Do vets recommend rawhide?
Vets do not often recommend rawhide due to potential choking risks, low digestibility and because it sometimes contains unhealthy additives. Many vets now recommend rawhide alternatives for dogs instead, including long-lasting chews made from yak cheese, beef pizzle, meat jerky and more. Your vet can recommend good rawhide alternative chews and advise you on how to safely use them.
What are some safe alternatives to rawhide?
There are many safe alternatives to rawhide. Check out the many varieties of bully sticks or try a Himalayan yak cheese chew for your pup. Deer and elk antlers can make good, long-lasting rawhide alternatives, too. There are also many vegetable-based chews made to be long-lasting and easy to chew and digest. Ask your vet for safe rawhide alternative recommendations and be sure to only get chews that are the right size and shape for your pup.
Does it matter what size chew I get for my dog?
It does matter what size chew you get for your dog. The wrong size chew can present a serious choking hazard or cause dental or oral damage. Be sure to read the package for size and breed recommendations and always monitor your dog closely while he has a chew. Discard any chews that are damaged, splintered or broken immediately.
How do rawhide alternatives differ in chew time and durability?
Rawhide alternatives vary in how long they last. Hard options like antlers and yak cheese can be very long lasting while chews made from beef pizzle (bully sticks) or jerky also offer longer gnawing time depending on your dog's chewing style. Vegetable-based chews are made to be easy to chew and digest, so they may be finished faster.
Can I leave my dog alone with a rawhide alternative?
No, chews should not be given without supervision. Experts advise choosing the correct size and always watching your dog since the wrong size or a damaged chew can pose choking or dental risks. Read the package for size and breed guidance, and throw away any chew that becomes splintered or broken.