Is it safe to give my dog apple cider or apple cider vinegar?

Hello and thank you for your questions about Apple Cider Vinegar. Most people use the vinegar topically. They apply it to skin rashes, the under side of the feet or other areas of redness. Vinegar is an astringent so it will help remove pathogenic microbes on the skin and it also soothes the skin. Some people feed it to their dogs to acidify the GI tract but I don't think there's much value in that and thus I don't recommend it. Some people also use it the clean ears but again, I've seen problems when it stays in the ear and is not properly dried out. I think there are much better ear cleaners that are made for dogs and actually dry on their own or remove water within the ear. Some people also see a value in this for a flea repellent but once again, I don't think it works well and that there are much better products. So I don't recommend it for that purpose. Anytime you use the vinegar you want to mix it water in varying concentrations depending on the intended use. Always get the organic formula. For skin issues, I think it has benefits, I don't recommend to use it for the other listed properties. Be careful using it on open wounds, it can sting. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hello, I wouldn't recommend using apple cider vinegar in your cat's ear. Using a gentle ear wash made for pets is the best option for ear cleaning at home. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I do not recommend you add apple cider to Sadie's food, as it is unlikely to help her liver values and it could lead to gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea. See the link below for more information about liver values in dogs, as well as some supplements you can ask your vet about that may help: https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952533 https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951818

No, I do not recommend giving Joker apple cider vinegar. In healthy dogs, a small amount isn't going to cause any harm, but in dogs who currently aren't healthy, it can harmful effects. There also isn't any data that it's helpful to dogs who have bladder stones. As for the cranberry pills, again there's no proof they any beneficial effects on dogs and while it won't harm him, it won't help either. I would recommend making sure he drinks lots of water, and it's fine to add water to his food.

Hello. This will not hurt, but may not do much good. You might want to bathe the dog in cool water using one of the anti-itch shampoos carried by Petco. I like the Zymox line that uses a little hydrocortisone, but any shampoo/conditioner that has either hydrocortisone or Pramoxine will be suitable & should provide at least some temporary relief. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I would not recommend this as it could lead to an upset stomach when digested. I would recommend using the enzymatic products that are available for dogs. There are many out there and are well tolerated when ingested. Let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There isn't any concern for over-exposure to the vinegar or water, but I would recommend a different approach for flea control. That mixture will not control fleas. The best treatment is monthly flea prevention from your veterinarian, given every 30 days for at least 3 months. Products purchased over the counter and flea collars don't work. You must treat all the pets inside and outside your home. I would also recommend a product called Knockout Spray for inside the home. You need to focus on dark areas, like under furniture, and treat any hard floor surfaces as well. After the product dries, vacuum thoroughly and throw out the bag or clean out the canister if bag-less. Apple cider vinegar will not fix your flea problem, and will only prolong the discomfort to your pet. I know the products seem expensive, but they truly work and in the long run is cheaper if you follow the flea treatment steps. Good luck and kisses to Gracie!