Is Rawhide Bad for Dogs? We Explore

Is rawhide bad for dogs? It’s an important question which is causing lots of discerning pet parents to seek alternative chews. The online discussion is causing consternation among pet parents, vets, and animal experts alike.

Many have removed it from their dog’s diet entirely, while some choose to keep it in but under close supervision.

Until recently rawhide had seemingly stood the test of time as one of the most popular ‘natural’ and long-lasting dog chew treats. Let’s look at the pros and cons before signing off on a conclusion.  

And before we do that, let’s answer this quick question.

What is rawhide?

As the name suggests, rawhide is made of natural raw animal hide. It’’s most often the hide of cows or horses but is also made from other animals like sheep and pigs.

The inside layer of the hide is dried and ground or cut before being pressed into the shape of dog chew toys. Some rawhide dog chew toys have additives like salt and bleach to make them longer lasting or add flavour.

Check out how rawhide is made:

Benefits of rawhide for dogs

Every pup parent knows that a teething puppy is no joke (read what to do about puppy teething). A chew toy can make a big difference to our puppy’s sense of wellbeing. Not to mention save our shoes. We also know once puppy grows up, that powerful urge to chew may calm down but it doesn’t stop.

Puppies and adult dogs chew to keep their teeth and gums healthy and strong. Chewing actively helps to prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar, which is why it’s imperative that we supply something for our dogs to chew on.

Rawhide was designed to be chewy, tasty and long-lasting. However, despite these benefits, safety may not have been part of the design process. Here’s why…

Rawhide dangers for dogs

Rawhide is extremely durable. Over time (and after much chewing), it breaks into smaller pieces that are soft and can be digested. However, this isn’t a given. The size of the pieces and how digestible they are vary depending on a dog’s chewing style.

A teething puppy or adult dog who’s in their prime are likely to chew more intensively than an older dog. And throughout a dog’s life, its chewing style will adjust according to its teeth, its size and its energy levels.

Perhaps you can guess what the dangers are…

• Choking hazard

Strong chewers can break off larger chunks of rawhide, which can quickly become a choking hazard. In some cases, this can be fatal. In non-fatal situations, there is still a fair amount of trauma for both pup and pet parent.

• Digestive blockage

If a dog manages to swallow a large chunk of rawhide, they run the real risk of it getting trapped in the oesophagus or the digestive tract. This may need to be surgically removed by a vet, often in an emergency surgery. The blockage can result in death if left unchecked.

• Digestive problems

The chemicals and artificial flavourings added to rawhide chews during manufacture often cause allergy and irritation. Some dogs are also allergic to the rawhide itself or bacteria in the product. Symptoms may include rashes, gastrointestinal irritation, bloating, and diarrhea.

Besides the dangers of rawhide, look out for these common household items that can be bad for pets.

Reduce rawhide risk

You can mitigate some of the risk by selecting an appropriately sized chew (read about the Dog Chew Awards for more in this regard). A large dog, for instance, mustn’t be given a tiny rawhide chew as this increases the risk of choking.

The onus, however, lies with the pet mum or dad to make a responsible decision. If you’re there to supervise your dog’s rawhide chewing and he or she suffers no side effects from their chew, it’s possibly ok from time to time.

However, if your pup is a heavy chewer, has a sensitive tummy or skin, or will be left unsupervised with his rawhide, it’s probably best to opt for a safer chew toy.

Rawhide alternatives

There are many safe alternatives to rawhide that will give your dog the same level (if not more) chew satisfaction.

Here are some options:

• Beef tendons. Rich in protein and collagen
• Kangaroo tendons. All natural and good for teeth and gums
• Fish skins. Packed with Omega 3 (best for small dogs)
• Deer antlers. Full of calcium and phosphorous

The great thing about these chews is that they provide both chewing stimulation and nutritional benefits. And they’re made and sold in Australia, which means fewer food miles in addition to fewer food dangers. Want to reduce your carbon pawprint further? Read about eco friendly dog food.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to supervise your pup when they have a chew toy of any kind.

Pet insurance offers an extra layer of protection

Regardless of which chew you choose, you may want to consider pet insurance. Then if your pooch has an accident – rawhide related or not – you can visit the vet without worrying about your pocket.