Is apple cider vinegar a safe home remedy for my dog's ear issues?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
I believe my dog might have ear mites oh, and I am wanting to try natural at home remedies before I try putting any medicines in his ear. I am wanting to know if it would be safe and effective to use an apple cider vinegar wash, which would be half apple cider vinegar and half warm water
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 2nd, 2019
No, I don't recommend to use this wash. Ear mites will not be killed by a vinegar wash. Also, dogs can get ear mites, but it is rare. https://www.petcoach.co/article/4-myths-about-dog-ear-infections/ Dogs most commonly get bacterial or yeast infections in the ears. Here is a link about ear mites just in case: https://www.petcoach.co/article/ear-mites/ Ear infection (yeast, bacterial and mites) can get worse quickly and they can become painful. I recommend instead to have the ears examined and tested. Then you will know what type of infection is present and your pet will get the appropriate and the best care. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
5Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 17th, 2019
Peroxide should not be used to clean ears since it can sting. Water in a dark, warm ear canal can promote bacterial and/or fungal growth, so it shouldn't be used either. Apple cider vinegar likely won't resolve infection if that's what she has. You may need an antibiotic or antifungal. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian. A swab of the ear can be examined under a microscope to diagnose the type of infection. Afterwards, your vet can dispense the appropriate medication. You can use an ear cleaner, such as Epi-Otic, to clean her ears.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 21st, 2017
Licking of the ears often causes a yeast infection to develop. Vinegar rinse has been tried as a anecdotal treatment for infected ears; however, this will likely respond best to ear medicaitons and cleanser from your vet. I would recommend scheduling an appt soon to have the ears checked, an ear cytology done to determine what type of infection is present, and the appropriate medication prescribed. I hope Rica gets her ears resolved soon.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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