What to Feed Your Dog to Ward Off Mites?

Mites are tiny parasites that can be maddening for dogs, causing intense itching in the ears, which can migrate to the back, neck and tail areas. Mite infestation is often due to low immunities caused by malnutrition. Help build a healthy canine immune system through proper nutrition, including omega fatty acids, nutrient-rich herbs, apple cider vinegar, vitamins and minerals.

  1. Omega Fatty Acids

    • Omega fatty acids boost a dog's immune system and help fight infection by reducing inflammation, and improving digestion and energy production. Good sources of omega fatty acids include cod-liver oil, flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil. Omega-6 fatty acids, such as evening primrose oil, are the most effective, followed by omega-3 fatty acids, including flaxseed and fish oils. Freshwater or boneless fish are another good source of fish oils, but avoid swordfish, tuna and other fish that are high in mercury.

    Herbs and Vegetables

    • Parsley is full of vitamin C for maintaining a healthy canine immune system.

      Raw, finely chopped, leafy green vegetables, full of phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals, can be added to a dog's diet to strengthen its immune system and ward off mites. Parsley, turnip greens, collards and other dark green leafy vegetables are high in nutrients and antioxidants, providing dogs with a large supply of calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. Herbs such as grapefruit seed extract, milk thistle, burdock root and echinacea can also be given to help prevent infection. Do not feed onions or raw potatoes to a dog as they are toxic to its digestive system.

    Apple Cider Vinegar

    • Raw, organic apple cider vinegar has excellent antifungal and antibacterial properties and is a powerful detoxifier, improving organ function to boost the immune system. Add a splash to the dog's drinking water or mixed in with its food; 1 tablespoon for medium to large dogs, or 1 teaspoon for dogs under 15 pounds. Use only unpasteurized and unfiltered apple cider vinegar with five to six percent acidity. Do not use commercially distilled vinegar as it has none of the health benefits.

    Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

    • Vitamin C, a powerful antiviral and antibiotic, is essential for strengthening a dog's immune function and improving its resistance to pests. Feed 125 mg twice daily to small dogs; 250 mg twice daily for medium dogs; and 1,000 mg twice daily for large dogs. Zinc supplements improve a dog's immunity to mite infestation and decrease its risk of infection by promoting wound healing and the development of white blood cells. Other vitamins and mineral supplements that benefit a dog's resistance to pests include selenium, vitamin E, vitamin B complex, folic acid, magnesium, biotin and potassium.