Is vinegar safe for dogs

Is Vinegar Safe for Dogs?

Key Takeaways

• Vinegar may cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs if ingested.
• Small dogs with sensitive stomachs and dogs with kidney disease do not do well with vinegar.
• Diluted vinegar or cleaning products containing vinegar can be used inside a house, but dogs should be kept away from these products during use to avoid accidental ingestion.
• More research is needed to support the possible benefits of vinegar for dogs.

The quick answer: Vinegar may not be entirely safe for your dog to consume orally.

Pet owners may incorporate diluted apple cider or white vinegar into their dogs diet or bathing regimens because of its claimed ability to heal, clean, and neutralize odors. It is thought that vinegar may improve some skin conditions and repel fleas. Many of these claims are based on anecdotal accounts, and homemade solutions may not be properly prepared to ensure safety and effectiveness. However, administering vinegar to your pet is not considered an ideal solution to any health ailments or cleaning needs your pet may have.

While some dogs can safely consume diluted vinegar, its important to be aware that many dogs do not react well. Vinegar can cause gastrointestinal upset when ingested especially when undiluted. This is especially common in small dogs, dogs with sensitive stomachs, and dogs with kidney disease. Dogs with underlying kidney disease already have a pH imbalance in their bodies, which can be further exacerbated by vinegar and have detrimental effects on body functions. Gastrointestinal upset is typically characterized by vomiting and diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration if left untreated.

For all the above reasons, youll find that many veterinarians do not advocate the usage of vinegar.

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Other Uses of Vinegar for Dogs

Some products prescribed by a veterinarian contain acetic acid, which is an ingredient in vinegar. Ear cleansers and topical products, such as wipes or shampoos, have been shown to be effective in treating ear and skin infections, respectively, and are supported by research studies. These products are specifically formulated for these purposes and contain active ingredients in the correct amounts for best efficacy and safety. While these products are known to be effective, they are limited to external use and should only be used as prescribed.

Can I Still Use Vinegar for Cleaning?

Yes. Vinegar used for cleaning is typically diluted and can be used in households with dogs. It is considered a natural cleaning product, and it may help to neutralize odors and remove pet stains. When using vinegar as a cleaning agent, ensure your dog is kept away from the products to avoid accidental ingestion.

As for using vinegar for baking and cooking (for humans), youre good to go. Just make sure your dog doesnt chow down on that salad with a homemade vinaigrette and be sure to wipe up any drops of vinegar that land on your counter or floor.

Misinformation on Vinegar and Dogs

Aside from the products described above that contain acetic acid and are formulated for specific health conditions in dogs, research is currently lacking to support other uses of vinegar. Theres also, unfortunately, quite a bit of misinformation being perpetuated online and by non-professionals.

Further proof that vinegar is not well-suited for dog consumption is the typical reaction pet owners get from their pooch when trying to feed it to them: they refuse to ingest it. Therefore, it is important to consult a veterinarian prior to implementing this ingredient into your dogs diet or healthcare routine.

Pet insurance for dogs can help provide peace of mind that the costs of veterinary care will be covered in case of an unexpected reaction or illness due to exposure to vinegar.

Curious about what is okay and not okay for your dog to eat? Check out our comprehensive guide on what human foods are safe and not safe for dogs.

Is Vinegar Safe for Dogs When Used for Cleaning? Vet-Approved Facts & Benefits

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Keeping the house clean is an ongoing task when youre an adult. But when you also own a dog, you know how much more cleaning is required.

If you want to use something thats environmentally friendly and safe for your dog, you may be wondering about vinegar. Is it safe to use around dogs?

Vinegar is safe for cleaning your home when you own a dog but it is important to know its limitations and what it can be used for. Lets look at vinegar, how it can help keep your home clean, and how it can benefit your dog.

Can You Use Vinegar for Cleaning Around Dogs?

When you use vinegar to clean your home, it needs to be diluted with water at a ratio of 1:1. It is perfectly safe for use around dogs although you might find they wander away from the smell. Vinegaracts as a natural cleaning product and can help remove stains and odors caused by pets. However, it is important to note that while vinegar can remove some dirt and kill some bacteria, it doesnt kill all germs.

While vinegar is generally safe around dogs, you dont want them ingesting too much. Vinegar is highly acidic, so dogs with sensitive stomachs or other conditions might experiencegastrointestinal upset. This might involve vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Still, its not likely that many dogs would want to lap up a large amount of undiluted vinegar!

Besides the potential for an upset tummy, vinegar is generally safe. Just try to keep it away from dogs with easily irritated stomachs or those who you know will attempt to eat anything they can get at!

What Can You Use Vinegar For?

Vinegar is known to make a great cleaner for windows, counters, and other surfaces. For pets, it has several other uses.

1. Cleaning Dog Messes

If your dog urinates or defecates on a carpet, vinegar combined with baking soda makes for an effective cleaner. The vinegar should be diluted with water. It can be white distilled or apple cider vinegar (most people tend to opt for the distilled white for cleaning).

Combine equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and the vinegar will effectively clean the mess. However, its not recommended to use vinegar on wood floors or natural surfaces like granite, marble, or stone countertops.

Vinegar can cause rubber to perish so its not recommended to use it in the washing machine, but you can use it to hand wash your dogs bed/bedding and food and water bowls.

Remember that vinegar doesnt kill bacteria as effectively as designated disinfectants, but as long as you are cleaning and not aiming to disinfect the area, it is a useful and eco-friendly product to use.

2. Neutralizing Stinky Odors

Whether using vinegar to clean a mess or neutralize doggy odor, spraying your carpet or your dogs bedding can help neutralize the smell.

You should first test your vinegar solution on an area of fabric or carpet that no one usually sees, in case it causes discoloration. The vinegar scent will evaporate and should remove any unpleasant odors.

3. Cleaning Your Dogs Ears

Many people say that apple cider vinegar, diluted with water, is a good ear cleaner. However, theres no scientific research behind this and we wouldnt advise putting anything into your animals ear without a veterinary examination and advice. If your dog has irritated or inflamed ears, vinegar, even diluted down, will sting and may do more harm than good.

4. Aiding With Digestion

Anecdotally, some dogs with poor digestion might have a higher than normal pH level in their stomachs. Adding vinegar to their food is said to help lower it although there is no reliable research showing this to be true.

5. Helping With Itchy Skin

When unfiltered, ACV contains proteins, enzymes, and good bacteria. This is why organic ACV looks cloudy. Those that are looking for alternative ways to help their itchy dogs can try combining equal parts water and ACV, and spraying your dogs skin, or soaking your dogs feet. However, if the skin is irritated or traumatized, the vinegar will sting, making the problem worse. It is always advisable to speak to your vet before attempting any home remedies.

6. Aiding Urinary Tract Infections

Again, this is an anecdotal claim, but some people report success in the reduction of symptoms of urinary tract infections with the use of apple cider vinegar. However, if you notice your dog is showing signs of a urinary tract problem (frequent urination, passing small amounts of urine each time, blood in the urine, pain on urination), it is absolutely essential that you take them to your vet for a correct diagnosis. Urinary tract infections can be simple or more serious and quick diagnosis is important. You should bring a urine sample to your vet and follow their guidance on treating the issue. Ask them if adding a tiny amount of organic ACV to your dogs food or water can help, particularly if your dog is prone to UTIs.

7. Repelling Fleas and Ticks

Bear in mind that this is not a treatment for fleas or ticks. If your dog has either, they will still need veterinary assistance.

You can spray your dog with a 50/50 water and vinegar solution to help keep fleas and ticks from making your dog their home. But this is not an elimination guarantee.

FAQ

Does Vinegar Disinfect Surfaces?

The high acidity of vinegar does give it disinfectant qualities, and the more acidic it is, the more it can act as a disinfectant.

But vinegar doesnt disinfect as well as diluted bleach, isopropyl alcohol, or commercial disinfectants. If you need to use a strong disinfectant, you shouldnt rely on vinegar.

Are There Other Safe DIY Household Cleaners?

Beyond vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide can all work quite well at cleaning and are safe around dogs.

Baking soda is known for its ability to absorb and neutralize bad odors. It also has abrasive qualities and can be used for scrubbing. Lemon juice isnt quite as acidic as vinegar but is a good antibacterial and antifungal agent. Hydrogen peroxide has antifungal and antiseptic qualities.

When you combine vinegar with one of these agents, youll have an even more effective cleaner that is safe to use around dogs. But you dont want them ingesting any of them.

What Are Harmful Household Cleaners?

Household cleaners that contain ammonia include furniture polish, glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, and drain cleaners. Inhaling or ingesting ammonia can lead to damage to the eyes, stomach, and respiratory system.

Bleach can damage the skin, fur and respiratory system when the pet comes in contact with or inhales it.

Finally, many carpet cleaners contain glycol ethers, which can cause reproductive and developmental problems in dogs.

Conclusion

Vinegar is quite a handy item: Many people use it for seasoning food and cleaning parts of the house. Its also safe to use around pets.

Its important to note that vinegar isnt a cure-all and should never be used to treat any health conditions that affect your dog. Always speak to your vet before you consider treating your dog with anything that they havent approved.

Dont allow your dog to ingest any vinegar if they have a sensitive stomach. That said, if youre looking for an environmentally friendly cleaning item, vinegar is a safe bet!

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Featured Image Credit: Geo-grafika | Getty Images.

Apple cider vinegar for dogs: benefits vs. risks

Is apple cider vinegar safe for dogs?

Yes, ACV is safe for dogs in small doses, just make sure to dilute your apple cider vinegar the right amount, generally 50/50 with water for topical uses and mixing it with drinking water or food for dietary uses. Follow the recommended oral dosage based on your pups weight.

Are there any risks or side effects?

Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to apple cider vinegar, so its important to watch for signs of irritation on their skin. A sudden intake of the acidic ACV can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestion problems. When taken internally, start with small amounts and monitor your dog for signs that they cant tolerate it.

What kind of apple cider vinegar should you buy?

When buying apple cider vinegar for yourself or your dog, its best to look for raw, organic, and undiluted apple cider vinegar with the mother included. This ensures that what you get is free of pesticides that can be harmful when ingested or used topically.

How much apple cider vinegar can I give my dog?

Oftentimes, vets base an ACV dosage recommendation on the dogs weight. Review our recommended dosage chart above for guidelines on whats a safe amount to offer your dog according to their size.