Dangers of Giving Your Dog Rawhide
Rawhide treats are very popular for dogs, many owners opting for these over other alternatives due to convenience & cost and not knowing the risk associated with these treats. They are seen as a perfect solution to entertain your pooch for long period of time. Rawhide treats may seem like the perfect solution for puppies that like to chew, and boisterous dogs with lots of energy. However, there are many dangers of giving your dog rawhide that you may not be aware of:
You may use rawhide chews to keep your dog out of trouble when you aren't home. However, most chews actually warn you not to give them to your dog unsupervised. As the dog chews the rawhide and bites pieces off, it can become a choking hazard. The pieces can become lodged in the throat and block their airway. It can also become lodged in their digestive tract. This can lead to expensive surgeries or even death.
Rawhide treats are made from the inner layer of hide from horses or cows. The hide is cut or ground up, and then pressed into different shapes. Sometimes flavoring is added to make them more appealing. This material is extremely hard to digest. If the ingest too much rawhide, it can cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea.
Rawhide can swell up to four times its original size in your dog’s stomach, risking the formation of life threatening blockages
Dogs can and will chew off and swallow large pieces of rawhide which can get stuck in their esophagus, stomach or intestines. This often requires surgical removal
Most people aren't aware of the dangerous contaminants that can be hidden in rawhide chews. The problem is that many of these chews are manufactured outside of the U.S., where there are fewer regulations about contamination. Rawhide chews have been found to contain antibiotics, insecticides, and even arsenic. These can all be very harmful to your dog. They can cause symptoms like dehydration, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Bacteria can also grow on the chew. When your dog chews on it, they can ingest this harmful bacteria and become sick.
There are a few healthy alternatives to rawhide.
Antlers: These are from elk or deer. They won’t splinter or create much odor, and they have nooks and crannies that really help get your dog’s teeth clean. Be sure to get the naturally-shed ones for extra kindness!
Chewroot: Harvested by hand from tree roots, in protected areas to ensure there is no damage to the roots system of the tree’s or forests, only the tuber of the root is harvested which then sprouts again, making them eco-sustainable.
- Natural Toothbrush, - Will Not Splinter, - Extremely Durable, - Long Lasting - 100% Untreated, - Suitable For All dogs – Including Puppies
Coffee Wood: these are made from branch’s from the coffee bean plant. These are harvested, annually, from managed stock does not splinter, which is why it is such a good choice of wood chew for dogs. These are not processed in any way, simply graded, dried and sanded, to give a healthy, safe and satisfying chew for any dog.Natural, ethical, sustainable.
Smart Bones: are made from healthy ingredients outer layer is made of wholesome, real vegetables including sweet potatoes, peas and carrots. This delicious outer layer is combined with an irresistible inner layer made of chicken, for a scrumptious taste dogs can’t resist! These are also easy to digest, which means that they will very seldom cause an upset stomach or loose stool. SmartBones even exceed the digestibility level of most dog foods.
Kong: These are the rubber oblong toys that you can be stuffed with treats and various spreads to keep your dog occupied and chewing for hours! They are billed as being indestructible, so there are no concerns about choking or digestion (except for whatever you put in it).
Marrow Bones: These are femurs or hip bones that are thick and filled with marrow. Keep them in the freezer, and then offer one to your dog with supervision. Just beware: they are really messy!
Rawhide may be convenient, but it isn't worth risking your dog's health and safety.
