If you’ve been living under a rock for the last few years, you may not of heard just how bad rawhide is for your furry canine friend. (Rawhide is basically the inner skin of a cow or some other animal that has been stripped of flesh and hair by nasty chemicals. Then it’s either used whole or chopped into tiny pieces to make a dog chew. Nice, heh?)
So what are the main problems with rawhides? Most rawhide chews are hard to digest and can get stuck in your dog’s stomach for months, causing all kinds of trouble like vomiting, diarrhea, or even life-threatening blockages. Not to mention the risk of choking on them. And, don’t forget, the toxic chemicals used in the production of the rawhides can harm your dog’s health.
So we have a dilemma - dogs love to chew on bones. It’s in their DNA. Chewing helps them keep their teeth and gums clean and healthy. It also makes them happy and relaxed, because chewing is, well, what dogs do.
What can you give your dog instead of rawhide? Glad you asked!
Here are our top seven (safe) alternatives to rawhide:
Antlers: Antlers are natural chews that come from deer and elk. They are rich in minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, and manganese. They are also very durable and can last for a long time. Antlers can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and fresh by scraping off plaque and tartar. You can buy antlers online or from pet stores. However, you should always supervise your dog when chewing antlers and take them away if they become too small or splintered.
Sweet Potato Chews: Sweet potato chews are easy to make at home and are a great source of fiber and antioxidants for your dog. They also contain vitamins A, B, C, manganese, and potassium. To make sweet potato chews, you just need to slice some sweet potatoes thinly and bake them in the oven until they are dried out2. The rough edges of the chews can help clean your dog’s teeth and gums. You can also add some flavor by sprinkling some cinnamon or turmeric on the slices before baking.
Frozen Carrots: Frozen carrots are another simple and healthy alternative to rawhide chews. Carrots are low in calories and fat, but high in vitamin A and lutein, which support your dog’s eye health. Freezing the carrots makes them harder and more challenging to chew, which can satisfy your dog’s natural urge to gnaw. You can also freeze other fruits and vegetables such as pumpkin, banana, apple, or cucumber for variety.
Raw Bones: Raw bones are a classic chew for dogs that provide many benefits. They are full of nutrients such as protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, and collagen. They also stimulate your dog’s jaw muscles and help remove plaque and tartar from their teeth. You should choose raw bones from large animals such as cows or bison, such as hip or femur bones, which have marrow inside4. You should avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause injuries or blockages. You should also monitor your dog when chewing bones and discard any fragments that could be swallowed.
Yak’s Milk Chews: Yak’s milk chews are a unique and tasty alternative to rawhide chews. They are made from an ancient recipe of yak’s milk cheese that originated in the Himalayas. They are hard enough to last for a long time, but soft enough to prevent tooth damage. They are also easily digestible and contain protein, calcium, iron, and magnesium. You can find yak’s milk chews online or in pet stores. You can also microwave the small pieces that remain after your dog has chewed them to make them into puffy treats.
Coconut Chews: Coconut chews are made from dried coconut meat that is sliced into thin strips. They are high in fiber, healthy fats, and lauric acid, which can boost your dog’s immune system and fight infections. They are also low in protein and carbohydrates, which makes them suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. Coconut chews are soft and chewy, which can help massage your dog’s gums and prevent bad breath. You can buy coconut chews online or from pet stores. You can also make your own by dehydrating fresh coconut meat in the oven or a dehydrator.
Trachea Chews: If you’re looking for a long-lasting and hollow chew for your dog, you might want to try trachea chews, also known as “moo tubes”. They are made from the windpipe of a cow or a lamb, and they are very tasty and healthy for your dog. Trachea chews are fully digestible, unlike rawhide, and they also have natural glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help your dog’s joints stay strong and flexible. Trachea chews are a great way to keep your dog busy and happy.
I hope this article helps you find some safe and healthy alternatives to rawhide chews for your dog. Remember, always supervise your dog when giving them any kind of chew and provide plenty of fresh water. Happy chewing! 😊
