How much vinegar can I give my dog?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

When it comes to giving your dog vinegar, it’s important to use it in moderation. The general guideline is to use no more than one tablespoon per 50 pounds of bodyweight. So, if your dog weighs 50 pounds, you can give them one tablespoon of vinegar. If your dog weighs 100 pounds, you can give them two tablespoons, and so on.

However, it’s important to note that vinegar should not be given to your dog every day. Limit your use to twice a week to avoid any potential negative effects. Using vinegar too frequently can disrupt the natural pH balance in your dog’s body and may cause digestive issues.

If your dog doesn’t like the strong flavor of vinegar, you can try reducing the amount. Instead of one tablespoon per 50 pounds, you can use one teaspoon per 50 pounds. This can make the taste more palatable for your dog while still providing some of the potential benefits.

Another option is to incorporate vinegar into homemade dog treats. You can find various recipes online that include vinegar as an ingredient. By cooking the vinegar into the treats, the flavor is often less pronounced, and your dog may enjoy it more.

Alternatively, you can stir some vinegar into your dog’s fresh meals. This can be especially beneficial if you feed your dog a homemade or raw diet. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your dog’s weight and follow the guidelines mentioned earlier.

I personally have used vinegar with my own dogs in the past. One of my dogs had occasional digestive issues, and I found that adding a small amount of vinegar to her meals helped alleviate some of her symptoms. However, I always made sure to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the frequency of use.

To summarize, when giving vinegar to your dog, use no more than one tablespoon per 50 pounds of bodyweight and limit your use to twice a week. If your dog dislikes the taste, you can try reducing the amount, cooking it into homemade treats, or adding it to their fresh meals. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health routine.