The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Linda (Hillsborough, Nc) on 07/14/2012
★★★★★
After reading all the feed back on here about Apple cider vinegar, I figured I would try it over the weekend before bringing my 15 year old dog to the vet on Monday. I went to the health food store and bought a bottle of raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar and I mixed 2 tablespoons in organic yogurt or wet food every 4 hours I also put it in the water bowl. To my amazement it was gone!! I also have another dog with itchy skin and I mixed some in a water spray bottle with water, sprayed him down and he's doing great!! Thank you all for all your feedback!!!
Black Skin
Posted by Jlee (Singapore) on 07/06/2012
Quote: 01/23/2009: Jessica from Vincennes, Indiana replies: "I don't understand why a lot of people are against taking their animals to the vet. People, Vets have the education and experience to treat our beloved pets. Why would you want to take advice of every Tom, Dick and Harry out there. Are you just too cheap to get a true and accurate diagnosis. There is no way I would ever take advise from somebody other than our Vet. - Unquote
Cheap? No way!! I learnt the hard way, after having spent no less than USD3,000 on my two doggies, one of which had passed on - and experienced no less than 3 bum-vets. Between them, my doggies were either mis-diagnosed, under-medicated, over-medicated and worse, one even got my doggie overdosed on ivermectin and my puppy went blind for two dogs while the vet frantically tried to reverse the side-effects. One was even too arrogant to admit that he failed to take a skin scrape test to identify my puppy's problem, after pumping the poor doggie with needless antibiotics and steroids - not to mention having me pump in a few hundred dollars to no avail.
But thanks to this website, I found out some good home remedies from "Tom, Dick or Harry" here and much of the mange problem my puppy suffered over the months have been almost eradicated. That vet now recommends a few of the patients to use the home remedy I experimented on my puppy.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Mollie (Baltimore, Md) on 06/08/2012
How do I make this remidy?? I have a 7 month old pitbull pup who has had a ear infection that wont go away. The vet just tells me its from his mother cleaning him but I dont agree so I want to try this and need some help with it.
Allergies
Posted by Tammy (Mckinney, Tx) on 05/30/2012
In regards to choosing a better quality dog food, what about fresh pet select that is sold in the refrigerated section???
Acid Reflux
Posted by Yorkie (Douglas, Ga) on 05/28/2012
Yorkie with severe skin problems. Hair is very thin, two weeks ago he was pulling his own hair out, licks his paws all the time, itchy. I'm afraid to take him back to the vet because he always ends up on steroids. He weights about 6 lbs. How much apple cider vinegar do we give him?
Acid Reflux
Posted by Joel (Topeka, Kansas) on 04/12/2012
Thanks for these wonderful tips. You described my dog exactly. I'm going to try vinegar. Does it matter if it's white vinegar instead of Apple Cider Vinegar? Thanks, Joel, author
Black Skin
Posted by Susan (Orlando, Florida) on 04/11/2012
I am upset at the comment about natural remedies being used because the owner is too cheap. I have a wonderful vet who has treated my dog for his whole life and in that time I have spent over ten thousand dollars on his care. However, his body has reached a point at which it can no longer tolerate allergy injections because they have cause damage to liver. He now has a very long list of things he cannot have and natural remedies are my only option for his comfort and care. Those chemicals from the vet have wrecked my poor dogs body and had I put more effort into finding alternatives sooner I would not be in this position.
I agree with this "Vets and doctors do the best they can but unfortunately don't always have the answers."
Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects
Posted by Stan (Tucson, Az) on 03/13/2012
When using hydrogen peroxide make sure you use "Food Grade" hydrogen peroxide.
Black Skin
Posted by Charlia (Sydney, Australia) on 03/11/2012
I also have a very good vet and I also have a very good doctor and I believe both are invaluable and serve a purpose however in saying that I do feel that they're prejudice and limited when it comes to natural remedies. I have used natural remedies for years on both myself and my animals and had amazing results, when my vet told me there was nothing except a lifetime on cortisone that would solve my dogs skin problems I wasnt convinced, after much research I completely cured him with very simple techniques.
Vets and doctors do the best they can but unfortunately dont always have the answers.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Littlebit (Berrien Springs, Mi, Usa) on 02/25/2012
I have a Boston Terrier who has dandruff and eye boogies with red eye close to the bottom lid. Vet says it's allergies. I just came across this website and would like to try the apple cider vinegar. What part of the neck do you apply the Apple Cider Vinegar to? What is EVCO? Thanks for the tips.
EC: EVCO -- Extra Virgin Coconut Oil!
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Anneinny (Putnam Valley, Ny/usa) on 02/24/2012
I'm SO grateful to have found this site as my lab often has sore ears! I'm going to try this today!
Someone mentioned YOGURT and that it almost always has sugar in it. It's very easy to make yogurt, the cost is about 1/2 the store price, it tastes BETTER and you can do it 1 hour before bed and awaken to fresh yogurt in the morning.
Set your oven to about 90 degrees C. Put 1/2 gallon whole milk in a steel or ceramic lined saucepan (not aluminum) and heat on the stovetop til it comes to the boil (or 82 degrees C if you have a candy thermometer). When the milk starts to boil, remove pan from the hot burner. Turn off the oven & keep oven door closed.
When milk has cooled to finger-warmth (or 40 degree C), add 1/2 cup PLAIN yogurt with ACTIVE CULTURES (easy to find at the grocer). Mix VERY well. Cover the pan with a tight lid, wrap in a large towel and place inside the warmish oven for about 8 hours. Go to bed. In the morning you'll awaken to homemade yogurt that tastes heavenly and has the texture of pudding. Put in covered containers in the frig. It makes about a liter.
If you want thicker, Greek-style yogurt, just strain it. Place a colander (strainer) lined with cheesecloth, multiple paper towels, a cotton kitchen towel or even a clean pillow case, above a bowl (I do this in the sink; it can be messy if you have poor aim). Spoon the yogurt into the lined collander so the excess liquid goes into the bowl beneath the strainer/collander. Optional: tie up the ends of the towel with a rubber band or string and suspend above the pan with a chopstick or kitchen spoon. After a few hours the yogurt will be adequately strained. Don't toss the liquid (whey)! You can put it in your dog's food (they love it) or even use when cooking your own food as a replacement for water or milk.
I give my dogs 1 soft egg and 1/2 cup yogurt every morning and it does seem to help their coats and digestive system.
Thanks for such a wonderful site! I so prefer natural solutions to chemicals and yes, our vet also charges about $130 just to walk in the door!! I appreciate the option to at least try something at home first!
Anne
Arthritis
Posted by Suzanne (Glace Bay, Nova Scotia (ns), Canada) on 02/09/2012
So Sorry to hear about the pain your fur-child is in, I am in cape breton, N. S. Canada & I swear by glucosamine it is a human vitamin easily bought from any drugstore & it will bring her relief, hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, this horrible pain hits the larger breeds & older breeds as well. Please do some research on your own about glucosamine so you will be better informed & feel better about giving this to her. Good-Luck
Black Skin
Posted by Sherry (Longview, Washington, Usa) on 02/02/2012
I have discovered most vets are in it for the money. When we took our much loved bird, named Rachel, to the vet when she had a runny nose- the vet gave her a shot. Rachel, who had been playfully cleaning her feathers, suddenly made a terrible noise and went limp. She died 30 minutes later while I held her. It was horrific. I wish I had not taken her to that vet. I got my money back. I said I didn't pay to have our bird killed. That shot should not have happened. If vets really cared about pet health they would have more affordable prices and would be opened on weekends. We do have to take our dogs to the vet for rabies shots and things like ear infections (the pills they gave our dog Ozzy made him very sick so I stopped giving them to him), but I am very careful about what I let them do to my pets. There have been times that made me doubt my pet was in good hands at the vets. I love reading the natural cures on this site and I will be trying them out.
Allergies
Posted by Waves4me (Los Angeles, Ca) on 01/29/2012
Externally fine. Not in their drinking water. Very important fact people!!! Yes ACV, an acid, is very alkalizing to humans after digestion (Think potassium) and benefits our health. Remember that our body maintains a blood Ph of 7.4
The human digestion system is very different than that of a dog. Their system is much shorter. Seriously this is animal nutrition 101. Remember they are mainly carnivores. Check their teeth and then look at yours. DONT give them ACV in drinking water for extended periods of time.
Allergies
Posted by Waves4me (Los Angeles, Ca) on 01/29/2012
Very important fact people!!! Yes ACV is alkalizing to humans and benefits our health. Remember that our body maintains a blood Ph of 7.4
The human digestion system is very different than that of a dog. Their system is much shorter and more acidic. Seriously this is animal nutrition 101. Remember they are mainly carnivores. Check their teeth and then look at yours. DONT give them ACV for extended periods of time.
Arthritis
Posted by Liz (Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa) on 01/24/2012
What dosage of apple cider vinegar should I give a 14 year old daxie with real bad arthritis and in food or water? Please help, my poor baby is permanently on cortisone and dgp, but she still has really bad days, when she won't even get up from her bed.
Allergies
Posted by Lucy (Makati, Philippines) on 01/20/2012
Aimee, buy vinegar from coconut stands on roadsides they sell by the gallon for PHP 60 same acidity level as ACV. I used it on my dogs for 1 week- now all the hair he lost is back and he doesn't scratch his body anymore.
Allergies
Posted by Leonard (Global City, Philippines) on 01/19/2012
I just bought a bottle today after reading ACV and Yogurt as an alternative treatment for red scaly itchy paw and vulva. It cost 150 pesos/bottle. Equivalent to $3.48 and it is a big bottle. You go to Market Market in Global City.
I will keep you posted on the development. I just did my first spray this evening.
Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects
Posted by Blklabchow10yr (Port Charlotte, Florida, United States) on 01/03/2012
My outlook is.... Whenever possible, if there's something you're not sure of, always start with a very small amount & give it a day or so, then maybe try a bit more & give it a day or so, then a bit more, till you get where your trying to get, which is the tablespoonful I'm assuming. Just an opinion. That way, if something's going to happen such as a reaction or it doesn't agree with your pet, it's a very small amount at least, better than the full dose all at once.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Blklabchow10yr (Port Charlotte, Florida, United States) on 01/03/2012
My lab has an itchy irritated back for a long time.. I've tried so many methods, and at this point inthe game, I have to wonder if some of the methods which most have said "works". I have to wonder if they didn't make it worse in some way.
I just got back from the store & have my bottle of apple cider vinegar & trying to convince myself to dab a bit on his back for the first time. I also picked up some greek plain yogurt, can't find any that doesn't have at least 8 grams of sugar in it, but otherwise it says it's natural & no flavoring. I let him lick a dab off my finger just to start small and see how he likes it & if it agrees with him, in a very small amount............ If this Vinegar helps relieve or even clear up his rashy back....... I will be FLOORED & will ... Do something to celebrate, because this has been HALF the stress in my life for a long time. It's heartbreaking literally to not be able to help him knowing it itches that bad. Vet did nothing but LOOK at it, talk a bit, ask questions & charge me 185.00 and gave me some pills which, after reading possible side effects, which the worst was Death, I was too scared to give him a pill , so............... vet trip was just about worthless.
WISH ME LUCK lol I pray the ACV at least HELPS, I hope.
Allergies
Posted by Sherri (Houston, Tx) on 01/03/2012
Diamond dog food is good, however, they can change from bag to bag. When I adopted my dog, they said that the first 2 ingredients should be protein. I bought Diamond (green bag) with the first 2 ingredients being protein, however, the next time the 2nd ingredient wasn't protein. You have to watch it everytime you buy a new bag.
Allergies
Posted by Rey (Manila, Philippines) on 12/23/2011
Aimee, ACV is not that expensive, try choosing other cheaper brands.
Administering
Posted by Dogma (Honolulu, Hawaii) on 12/19/2011
Have you been to a holistic vet? The regular ones aren't going to help, just medicate and toxify and bring death sooner.
I mix the ACV in a little broth from anything with a taste they like. If you are making a meat or chicken base for dinner, put it in some water for a minute and let the water pick up some of the juice from the meat. Then use that to add with ACV - they likely lap it up. Don't use anything with preservatives, etc because they you are almost canceling out the good effects. Just adding some warm water to a (high quality, please) kibble will create a broth. You are giving small doses and it should hide it well enough.
TRY this neutriceutical site for a good solution. I start with the Internal Gold Detox kit for both dog and cat but look at the other products and trust your inner voice. These products have save me huge vet bills (the natural antibiotic is fantastic), don't cause any side effects, are organic and even saved one of my rabbit's lives. Highly recommend them all. I also use the natural heartworm product, HWF to prevent heartworm (one week a month). AMBER TECHNOLOGIES: Pet Medications | Amber Tech | Holistic Pet Meds
Kidney and immune issues usually stem from bad food (there is lots of it out there). Switch to a grain free, human grade food if you haven't already. Two to look at to give you an idea of the quality you are looking for: Orijen (Canadian, free range) and Primal (real food in frozen form). Do not trust any of the food at your vet's office. It's full of junk and not designed to meet dog's nutritional needs on any level. VETS KNOW NOTHING ABOUT NUTRITION. You have to learn on your own. Really recommend "Food Pets Die For", a book that will let you know what's really in pet food. I feed my dogs real, organic food now to ensure a long healthy life.
Best of luck!
Administering
Posted by Michelle (Akron, Ohio) on 12/17/2011
I add it to my dogs' food. My mutts are hogs and they woof it down. Added to water, the smell is strong because there is nothing masking it, but with food the smell of the yumminess is enough to negate the stinky ACV.
Administering
Posted by Linda (Vancouver, Wa, Usa) on 12/12/2011
I have a dog with kidney problems and a kitty with immune issues. After reading through your site, I decided to give the Apple Cider Vinegar a try. I've put it in the animal's water but they don't seem to be drinking it. Is there a trick to getting them to take the ACV?
Allergies
Posted by Lynn (Childersburg, Alabama) on 12/10/2011
Diamond All Naturals does have a variety that doesn't contain corn, wheat or soy. It is the lamb and rice.
Black Skin
Posted by Dee (Vancouver, Bc) on 12/06/2011
As sad as it is, part of most dvm's jobs are partially sales! I know because I did the whole 8 year haul and am not even working in a clinic. They all have shares in the crappy food they are selling and no breeder or competitor I know will ever buy that stuff. Most of my friends never bring dogs to the vet unless it's for breeding. I heard so many ridiculous stories and so called "remedies" vets have used. Dont hesitate get a second opinion!
Black Skin
Posted by Lgomez (Winnipeg, Manitoba) on 12/03/2011
I love my vet- she is very proactive and isn't in it for the money but for the love of animals. I can call her and she will give me home remedies before telling me to bring my dogs in. Even with dog food- sure she sells dog food- but she told me to buy Costco brand Kirkland food- due to very few fillers in the dog food. I do believe in doing your homework and going to the vet as a last resort - nothing wrong with that. But also do your homework in your vet as well, I drive outside of the city to my vet- I did my homework. Country vets are way better and more in the industry for the love of animals then the paycheck.
Allergies
Posted by Disel (Toronto, On, Canada) on 11/26/2011
Suzan from Jackson, Mi... Blue buffalo does not contain corn, wheat or soy... diamond does.
Apple Cider Vinegar Dosages
Posted by Debbie (Orchard Park, Ny) on 11/18/2011
General Feedback
Posted by Etelle (Morningside, Md) on 11/12/2011
How do I get my schitzu to drink his water when I put the apple cider vinegar in it. I have been doing this since the summer and he will ignore the water. Then in a couple of days he will drink it. Should I put it in his food instead? I give him dry food only. Beneful
Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Usa) on 11/01/2011 2048 posts
Helen, no expert but will add my two cents. The ACV could have caused a herx reaction and she is throwing off the dead pathogens. This should subside after a few hrs, if not call Vet. After the critical phase, discontinue the ACV and use 3% Hydrogen Peroxide as an alternative. Just a few drops in water bowl will prove benficial for cleansing and detoxing.
Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects
Posted by Helen (Melbourne, Victoria Australia) on 10/31/2011
First dose of this and my dog hasn't stopped throwing up. I am now getting worried about her, what can I do?
Acid Reflux
Posted by Susana (Creston, North Carolina) on 10/28/2011
★★★★★
This is a wonderful home remedy, which I discovered on this site. I take it everyday and haven't gotten sick, not even a cold, but I am posting to help pet owners whose dogs get acid reflux. My 11-yr-old Golden mix had a gurgling stomach frequently. I have been giving him a capful of ACV w/his meal and the gurgling has ceased. If I ever hear his stomach churning a bit, I give him a droper-full and it goes away within the hour. This stuff is great!
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Joanna (Augusta, Me) on 10/27/2011
This is to all the people who go see a vet. Maybe some of these people have and the vet hasn't helped the problem cause I have seen a vet multiple times about my dog and costs me hundreds and still hasn't helped at all.
My dog is a boxer and he has had a severe itching and chewing on himself raw, but the vets just say allergies give some predisone for a couple of weeks. Once med is gone he's back at it and sometimes worse tried everything under the sun with the vets nothing. Sometimes I don't think the vets know what they are doing especially if they can't seem to help fix the problem.
So I came across this apple cider vinegar idea from this site. Gave him a bath with it a few hours ago hasn't chewed or itched. Put a tsp. in his drinking water and hes been drinking it right up.
So think again before you say take advice from every tom, dick and harry cause it may just help. Doesn't hurt to try. A lot of vets don't really know what thay are talking about all they want is our money.
Allergies
Posted by Suzanne (Jackson, Mi) on 10/26/2011
I can't speak for the cider remedies but my little german short haired pointer had the same problem took him to the vet and they instantly said looks like a food allergy. Try a food that is corn, soy, and wheat free. It worked- his ears cleared up and he has not had any other problems. I used blue buffalo food and recently switched to diamond.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Dalon (Taunton, Ma) on 10/23/2011
What is the proper portions for mixing these ingredients?
Black Skin
Posted by Crusher1 (Austin, Tx) on 10/19/2011
Jessica, Have you ever watched a commercial on how many side effects there are for the medications that doctors prescribe to you. Do you think it's any different for animals? So what is so terribly wrong with someone wanting to be able to treat their animal with natural remedies? I think you need to find another website to attack people who are trying to do harm to animals instead of people who really care about them.
Black Skin
Posted by Andrea (Ottawa, Ontario) on 10/01/2011
To "Jessica": It is unfair to broadstroke accuse people who love their animals of being "cheap". We are not against vets, we are against the propaganda we have been fed that states that vets because they are educated, know what's best.
That being said, why don't these "educated" vets tell us that dogs don't need to be vaccinated every year, that 1 out of 10 dogs may suffer a reaction and in the case of my dog, die as it did this summer from over vaccination? My heart aches every day for my Willis, who was the picture of health until he got his booster shots, which caused kidney failure.
These "educated" vets won't tell you that most vet schools are funded by the big dog food companies, and they provide kick backs to sell their food, and their "good food" is chemically-enhanced kibble, with a life span of up to 25 years!! So much for "natural". What dogs ate 50 years ago, before vet-recommended kibble was invented, was more wholesome, natural food. But of course, there's no profit in that.
I know people that work in the vet industry and they have said they've lost good vets and vet techs over constantly butting heads with the hospital owners who are in it for the bottom line - the profit margin, not your dog's ultimate health. That's why they want your dog coming in every year for unnecessary vaccinations - it's their biggest source of revenue, since the vaccine only costs about 90 cents, yet they charge up to $50. My dog's best interest? I think not.
The vets work for us, not the other way around.
Dull Coat Issues
Posted by Pippa (Picton, New Zealand) on 09/28/2011
★★★★★
I use apple cider vinegar on top of my dogs food, diluted with water. I may add some olive oil or blackstrap molasses to hide the taste. My dogs coat shines within hours. It is lush and soft.
My chickens look shiny with a dash of ACV in their drinking water.
Allergies
Posted by Mel (Cambridge, Minnesota) on 09/13/2011
I was reading everyones blogs, and noticed one that said if your dog has yeast problems use white vinegar instead of acv... Does anyone else agree? My dog has chronic ear infections itches all the time and has a bad odor. I want to make sure I use the right vinegar. Any help would be great.
Allergies
Posted by Eve (Toronto, Ontario) on 09/03/2011
★★★★★
I use white vinegar on both my dogs and in my home, it is a natural Febreeze, my dogs do not smell like dogs. No odour at all. I bathe my little one in Water and vinegar for any bugs or cuts that might be on her and within 24 hours all problems are solved. ACV works well too but the odour is a little overwhelming.
Apple Cider Vinegar Side Effects
Posted by Jennifer (Mooreland, Indiana) on 09/02/2011
I have started putting ACV in my 11 year old dogs water for arthritis and incontinence. Since she has thrown up about 8 times in two days. Is this vomiting linked to the ACV.
Arthritis
Posted by Cindy (San Francisco, California) on 08/28/2011
Hi Heleen,
Good job on giving your dog healthy supplements, the only thing I would change would be replacing the cod liver oil with a whole fish oil. As you know, the job of the liver is to rid the body of toxins. Giving cod liver oil increases the risk of toxins in your dogs diet, depending on the toxins in the liver of the fish. And maybe give a probiotic. If the dog has ever been on an anti-biotic (or a human for that matter), they kill ALL the bacteria in the stamache, the bad ones AND the good ones. They DO NOT "grow" back on their own, they need to be replaced. These are found in milk, yoghurt & cheese products. By giving probiotics, you are promoting a healthy flora in the digestive system, and there by promoting a healthier system in general. Up to 80 per cent of our immune systems are based on our digestive tracts. I have worked for 4 years in the healthy food industry, and off and on for nearly 20 years for a reputable, proffesional dog groomer.
Keep up the good work!
Good luck!
Cindy (San Francisco, Ca.)
Allergies
Posted by Aimee (Manila, Philippines) on 08/23/2011
I plan to try the ACV treatment discussed in this website as a spray option for my 1-year old Golden Retriever's hot spots. Unfortunately, ACV is expensive here in the Philippines.
Has anybody tried using regular white vinegar (in our case, it will be cane vinegar) as a post-bath rinse or preventative spray against ticks or application on hot spots?
Thanks! Any feedback or information would help.
Allergies
Posted by Anne (Marldon, Devon, England) on 08/19/2011
Apple Cider Vinegar is the best preventative there is.
I simply cannot believe that there is an ad for Frontline on this page! The main ingredient has been listed as one of the most highly carcinogenic substances ever tested - for humans as well as dogs and cats.
And the newer ones like Advocate and Advantage are full of the chemical that has been most seriously implicated in the disappearance of the bees.
As the old saying goes, "Don't use a cannon to kill a mosquito."
Allergies
Posted by Jyps (Landing, Nj) on 08/18/2011
★★★★★
Depending on the breed my friends dog had crystalized urine also because of all the medication. She did change her dogs diet to raw even though it was hard for her. Her dog ended up doing well with alternative methods. I mention this because apple cider vinegar also works for people.
2 teaspoons in a glass of water. It also kills any kind of worms that a person or pet can have. It should actually be 2 tsps either in their water or food. Once a day. Or every other day. You would need to change your dogs diet.
I think maybe you should read up on what your dog is really eating. There was a veterinary school who actually followed Purina and several other big dog companies and found that they were taking dead dogs and cats out of dumpsters (some that died of cancer or other illnesses) and they grind this into your dogs food.
Your dog is eating sickness and not good food. It even made news here in NJ. Be careful what you feed your dog. Apple cider will help with change of diet. If you can't do raw do an organic or kibble like evo or Abdy which are the better foods out there.
Black Skin
Posted by Pam (Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada) on 08/17/2011
You may have a vet who is caring and there for your animal, but not everyone is so lucky. My cat's face was swollen on one side, I took him to the local vet and after examing him the vet tells me it could be two things, cancer or an absess tooth. He wanted to do some testing for cancer which cost $350.00 and that didn't include the visit which was $50.00 plus tax and also if he had cancer and we couldn't afford to have treatments he suggested we have the cat put down right away. We suggested that maybe he treat the cat for an absess tooth. He gave the cat a shot of antibotics and within one week the cat was fine. We haven't been back to the vet since. The bill ended up being $84.00.
Arthritis
Posted by Katnco (Palisade, Co) on 08/03/2011
★★★★★
My dog is 10 yrs old and has bad hips, I put him on glucosamine and chondroitin a couple months back and that made a big difference, but three days ago I added a cap (not a cup, a cap) of ACV to his water and he didn't seem interested to drink it, so I literally hand fed him some water and he took it. Now for the last two days when he drinks his water, he drinks long. This morning we went for our usual walk by the river and he actually ran! He has not been able to run for 6 months. ACV is working wonders and I did not give him a large dose, just a cap full which is about a teaspoon. Fyi - he is 72 lbs - a big guy. THANK YOU EARTH CLINIC!!!
Arthritis
Posted by Bld6957 (Sullivan, Illinois, Usa) on 07/27/2011
How much do you actually give your dog each day?
Black Skin
Posted by Troubles (Oak Ridge, Tn) on 07/09/2011
There's a place for vets, but I have never been to a vet that was proactive and provided advice about dog food. Had to do my own research to realize that Beneful was ruining my dog's health, ruining the quality of his life.
Allergies
Posted by Sal (Roodepoort, Gauteng, South Africa) on 06/22/2011
Hi there
Please can someone assist in explaining how I should use ACV for calluses on elbows and hock joints??? please! Is it good to pour a little ACV into the dogs drinking water? I have two large boerbulls that drink water by the gallon!! Thanks
Allergies
Posted by Toqueenelisabeth (Columbia, Sc) on 06/13/2011
★★★★★
Crazy fact!
I had heard of and began to utilize the benefits of old school uses with hydrogen peroxide. However, we always use Frontline for our critters. Never had I considered something as simple as ACV for treatment.
Flees and insects thrive in our hot/humid climate as well as allergies. In SC you can treat your pets but they always pick up insects from the outdoors and Frontline is/has been the only effective solution. Unfortunately and to my understanding the insect must get on your pet in order to kill it, thus ending life cycles. Plus if the neighbor does not effectively treat, the problem still surrounds your pet.
After making a comment to a friend about how bad flees seemed this year she said "ACV. " ……Seriously?!
Within a week of occasional use by 50/50 spray on the pets I have seen no indication of flees or itchiness. Makes perfect sense to deter flees from the animal altogether. Right?Our critters may not like the smell or taste but it is a small price "literally" to pay. Once again, thank you Old School!
Allergies
Posted by Pets Inn (Pawleys Island, Sc) on 06/05/2011
★☆☆☆☆WARNING!
Wendy,
The ACV works and one should remember everything in moderation. You may have given too much as it is oly 1 tsp for 50 lb dog and one should use it on and off not steady for 3 straight months. Foods have also caused UTI's.
Apple Cider Vinegar Dosages
Posted by Stacey (Phoenix, Arizona) on 06/05/2011
I want to start giving my German Shepard some ACV, but I am not sure how much I should give? Does it go in their water, or on their food, or both? And how much ACV do I mix with the water and food? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks!
Allergies
Posted by Alaturka (Chiefland, Fl/usa) on 05/16/2011
As an Anatolian owner for more than 20 years, I have dealt with all kinds of allergies. Food has definitely seemed to be the most defining cause for most of them. In the last few years, I have found that foods that have no wheat, no corn, no soy and NO by-products are usually the best for your dog. Some of the foods I have found that work best are found at feed and seed stores around the country. Tractor Supply has their own brand "4Health" that I really like, along with "Diamond All Naturals" and "Taste Of The Wild".
Since I started using these foods, my dogs no longer get hot spots, have less shedding, and they eat it on a regular basis (something that doesn't regularly happen with Anatolians). My Anatolians are working livestock guardians that live out in the pasture pretty much 24/7, so it is very important they get really good nutrition. We have one guy that not only works, but also exhibits at Dog Shows... Last year he won our National Specialty and became AKC's First Grand Champion Anatolian. We use ACV diluted 1/4 to rinse his coat when we bathe him to give it extra shine and keep his skin supple. I, myself, take raw ACV every day in my morning vitamin smoothy.
Black Skin
Posted by Crisi (Houston, Tx) on 04/14/2011
I agree. The last time I took Aj my mini schnauzer to my vet for shots he had a horrible reaction. I brought him back the next day for "observation" by a "visiting" vet everyone there did nothing to calm my fears they actually brushed them aside and told me it was nothing. They would not give me an explanation of why he might be having the reactions which led me to the conclusion that the shots he had were unecessary. He had fever, no appetite, vomitting and was lethargic. When we picked him up from an all day visit the "visiting vet" tried to charge me an extra fee of which I did not pay. Aj's symptoms did not go away even after the "VV" claimed nothing was wrong. The third day after his shots he seemed to get worse, I returned to my vet only to find them closed. I am on a paid plan and was under the impression I could not go to any other vets in the chain without big fees that I just don't have available to me.
Aj came through just fine a few days later. I feel that he is over vaccinated that the chain vet is not really there in the best interest of my pet that they are there as long as my pocket book is deep. If I can find a natural way to relieve his itching and discomfort I will do that because the vet has offered no solutions or relief for my sweet puppy.
Allergies
Posted by Jeanne (Hammonton, Nj) on 03/09/2011
Please consider changing the food! Kibbles&Bits comes from what is known as the 4D category: Ingredients made with disabled, diseased, dying, or dead animals. Do some research to find a food with acceptable ingredients. They are out there now and are very reasonably priced.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Merilynrb (Near Madison, Wi) on 02/21/2011
For my dogs I give about 1/3 cup, one dog is 100 lbs the other is a puppy and about 60 lb. My cats get about 1/2 Tbsp every night with mixed canned and dry food. They also all get Apple Cider Vinegar, 1 tsp for each. The dogs get it for preventative and the cats because one has irritable bowel and they switch bowls often. The IBS kitty will eat the ACV first. All pets now lose much less fur and have shinier healthier coats.
Arthritis
Posted by Airbmac (Spokane, Wa) on 02/10/2011
Hey I found a great way to give my dog ACV, I poured the ACV into a cup and filled a straw with the ACV and measured how many strawfulls made a teaspoon. Then I held her mouth open and poured the strawfull right down her throat. She was not very happy with me, but I know she will be feeling better soon. Also I had tried everything to get her to take the ACV before I had even tried cooking a little bit of bacon to cover the smell and mixing it in with her food.
General Feedback
Posted by Diane In Louisiana (New Orleans, La) on 02/07/2011
I have a 13 year old Rhodesian. He had enlarged prostate and not neutered and had trouble urinating. Vet said he had to be neutered to shrink prostate. This was done however it's been a few months and every week or two he has to get a catheter to urinate. He is on permanent antibiotics Clavamox 375 mg. and bethanechol 3 x a day. I also give him ACV 2 tsp 2x a day. He still has problems due to a stretched bladder. I am wondering am I doing harm by giving ACV with the antibiotics since he is not improving how long he goes between having catheter.
Apple Cider Vinegar Dosages
Posted by Phyllis (Brick, Nj/usa) on 02/02/2011
My yorkie is 5lb, I am going to use the Apple Cider Vinegar to clear up her eye stains.... What dosage shall I use and how often? also when will I see results? thank you so much!!!
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Tinkonthebrink (Asheville, Nc, Us) on 01/25/2011
mandy - if you have carpets, sprinkle borax on them and brush in, don't vacuum too soon. But fleas are one of the areas where I don't rely on natural solutions. Dogs in our area need heartworm prevention and revolution resolves a myriad of problems, including fleas. One note: according to pfizer, it's 100% effective at 2 month intervals and almost 100% at 4 months (this is published in a government pda file, you can easily find the info). The people here who don't totally trust their vet's advice are correct to be suspicious and to do their own research. I dose every two months in warm weather and after the first hard freeze I do one last dose and then stop until 8 weeks after I start seeing any spring insects. We have six dogs, no fleas.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Shaun (Portsmouth Uk, Uk) on 11/02/2010
★★★★★
May 2009 I placed a thread concerning ACV. (Apple cider Vinegar, regarding my dog's ears. Without warning my dog's ears would start to get red and inflamed. After the first signs a day or two later they would be very bad. Red, sore, and in some cases bleeding. I then apply a solution of ACV (equal amount 50/50, Apple Cider Vinegar and water), twice a day, and this within 3 to 4 days would solve the problem. Before I tried a number of vets without any resolution. They would at great cost give me ear drops and other creams etc. They never worked just money down the drain.
I now apply ACV once a week to my dog's ears using a large cotton wool ball. I just wipe the inside of the ear and squeeze the AVC solution down the ear, I never push the cotton wool ball down the ear, just simply allow the solution to run down the ear channel. I believe the problem with my dog is down to his reaction to pollen, like rolling in cut grass. If it was not for ACV, I would not know what to do. Shaun Cunningham
Portsmouth
UK
Black Skin
Posted by Mark (Stockton, Ca) on 10/26/2010
In response to "Jessica from Vincennes", I have learned the hard way that many vets are in it for the money period. A good example of this is the dog food that they sale from there office. If you have done any research on dog food, then you know that any dog food sold at the grocery store is pure garbage and not fit for any dog. The same dog foods are being recommended and sold to the dog owner by these vets. These vets do not care about the animals best interests. I'm sure that they are getting kick backs by the corporations that are making this garbage dog food that is not fit for a maggot. This is just the tip of the iceberg, but a test that everyone could use as a basis for their vets ethics. If you don't know much about what should or shouldn't be in your dogs food, there is plenty of good info at your finger tips and you owe it to your dog to figure this out, like right now!
Allergies
Posted by Rebecca (Covington, Ky) on 10/21/2010
To Roop from Singapore: Try giving your dog the following food: Science diet prescription - Z/D low allergen. This has helped tremendously w/allergies.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Julie (Columbus, Oh) on 10/13/2010
What is the portion size of plain yogurt to give my dog and how often? She suffers from yeast infections in her paws and ears.
Arthritis
Posted by Manny (Seattle, Wa) on 10/01/2010
If your dog won't drink the Apple Cider Vinegar in drinking water, try adding the Apple Cider Vinegar to broth water instead. I make my dogs food (chicken or turkey) and as a result I always have broth available. I freeze it. You can use use store bought but its better to use home cooked without added spices. This is also effective for a dog who gets dehydrated and won't drink water. I also use this broth to cook any of the vegetables or other foods that I give him. I went to home made dog food when our other dog was diagnosed with Lymphoma. Broth water solved a lot of issues for trying to get liquids into my dogs.
General Feedback
Posted by Teri A. (Palm Harbor, Fl, Usa) on 09/14/2010
Hi everyone, thanks for all of your great posts on ACV. I ran out and picked some up. Put it in the food and drinking water. I plan to put some on the nape of the neck like flea medicine to see what happens! My Boo gets infections in his mouth, will ACV help clear it up? So tired of the steroid injections and antibiotics! Please help!
Allergies
Posted by Dmarie (Lawrenceville, Ga) on 07/15/2010
To Roop: Give youghurt for skin disorders. Also helps fungal infections.
Allergies
Posted by Courtney (Buffalo, Ny) on 03/02/2010
I found that bathing Zoey in Aveeno baby cream oatmeal body wash then rinsing her with ACV works wonders I also give her a bowl of organic plain yogurt with a little ACV....she is now 100% better
Allergies
Posted by Courtney (Buffalo, Ny) on 02/23/2010
★★★★★
I give her 1/4 cup of ORGANIC plain yogurt and when i bathe her I use doggie shampoo and then rinse her with 1/4 ACV-3/4 warm water, I sponge it on to her face and let her air dry.....Every day since then the 1st thing she does when she wakes up is scratch so I spray her with a mix of 1/2 ACV 1/2 water and she is fine, then before bed I spray her again and she is fine...I am also just feeding her kibbles and bits original food. She smells like vinegar REALLY bad but its a small price to pay for her happiness!!
Allergies
Posted by Courtney (Buffalo, Ny) on 02/20/2010
★★★★★
I have to tell you that I am in SHOCK!!!! ACV works!!!! It really works!!!! My poor Zoey is 3 and has been scratching and licking and biting her feet for almost 3 yrs...she has been on EVERY pill there is...every topical there is....has had every test...i have spent THOUSANDS at the vet...tried raw food...NOTHING and i mean NOTHING has worked untill now....i did it last night and omg!!! she is FINE!!!! I cannot beleive what i am seeing!!!! THANK YOU ACV!!!!
Now if i can just get her to stop shaking off she will be perfect!
EC: Hi Courtney, can you please send us more info re: your dosage and recipe? Thanks!
Apple Cider Vinegar Dosages
Posted by Cindy (York Haven, Pa) on 02/10/2010
Sorry to ask this here but couldn't find a contact area. Could you tell me how much apple cider vinegar I should use for a 4 lb. poodle? I used about 1/8 tsp. & seems to be helping already. Thanks, Cindy
Broad Benefits
Posted by Kayla (San Francisco, Ca) on 02/02/2010
I am very happy with the Apple Cider Vinegar. My dog was recovering from a stroke, so I have been very critical with the food he eats. The stroke apparently derived from an ear infection and his equilibrium was affected by the stroke. His heads is slightly tilted. Anyways, instead of taking him to the vet to try to cure his ear infection, I took the liberty to do my own research. Taking him to the vet only to get a pharma drug was only going to beget another drug, and so on which eventually will lead to major problems. I didn't want a temporary cure, nor can I afford to keep throwing money away just to hear that he may have to be put to sleep or a major surgery to look into his brain which will cost me over $3,000 . Well, I found this site and tried apple cider vinegar and mix it with his food at 2 tablespoonfuls. He eats twice a day, so I add to his dish and he chomps it down. I also clean his ears with ACV, probably about 2 tablespoon 50/50 spring water to dilute for each ear. So I make this a habit to clean his ear twice a week and add ACV twice daily on his food 3-4 a week. My doggie is doing great!! No vet. His UTI is diminishing after 2 weeks of doing this, his hearing is improving, his disposition is way much better and I feel he's getting healed as I see plenty of improvement. His eyes are getting better too. My dog is 8 years old. I cannot stress how thankful I am to be educated about ACV. I now make this part of his daily or at least 2-3x a week habit to include ACV in his dish. Also, I forgot to mention, I give him plain yogurt twice a week and he luvs it! Thank you Earth Clinic!! :-)
EC: Fantastic feedback, thank you!
Arthritis
Posted by Heleen (Eastbourne, Uk) on 01/12/2010
Re arthritis, our black lab Max (11) was diagnosed with severe osteo arthritis and prescribed permanent anti inflammatories. We changed over to raw food diet, which he loves, he gets a homemade cooked vegetable mix with garlic (flea deterrent) ginger (anti inflammatory) and stinging nettles (joint health), cod liver oil and some seaweed. Within 2 weeks he was off the pain killers and when he started his acupucture I felt a bit of fraud for taking him. He has now been signed off for that as well. We are now 8 months on and he is able to run, almost keep up with our whippet pup and is brighter than ever and not a drug in sight. We put him back on ACV after reading this blog (I give it regularly to my chickens as an anti bacterial), just for general health. Mine take it in their drinking water and I have noticed they appear to be drinking more.
Bladder Infection
Posted by Brandismama (Pomona, California) on 11/25/2009
HELP ASAP! i dont know if my baby (1.5 yr old 36lb pitbull) has a bladder infection or not. my roomies were watching her for a week and a half and they told me shes starting to urinate and number 2 inside(dont know exatly how many days now), even when the back door is open. tonight i got home and she peed on my twise, probably with in 2 hours, and the carpet soon after. theres no blood and she doesnt seem to be in pain, shes cheery and everything but i cant tell theres something not right about her. is it a bladder infection??? or seperation anxiety for leaving her so long??? (shes very attatched to me, she was horribly abused befor i got her, shes my shadow, so could leaving leaving for a week and a half have affected her in this way?)
theres no blood, and shes doesnt seem to be having a hard time cus its a lot of urine, not whining, can walk. but shes urinating way more often then normal, and on the bed which has never happened.
please dont hastle me about not being a good moma by not taking her to the vet and coming on here for adivse, i love her very much like a daughter but i cant afford the bills or else i would.
is ACV highly recomended? please help me
Arthritis
Posted by Rita (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) on 11/18/2009
Re: dog's itching from environmental/food allergies: my dog absolutely will not drink water or eat food with ACV...I understand there are organic based ACV caplets. Could I use those instead? Would they be as effective as liquid ACV? Thankyou for your posts, everyone! Most helpful!
Black Skin
Posted by Itsybitsybug (Bowling Green, Ky) on 10/29/2009
This is in response to Jessica from Vincennes. Using a vet as a last resort is not necessarily a bad thing. The average pet owner, even one more inclined toward natural remedies will take their pet to the vet if it is necessary. But if it is a minor problem that can be solved without the use of a vet and all the meds and chemicals they tend to prescribe then why not try it. I treat my pets health the same way I treat mine. I would try a natural cure on myself before going to the doctor and getting drugs that would kill my immune system and I do the same with my pets and I personally feel that they and I are better for it. Natural remedies have been around a lot longer than modern medicine and many of them have proven themselves to be effective time and time again. They may not always work but it is definitely worth a try in situations where it is not a time sensitive life or death sort of situation. A dogs skin problems are typically not life or death situation.
General Feedback
Posted by Megan (Warner Robins, Ga) on 10/29/2009
★★★★★
For my 2 large dogs (over 50 & 100lb) the regular over the counter ACV worked for us. I had a bad flea infestation in the house and on both dogs. I was about ready to break down and fork over the boko bucks for frontline flea treatment--or get rid of the dogs. Fogging the house and generic flea treatments/baths was not working or I wasn't doing it enough. I found ACV for myself (the generic grocery store brand works for me as well) and was excited to read it could help with my flea problem as well. I gradually worked them up to a tablespoon a day the first week. I also sprayed them with a diluted mix of something like 1/4 cup in a large spray bottle full of water. I even think that is a bit much. I did bomb the house maybe 2 weeks before I started ACV for the dogs. It took about another 2 weeks for the fleas to clear up in the house, so a total of a month since the bombing. I have not been able to find a single flea on the dogs. I am excited to be flea free and for next to nothing. The last few days I maybe give the dogs the ACV every other day and spray about every other day. They are scratching at themselves less and seem overall to be much happier though they don't care much for the spray and love to roll around after to try and get it off--oh well....no fleas.
General Feedback
Posted by Heidi (Teeswater, Ontario Canada) on 10/23/2009
Please can someone tell me if it is organic Apple Cider Viniger or the plain ACV for my black lab of 7 years?
EC: Many people on this site report getting the best results with organic ACV!
Allergies
Posted by Wes (Kansas City, Mo) on 09/21/2009
Regarding Wendy from Naugatuck's comment - vinegar, or acetic acid, is in fact an (weak) acid. If your dog had a struvite crystal blockage, it was due to one of two things - improper diet or not enough water, more likely the former than the latter. Most big-brand foods are absolute garbage and contribute greatly to health problems due to them being nutritionally deficient. The ACV would have had nothing at all to do with the urine being too alkaline and thus developing crystals in the urethra, and in fact would have HELPED the situation by lowering the overall pH of the urine, making it more acidic.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Kelsirish1974 (Seattle, Wa, USA) on 09/02/2009
Something a bit off topic, but that is so often overlooked, is diet. While I am a huge believer in ACV and its myriad of benefits, nutrition is extremely important for your dog's health, as well. Almost all Veterinarians know absolutely nothing about nutrition for your dog. Treats like pupperoni are like giving your kids McDonald's everyday. (I know it is so hard to not sneak them a snack they love now and then:) There are a lot of great foods emerging now, though. They are not very much more expensive and your dog will truly get proper nutrition. Dogs that are malnourished are always hungry, just like people! Dog foods are not regulated at all and many bad things go into the foods they market to our best friends. If dogs are nourished well they may not need a "cure" like ACV or a visit to the Vet! I found this all out the hard way....I had a dog with severe allergies. I changed his food to a great quality food. It is a great gift to give our dogs...GOOD HEALTH! Thank you for letting me ramble about this topic for a moment. It is very close to my heart!
Allergies
Posted by Cmassi (New York, New York) on 08/12/2009
When you add an alkali to something that is acidic, the acidity decreases and the alkalinity increases. I would never, ever give my dog anything on a daily basis (for three months) that changed her body chemistry.
Since most vets are urged to recommend certain brands of food, they are not always the most reliable advisors on the subject. If you haven't already tried eliminating foods with soy, corn and wheat (one at a time) you might find the solution. Soy can cause allergies in animals and people - processed the way it is in the US, it is not a form we should be ingesting.
Have just used a 50/50 mixture of ACV and water applied very small amounts onto two hot spots and it gave my dog immediate relief. Tested a small area on one first to be sure it didn't burn or cause more discomfort than she already had. It has worked wonderfully to give immediate relief. I will see if she shows signs of discomfort before using any more. Thank you!!!
Allergies
Posted by Tilly (Ottumwa, Iowa) on 07/29/2009
I bathe my dogs every week!! One is 3 (Zuchon) and one is 6 (Schnoodle)...They have beautiful coats and NO skin problems....They love to be clean...I understand that you are a groomer and go by the book, but it is not always correct.....I use tepid water, good conditioner and let them air dry in warm weather... FYI.....
Measurements
Posted by Stacey (Calabasas, CA) on 07/29/2009
I want to have a supply of AVC and water solution on hand and ready when if I should need it for my two dogs. Can I buy the regular AVC, or should it be the organic AVC with the mother? Also, can I create a solution of this and store it in a cabinet, or does it need to be freshly mixed everytime I want to use it? I think my terrier mix stepped on something that stung his paw. I gave him a little Benadryl incase he had any allergies to the sting, but I also used AVC on it hoping that it would help, he didn't seem to like it as if it made it sting more? Does this sting the dog? He keeps licking his paw now and I am wondering what else I can do to help him heal. Any suggestion out there? - Thanks, Stacey
Allergies
Posted by Wendy (Naugatuck, CT) on 07/13/2009
★☆☆☆☆
My dog had some signs of allergies (runny eyes, flaky skin) that were not helped by the vet's suggestions, so I did a web search and found the "ACV for dogs" site. It sounded like a harmless and potentially helpful remedy, so I tried it. It didn't do a thing for the allergic symptoms, and 3 months later, my (spayed) dog developed a bloody discharge from her urinary tract. Lab tests diagnosed struvite crystals in her bladder, which, the vet said, form when the urine is too alkaline. Some research informed me that apple cider vinegar has an alkalinizing effect in the body! After immediate cessation of the apple cider vinegar and a month of a prescription urinary acidifier, my dog's urine is now testing normal. Naturally, after this experience, I do not recommend apple cider vinegar for dogs.
Ear and Eye Infections
Posted by Sean (Hawkeye, Iowa) on 06/24/2009
★★★★★
Simply Amazing. Our Dauchshound had bad eye gunk to the point he could not open his eyes. We were constantly using a warm wet wash cloth to clean them 5 plus times a day. Yesterday he just looked so depressed and was so tired. Found some spots he must have been biting at so we were concerned. We were going to call the vet again to make an emergency appointment in the morning. 2 Different vets have just given him eye medication previously but it never seemed to work. I found this site yesterday looking for what has worked for others. I ran straight out to the convienence store, bought some ACV and came back to the house. I put a half mixture of ACV and water in a spray bottle. I bathed him, then after his bath I spayed the mixture on him. I dipped his Pupperoni Stick that he loves so much in a 1/3 miture ACV to water and tried to feed it to him as his treat after his bath. He refused to eat it. I then dipped my fingers in the sollution and opened his mouth and driped a few drops into his mouth. Also BTW I did not dry him off after the bath i let him air dry in the ACV mixture.
The Very next morning he has NO EYE GUNK! His coat looks great, he is not itching, or biting anywhere! He is running around as happy as can be! And NO vet! As someone said before, sometimes a vet can't get your issue taken care of as we had found. It is not that we dont care enough to take them to the vet, BECAUSE WE HAVE, its because the Vets solution does not always work. If it did I would have never found this website. After 2 summers of seeing my dog suffer from allergies, I can finally say we found a solution and he is right as rain!
