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Puppy vaginitis: Is cranberry powder effective or should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 1 month and 27 days old | 15 lbs

My 8 wk old puppy has puppy vaginitis. I was told by the breeder to use cranberry powder, which I purchased at a vitamin shop. It is 500mg per tbsp. can you tell me how much to use & how often? I have been giving it in her raw twice a day for 2 days now.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 21, 2017

People typically give it at 400 mg per 20 pounds of body weight each day. If she hasn't been examined by a vet then she should be to confirm that she has vaginitis and then recommend a treatment plan. She may need an antibiotic to treat an infection. She probably also needs vaccines and a dewormer so please call your vet and schedule an appointment.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Sabina Snyder, Specialty Surgery Technician
Veterinary Technician
While it is true that cranberries help all of us (People and pets alike) with urinary tract infections) it is only raw cranberries and pure cranberry juice that is helpful. Dried cranberries contain preservatives and other unwanted things like sugar that don't do your pet any good. That being said, your puppy doesn't have a UTI. Your puppy has Vaginitis. These are two very different things and should be treated very differently.
Vaginitis is inflammation of the vagina. Symptoms of vaginitis include vaginal pain or discomfort, itching, discharge, and odor.
This has nothing to do with the urinary tract. Cranberry is not going to help. This is also why I caution owners STRONGLY against taking medical advice from breeder. Your veterinarian spent many... MANY years at Vet school. Please trust their medical advice. Your breeder did NOT go to Veterinary school. It may be true that they love the puppies they send home and are very invested in them, but they do not always know best when it comes to the medical care they need.
That being said, your puppy likely needs antibiotics to clear up the vaginitis and your vet should take a look. Good luck and I hope she feels better soon! :)
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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