Skip to content

Yes, it is safe for dogs to eat vinegar in moderation. In fact, vinegar can be an excellent natural remedy when it comes to skin conditions like hot spots, fleas, ticks, itching, ear infection, and aching muscles in dogs. However, it would be wise to take precautions and consult your vet before adding vinegar to your dog’s diet.

Vinegar
safe icon
safe

Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Safe to eat in moderation
Nutritional Value Natural enzymes, healthy bacteria, pH neutralization
Potential Risks Stomach problems, organs damage, dry skin, skin irritation, diarrhea
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How Much Vinegar Is Safe for Dogs?

Dogs can consume apple cider vinegar (ACV) or distilled white vinegar as long as you feed it sparingly. Anything over two tablespoons daily can cause various side effects, especially if your dog is allergic to vinegar.

What Happens if Your Dog Eats Too Much Vinegar?

Vinegar should not be overfed to dogs with kidney illness or other conditions that can cause their bodies’ pH to rise above normal levels. This is because such increased acidity levels could worsen the condition of their internal organs, leading to organ failure in the long term.

Furthermore, dogs with sensitive digestive systems cannot process vinegar. This can upset their stomach and cause diarrhea and vomiting.

How to Feed Vinegar to Dogs

One tablespoon of diluted vinegar can be given to your canine in their water bowl or mixed into their kibble. However, don’t forget there is always the chance your dog might be allergic to vinegar.

Common Vinegar Ingredients

  • Acetic acid-Acetic acid makes up around 95 percent of vinegar. This compound is safe for dogs in moderation.
  • Water-Water is excellent for dogs as it keeps them hydrated during hot summer days.
  • Flavorings-Some flavoring might be toxic for dogs. However, flavorings found in vinegar are typically safe for pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • While vinegar isn’t toxic for dogs, your canine companion might not like its taste. The strong smell might put off your dog.

  • Yes, vinegar is safe for dogs in moderation. However, some dogs can be allergic to vinegar, so it’s best to visit your vet before adding any new human food to your dog’s diet.

  • You don’t need to be alarmed if your dog has too much vinegar. However, some dogs have sensitive stomachs, and giving them too much vinegar can cause diarrhea or vomiting.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.