Dogs need to chew. Chewing is beneficial, helping dogs self-soothe, ease teething pain, burn off steam, and get all-important mental stimulation. It’s also instinct, going hand-in-hand with the doggy lifestyle, but nobody wants their pup gnawing on the couch cushions. That’s why there are chew toys. Rawhide has been a popular option for decades, but is it safe for dogs?
Rawhide is readily available in pet stores and has been around for a long time, making it seem like a safe option for dogs. However, many vets and animal groups strongly advise against giving pups the leathery chew because of several risks. But what are these risks and does it mean that all rawhide is off the table?
What Is Rawhide for Dogs?
Rawhide chews are made from pieces of dried animal hides, usually cows and horses. If you thought it was some type of meat, you’re wrong. Instead, rawhides are basically the leftovers of the leather industry, taken from the inner layer of the hides.
Typically, the pieces are placed into high-salt brines to help slow down decay until the rawhides can undergo further processing. In some cases, chemicals may be used. The pieces are contorted into various shapes (like you see in all of the rawhide bins at the pet shops) and enhanced with yummy flavors like chicken or beef.
The Dangers of Rawhide Chews
Although rawhide chews certainly provide a solution for a dog’s need to chew, they aren’t the safest option. The ASPCA’s position on rawhide is to limit the amount your dog chews and ingests at any given time. Instead, they recommend considering durable alternatives made from nylon and other synthetic materials designed for aggressive chewers.
If you decide to give your dog rawhide, it’s important to know the potential hazards. Here are the four main risks that dogs face when they chew on rawhide.
1. Rawhides Can Be Choking Hazards
As dogs chew on rawhide, pieces eventually break off and get ingested. Unfortunately, if pieces are too large or go down the wrong way, they can get lodged in your dog’s throat. Choking is an especially likely risk for dogs who are aggressive chewers since more pieces tend to break apart.
It’s also likely for dogs to choke when they chew on rawhides that are too small. Therefore, choosing the appropriately-sized rawhide chew is vital if you plan to let your dog have one.
2. Your Dog Could Be Exposed to Toxic Chemicals
Unfortunately, even if you select the proper size rawhide and keep a vigilant eye on your dog they could still be in danger. In many cases, when rawhide chews are processed, various chemicals are used, like chromium salts.
The chemicals preserve the chews, enhance flavors, or add colors. But these chemicals could be unsavory things like formaldehyde and sodium sulfide. Rawhide produced in countries other than the US may also even contain traces of lead, arsenic, or strychnine.
To limit the amount of exposure your dog has to dangerous chemicals, rinse and dry rawhide chews before giving them to your dog. Washing the chew first won’t eliminate all traces of chemicals, but it will minimize the amount your dog comes in contact with. To limit the chances of exposure, look for high-quality chews made in the USA that don’t contain harmful chemicals.
Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to know precisely what’s in a rawhide chew. In these cases, your best bet is to avoid it and look for an alternative (more on this later). However, if you decide to give your dog the chew, monitor them closely to see if they start behaving strangely or showing any signs of illness.
3. Mouth Issues
Some dogs get pretty intense when they chew. Aggressive chewers could end up with several oral problems after chewing on rawhide. Possibilities include broken teeth, bleeding gums, and mouth sores.
Your dog’s dental health is critical to their overall well-being, so this is definitely not something you want to downplay. Take the rawhide away from your dog immediately if you notice any of these issues.
4. Rawhide May Lead to Digestive Issues for Your Dog
Rawhide doesn’t break down, meaning it can wreak havoc on your poor pup’s digestive system. Harmful chemicals can make your dog sick, causing diarrhea and vomiting. Large pieces of rawhide can lodge in your pet’s intestine or stomach causing a dangerous intestinal blockage.
Even small pieces that make it into your dog’s stomach can lead to blockages since they don’t dissolve. Instead, they swell in the stomach, move into the intestine and get stuck. If you suspect a blockage, it’s imperative to get your dog medical attention immediately. They’ll likely need surgery to remove the obstruction and prevent further damage or worse.
Signs of an intestinal blockage include gagging, low energy, constipation, fever, vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea, and visible signs of pain. It’s also smart to contact the vet if you notice your dog acting out of the ordinary after chewing rawhide.
Tips for Choosing the Best Rawhide for Dogs
Rawhide does tend to hold up to a lot of chewing, making it reasonably long-lasting. Therefore, some pet parents still decide to give it to their pups. If this is you, look for high-quality products made in the USA to help mitigate hazards.
Select the right size chew for your dog, steering clear of ones that are too small. Always supervise your dog during their chew fest. As pieces break off of the rawhide, pick them up and dispose of them so your dog can’t eat them. Likewise, when the chew gets too small, take it away and replace it.
Chewing Alternatives to Rawhide
To minimize your dog’s risk even further, skip the rawhide chews altogether and look for safe alternatives. A quick trip to the pet shop will win you tons of options for chewers of all types. Look for things like bully sticks, dental chews, nylon bones, or Kong toys.
Not only are these alternatives safer, but many offer additional benefits. For example, some bully sticks include healthy proteins and Omega-3s. Dental chews help reduce tartar buildup, massage gums, and freshen bad breath. Many synthetic options provide mental stimulation and act as boredom busters while also helping combat plaque.
To Chew or Not to Chew? That’s the Rawhide Question
No matter how you decide to let your dog satisfy their need to chew, always watch them closely. Don’t leave your dog unattended with any kind of chew toy, rawhide or otherwise. Rawhide has several risks, including choking, intestinal blockages, and exposure to toxins.
However, even other chew alternatives can pose risks, especially choking, if you don’t keep an eye on your dog. If you’re unsure what the best chew is for your dog and their specific chewing needs, discuss options with your vet. For dogs that aren’t big chewers, you might find a licking mat satisfies their needs for self-soothing and mental stimulation.
For more helpful tips on keeping your dog happy and healthy, check out the rest of the Neater Pets blog. It’s all about prioritizing your pup’s well-being so you continue to enjoy many special times together.