Rawhide chews may be one of the best options for dog owners. It is seen as an excellent solution for improving your dog’s dental health since it’s natural and long-lasting. However, many pet parents are asking the question, “Is rawhide safe for dogs?” Understandably, the safety of their dogs is always a priority, and you may be asking this same question.
Rawhide may get its share of mixed sentiments even today. You can decide that your dog can use it for the usual benefits, or you can consider other alternatives that are safer for them (and something you can be comfortable with buying for the long term).
What Is Rawhide?
Rawhide is made from the inner layer of animal hides, particularly cow or horse hide (hence the name). It is a chewing product that can be processed into long and tough strips. From there, they are designed into different shapes, such as twists, braids, bones, and sticks. During the manufacturing process, hides are cleaned, cut, and dried. Some of them may be flavored with chicken or beef to increase their appeal.
One thing to know is that rawhide is not fully digestible, meaning that safety concerns are possible for dogs, especially if they are smaller breeds.
Why Do People Give Rawhide to Dogs?
Rawhide is a chew toy for the most part. Some may give it to their dog as a treat. Nevertheless, there are a few reasons why pet parents may give it to them, including:
- Satisfies a dog’s natural chewing instinct
- Excellent for dental hygiene, especially when scraping off plaque
- Keeps dogs busy and calm during certain situations, such as crate time or times when anxiety can trigger them (except for when they are left alone, which can be a safety issue)
- Provide mental stimulation and ward off boredom
Giving rawhide to dogs responsibly can be great for engagement purposes. However, it may not be a good idea to give them rawhide if they are going to be left alone. This may lead to possible safety hazards such as choking or accidental ingestion.
What Are the Benefits of Rawhide for Dogs?
Rawhide does have great benefits if used properly and in moderation. These include the following:
- Dental Health: This can be great for dogs and their dental health, especially when you want their teeth to remain free from plaque while also keeping gum issues to a minimum. Don’t be surprised if they have a much fresher breath over time and fewer dental issues.
- Behavior Management: Boredom and anxiety can lead to destructive chewing. Don’t let the most precious things you own be the one thing they target. Instead, a chewable rawhide that lasts a long time can be excellent for them to chew on as opposed to furniture and other objects that are not safe to digest.
- Natural Chewing Outlet: Puppies that are teething may also benefit from rawhide. So can adult dogs with a strong chewing instinct.
What Are the Risks of Rawhide for Dogs
Of course, there is the other side of the answer to the question, “Is rawhide safe for dogs?” Some risks pet parents like you need to know about, even before you purchase rawhide. Here’s what you need to be aware of:
Choking and Blockages
Yes, let’s address the biggest risk of them all upfront. Dogs can chew rawhide into small pieces. It can get to a point where the last part may be swallowed whole. Here’s where things can get quite scary: rawhide is not easily broken down by your dog’s digestive system. For these reasons, it can lead to issues such as:
- Choking
- Blockage of the esophagus
- Intestinal obstructions that might require surgery
The risk is much higher in small dogs or fast eaters. As such, it further proves the reason why supervision is a must when your dog is using rawhide.
Digestive Upset
As mentioned, rawhide is not fully digestible. The pieces may end up in the stomach and can sit there, causing all kinds of digestive issues. It can include vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. It can also be worse for dogs that already deal with a sensitive stomach.
Chemical Exposure
Rawhide is typically treated with bleach, dyes, preservatives, or artificial flavorings throughout the manufacturing process. Low-quality rawhide products that are made overseas can contain chemicals that are toxic to dogs. Such exposure can lead to serious illnesses and possibly death.
Bacterial Contamination
Since rawhide is a raw animal product, the potential for bacterial exposure is possible, especially when it’s bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella. It can be a risk for both dogs and humans alike. That is why it is important to make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after every time you touch the rawhide, whether it’s giving it to a dog or returning it to storage.
Can I Give Rawhide to Puppies?
No. Puppies have smaller mouths and tend to be aggressive chewers. However, their digestive systems are not fully formed compared to adult dogs. For this reason, it can pose a massive risk for puppies. While some veterinarians may approve rawhide for puppy use, it’s better to err on the side of caution and consider safer alternatives for puppies that are teething or chewing.
How to Safely Use Rawhide for Dogs
If you give your dog rawhide, it is always best to follow these tips to reduce any potential safety risks. Here’s a look at what we think should be the best approach for rawhide use for your dog:
Choose High-Quality, Natural Rawhide
If you wish to give your dog rawhide, it has to be high-quality and natural. You’ll want to closely inspect the label and look for certain things, including the origin of where it’s made. For example, if it's made in the USA or Canada, that’s a good option. Avoid any rawhide products made overseas.
Make sure that they are labeled as natural or single-ingredient. Finally, make sure they are free of any dyes, bleaches, or artificial chemicals.
Monitor Chew Sessions Closely
Always supervise your dog while they are using rawhide. If it’s small enough to swallow whole, take it away from them and dispose of it properly. As a rule of thumb, it should be around the size of their paw as an indicator of when to remove it out of their reach.
Limit Frequency
At best, rawhide should be given on occasions like a treat. Allow at least one or two chews weekly.
Match the Size to the Chewer
Smaller dogs can use rawhide chews that are smaller and thinner in size. Contrast that with larger dogs and power chewers, who will find that thick, durable options are better for them while also being unable to break off large pieces.
What Are Some Safer Alternatives to Rawhide?
Understandably, you may be a pet parent who may not want to allow your dog to use rawhide. As such, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from, including:
- Bully Sticks: Like rawhide, these are single-ingredient chewables. The only difference is that these are digestible. Nevertheless, they are great for dogs who want to satisfy their chewing instincts. However, supervision is still needed when these are used.
- Collagen Chews: These can be excellent for joint and skin health. Under the Weather has Collagen Chews that can be given as a daily thing. While not as chew toy-ish as rawhide, it’s safe to consume.
- Dental Chews: If you hold your dog’s dental health to a high priority, these dental chews will be excellent for cleaning their teeth and freshening breath. The best part is that there are no choking risks.
- Rubber or Nylon Chew Toys: These toys are durable and reusable. Some of them can also be filled with healthy treats or frozen peanut butter. If you are looking for something that will provide for a long time of entertainment for your dogs, this might be it.
Just because rawhide is generally safe for dogs, it doesn’t mean it’s something you don’t have to give to them. These alternatives just might be better for you in terms of peace of mind. Besides, rawhide isn’t the only thing that can help satisfy a dog’s chewing instincts (albeit safely).
Final Thoughts
Now that you have an idea about rawhide and whether it’s safe for dogs or not, the ball is now in your court. You can decide if it’s the best option for your dog in particular. Otherwise, there may be other options that they can use. We encourage you to make the right decision based on what you believe is best for your dog. Speaking of which, we invite you to check out what Under the Weather has in stock for your dog’s nutritional needs. Don’t miss out on what we’ve got right now.
