Adding raw, organic, unfiltered, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (ACV) to your pups diet has some health benefits that every dog owner should be aware of. First, always use organic ACV to avoid pesticides that can counteract the positive effects of any food humans or dogs can ingest.. Make sure it is unpasteurized so that the live enzymes which benefit your dog's gut health remain in the vinegar. It is the acidity and enzymes in ACV that helps your dog's stomach break down food more efficiently and give the benefits that promote a healthy gut. It helps balance your dog's pH levels, which has incredibly positive effects on their overall well being, such as a healthier gastrointestinal system, better coat quality, less allergy symptoms from reduced inflammation and more..
Studies show that ACV can help regulate blood sugar levels in dogs which can help prevent diabetic conditions in the future. It also contains acetic acid which can help reduce high lipid levels and high blood pressure, resulting in better heart health.
It has also been noted that ACV has antimicrobial properties, restricting growth of toxic bacteria in the gut like E. coli, staph and candida. Dogs on a raw diet can surely benefit from adding this to daily meals to help prevent infections caused by these bacteria.
When it comes to dogs that may be overweight, ACV can help reduce oxidative stresses that accompany an obese condition. It has been shown that a daily dose of ACV reduced oxidative stressors, thus lowering the risk of obesity related diseases.
Last and possibly most importantly, ACV can have an amazing impact on your dog's gut health. Nearly 90% of your dog's immune system is in the gut. This is why good gut health from a healthy diet is so important. Good gut health starts with the presence of probiotics, which are the good bacteria that live in your dogs GI tract. Prebiotics are what feed the good bacteria and help them work more efficiently. The fermentation process used for raw ACV makes it a very useful prebiotic, aiding in digestion and ultimately keeping your dog's gut healthy.
Never give apple cider vinegar to your dog undiluted. A good rule for feeding is to always mix it in with their food or water. As a guide per your dog's weight, they can be given:
1 tsp for dogs up to 15 lbs
2 tsp for dogs between 15-40 lbs
1 tbsp for 40 lbs and up
Always monitor your dog when adding any new supplement to their diet to be sure there are no negative reactions. If your dog exhibits side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, constipation or any other GI symptoms after ingesting ACV, you should have your dog's pH levels checked by your vet.
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