly. There are mentions of the vinegar discoloring dogs with light or white coats.

Odor Eliminator

Now this is what I’m talking about. Bring on the deodorizer! You can apply the diluted solution to their skin just as previously mentioned and let your pup air dry. I’ve actually tried this a couple times over the past couple weeks and it seems to work for a bit. I might try a little stronger solution next time and let it set a little longer.

Ear Infection Relief

Another way to use apple cider vinegar for dogs is to help prevent ear infections. It’s antiseptic properties make it a great DIY option for those prone to infections (like Norman). With your diluted solution, soak a cotton ball and apply it to the inside of your dog’s ear. You can also try to use the spray bottle if they will let you, but good luck!

These are just a few of the benefits I came across. Do some research and see if your dog might be ale to benefit from some of apple cider vinegar’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties.

You can use about any brand of vinegar. Here’s one that seems to be pretty popular with pet owners:

Does it Really Work?

Ok, so not everyone is sold on the health benefits of apple cider vinegar for dogs. According to an article on PetMD, one vet said it is “unlikely to have a negative effect on a healthy pet.” Hmm, not exactly a ringing endorsement is it? They also warned about using it in pets that have kidney issues as it could be harmful to them. The article doesn’t go so far as to say you shouldn’t use apple cider vinegar for your pet. It just basically says that many of the claims being made, like it having amino acids (which the vet says it doesn’t) and the high potassium content, are simply overstated. And that there isn’t enough data to make a conclusive determination. Fair enough.

My take on it, give it a try and see if it helps your dog. If you’re having issues with one of the situations mentioned above, mix up a solution of test it out. I’d love to hear if it works for you!