Can Dogs Eat Vinegar?

Were you adding balsamic to your salad or splashing some apple cider vinegar on your veggies, and your dog started giving you the “Just give me that!” look? They do have a knack for strong-smelling foods. Dogs have 300 million scent receptors in their noses, around 50-60 times more than humans. So, naturally, their curiosity must be asking for vinegar. It’s a good thing that you came here looking for some clarity before adding some of it to their food bowls though.

Luckily, vinegar is safe for your dog and can also benefit them. Terms and conditions apply though. If used in moderation and in the right way, distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work like medicine for your dog. Its potential benefits include – ⁽¹⁾

Don’t start sprinkling that apple cider vinegar in your kitchen all over your dog’s body and food already. As we mentioned above, there are some terms and conditions that apply here. Here are some potential risks that you need to keep in mind – ⁽¹⁾

If you spot any changes in your dog’s behavior or on their skin, you must immediately consult a vet. You should also stop using ACV as a cleaning product in your house. 

The advice here would be that, when adding a new item to your dog’s diet, always take it slow. One tablespoon of diluted, unfiltered and organic ACV per serving is the recommended quantity that is considered safe for dogs. Also remember, the smaller the dog, the smaller the quantity. 

After the first dose, you must wait and check for any reactions. If not, you can slowly and gradually start adding it to their diets and use it as a topical solution. Do consult a vet if you’re trying to use it as a medicine though. 

Can Dogs Eat Balsamic Vinegar?

While vinegar is usually considered safe for dogs, balsamic vinegar particularly is not so much. This is because it is made from grapes and grapes are considered toxic for dogs. Overconsumption of grapes can even lead to kidney failure and eventually death for dogs. 

Another reason for keeping your dog away from balsamic vinegar is its higher acid levels. It contains 6% acetic acid. If you remember the acidic reflux you get when something you eat is highly acidic, you will know why you should avoid this vinegar for your dog. Over and frequent consumption of highly acidic foods can cause stomach pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. ⁽²⁾

Can Dogs Eat Rice Vinegar?

Rice vinegar can be a safe vinegar option for your dog. However, it does contain high sugar levels. So, it should be given in moderation. Don’t forget to dilute the vinegar every time you feed them. ⁽³⁾

Can Dogs Eat Food with Vinegar?

It completely depends on the type of vinegar used in the food. If it’s ACV (apple cider vinegar), go ahead and feed some of it to your dog. However, red wine vinegar and balsamic vinegar should be avoided. Malt vinegar can be safe only if your dog does not have a gluten allergy. 

Do make sure that the vinegar is not in high quantity and is diluted though. And however safe ACV is for your dog, it is always better to wait to check if it causes any reaction. Not all dogs react to human foods in the same way. 

Can Dogs Eat Salt & Vinegar Chips?

We would never recommend salt and vinegar chips for your dog. The high salt levels can cause sodium poisoning in your dog which can be a pretty serious problem. There are much better snacking options available for your dog that are safe and vet-approved. 

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Some foods can be like a double-edged sword for dogs. They can provide benefits to your dog but if not given in the right quantity and manner, can cause equal or more harm to your dog. In some cases, the harm might be less but in others, it can be severe 

At such a time, worrying about your pet would be more important than worrying about all the medical bills. This is where pet health insurance helps. You can save up to 90% of all expenses and much more. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more. 

Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!