As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friends, including treats that keep them both happy and healthy. Sometimes that is no easy feat considering their endless energy and love of chewing anything they can get their paws on! Providing our pups with an outlet for their need to chew is important – it relieves anxiety, burns energy, helps with teething, and satisfies their instinct to use those teeth!
Rawhide chews have long been a popular option, but they come with several hidden dangers that every pet owner should be aware of. This blog delves into the risks associated with rawhide and offers safer alternatives to keep your dog both entertained and safe.
What is Rawhide?
Rawhide chews are made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides. They are processed, cleaned, and then shaped into various forms such as bones, rolls, and twists. While they are marketed as a natural way for dogs to satisfy their chewing instincts, there are several significant risks associated with them that you might not be aware of.
What Are The Risks of Giving My Dog Rawhide?
Choking Hazards: One of the primary dangers of rawhide is the risk of choking. As dogs chew on rawhide, it can break into smaller pieces that can easily get lodged in their throat, causing choking or blockage. This risk is particularly high for aggressive chewers who tend to break off large chunks.
Intestinal Blockages and Digestive Issues: Rawhide does not break down easily in a dog’s stomach. If a dog swallows large pieces, it can lead to gastrointestinal blockages. This can cause severe health issues, including vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, surgical intervention to remove the obstruction.
Rawhide swells several times its size when wet, so it is possible that even smaller pieces can cause a blockage which can lead to severe abdominal pain, fluid loss and dehydration, intestinal rupture, infection, and even death.
Harmful Chemicals: The manufacturing process of rawhide chews often involves the use of chemicals to preserve and sanitize the hides. These chemicals can include bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and artificial flavors or colors. Consumption of these chemicals can be harmful to dogs, leading to gastrointestinal distress and other health problems.
Bacterial Contamination: Rawhide is not always processed under stringent sanitary conditions. This can result in contamination with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Dogs can become ill from these bacteria, and there is also a risk of these pathogens spreading to humans, particularly children who may handle the chews.
Allergic Reactions: Some dogs may have allergic reactions to the proteins in rawhide. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include itching, swelling, and gastrointestinal upset. If your dog shows any signs of allergic reaction, it is essential to stop giving them rawhide immediately and consult your veterinarian.
How Can I Determine What’s Best For My Dog?
It is important to remember that rawhide is not the only type of chew that could get your pup into trouble, and it is best to educate yourself (other others!) on the importance of choosing the right product for your dog.
Things to consider when choosing a chew, treat, or toy for your dog include:
Chewing Style: Some dogs take their time chewing, while other dogs like to inhale just about anything edible (or not) as quickly as possible! Many toys and chews will list the chewing style on the product packaging, usually as soft, moderate, or aggressive. Make sure you know what chewing style your dog has and select accordingly. (Rawhide is the most dangerous for aggressive chewers)
Size and Breed: Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and the size of their teeth, jaw, and throat are important to consider when determining the best product for chewing. It is a good idea to talk to your vet about what they recommend for your dog when considering their body type.
Health History: Dogs with a history of gastrointestinal issues should always avoid rawhide due to their lack of digestibility and exposure to harsh chemicals. It can also wreak havoc on a sensitive stomach, and dogs that are more susceptible to these issues are at a greater risk for acute pancreatitis. When choosing a chew or treat, make sure you consider digestibility and what your dog’s digestive system has reacted well to in the past.
Age: Puppies have different needs than an adult or senior dog. Teething puppies need softer chews that will protect and massage their delicate baby teeth, while adult dogs can handle harder chews that are designed for dental cleaning and mental stimulation. Senior dogs may have weakened muscle tone and bone structure in addition to sensitive gums and teeth that require soft chews. Hard chews such as rawhide may cause a jaw or tooth fracture.
Safer Alternatives to Rawhide
The more you pay attention to what your dog likes and needs, the easier it will be to find the safest product for your dog! Fortunately, there are several safer alternatives to rawhide that can satisfy your dog’s chewing needs such as:
Dental Chews: Specially designed dental chews can help clean your dog’s teeth while providing a safe chewing experience.
Rubber Chew Toys: Durable rubber toys like Kongs can be stuffed with treats or peanut butter to keep your dog engaged. They come in just about every shape and size you could imagine, and dogs love their texture for chewing. They are interactive, inexpensive, and very durable!
Bully sticks: Bully sticks are long-lasting, easily digestible, clean your dog’s teeth, and are an excellent source of protein. Conveniently, dogs love them too!
Antlers: Naturally shed antlers are a great option for the adult aggressive chewers. They are long-lasting, a natural source of minerals, and are unlikely to splinter.
Frozen Treats: Freeze carrots or other dog-safe vegetables for a crunchy and refreshing chew!
While rawhide chews may seem like a convenient treat for your dog, the potential risks often outweigh the benefits. Choking hazards, digestive blockages, chemical and bacterial contamination, and allergic reactions are all significant concerns. By choosing a safer alternative, you can ensure that your dog remains happy, healthy, and safe!
Always supervise your dog when they are chewing and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s diet or health. Your furry friend’s well-being is worth the extra effort to find the safest and healthiest options available!
Kamie Roth
Author