Rawhide Alternatives for Dogs

The truth is out about the dangers of rawhide chews, and the search is on for the safest, healthiest, and best rawhide alternatives for dogs.

But with so many dog chews at pet stores and online retailers, it’s difficult to know if rawhide alternatives are any safer—or merely pose the same risks in a new shape or flavor.

Choosing the best rawhide alternatives for dogs requires a closer look at what makes rawhide so bad, and why dogs chew and how it can benefit them. As pet parents, we need to take a closer look at a comparison of popular rawhide alternatives.

Let’s dive in so you can confidently “chews” the best for your best friend!

Rawhide risks

Rawhide bones and chews are often sold in cute shapes and packages. But don’t be fooled—the dangers in these popular chews can be scary, costly, and in some cases, deadly.

While rawhide-related dangers can be different for each dog, rawhide’s most concerning risks include:

• Choking — Rawhide chews are a known choking hazard, especially when dogs try to swallow large pieces. Rawhide chunks can get stuck in a dog’s throat and prevent breathing.
• Poor digestibility — While small rawhide pieces may pass through a dog’s digestive tract without harm, large chunks can take a long time to break down.
• Blockages — Large rawhide pieces can get stuck along the digestive tract, in the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. This can be life-threatening and require emergency surgery.
• Bad ingredients — Many rawhide dog treats are made outside the USA and with harmful chemicals, preservatives, and additives.

Understanding why dogs chew

Chewing is a natural dog behavior. It surprises many pet parents to learn that appropriate chewing has mental and physical health benefits for dogs, including reduced stress and better dental health.

So what drives a dog to chew? Motivations may include:

• Teething — Puppies chew to relieve pain as their adult teeth replace they milk teeth.
• Boredom — Dogs who don’t get enough exercise may use chewing to burn off energy.
• Stress relief — Chewing is a self-soothing activity that stimulates ‘feel good’ hormones. Anxious or nervous dogs may chew to reduce stress or fear.
• Hunger — Dogs may chew because they like the taste of an item or they are hungry.

How dogs chew

Unlike humans, a dog’s jaw does not move side-to-side, only up and down. This prevents them from grinding their food into small bites.

This, along with the sharp, pointy shape of dog’s teeth, make them good at ripping and tearing but bad at thoroughly chewing their dog food. This is one reason why certain teeth, such as the large premolars, commonly break when dogs chew on hard bones or antlers.

Considerations for selecting a rawhide alternative

Now that you know why and how dogs chew, you can use this knowledge to shop for the best rawhide alternative. Keep the following things in mind as you research potential treats:

Safety

Safety is the most important factor in choosing a rawhide alternative. Chewing should be rewarding, not risky! Look for products that are the right size for your dog, free from unusual additives or preservatives, and sourced responsibly in the USA or other countries with similar standards.

Life stage

If your dog is a teething puppy or a senior, they may need a softer chew that is gentle on their gums and easy to digest.

Behavior

Does your dog chew when they are stressed or bored? If your dog chews frequently or on the wrong things, training or more exercise may be a better solution. Try spending more time together before adding extra calories to your dog’s diet.

Chewing style

Aggressive chewers may need denser chews or those that come in challenging shapes, while light chewers may prefer something that crumbles or is soft, like a jerky treat stick.

Health benefits

Many limited or single-ingredient chews have natural nutrients such as collagen or calcium for bone and joint health, while dental chews can help clean teeth.

Size

Small chews are a choking hazard for large dogs, while chews that are too big can frustrate or injure small dogs. Think about your dog’s mouth, weight, and chewing style to choose the best fit. If your small dog is a heavy chewer, a larger chew may be the best bet.

Ingredients, Allergies, and Health

Look for chews with recognizable ingredients or single-ingredient treats. Avoid chews with artificial colors or flavorings. This is an easy way to avoid potentially harmful preservatives and additives.

If your dog has allergies or a sensitive stomach, you’ll need to be careful about what chews you use. Look carefully at the ingredient list to confirm the chew’s origin. For example, collagen chews can be beef, chicken, or fish—and any other requirements, such as grain-free or gluten-free.

An overview of rawhide alternatives for dogs

Every dog is unique, making it impossible to name one chew as the safest or best rawhide alternative for every dog. Instead, you’ll need to make this decision for yourself using advice from your veterinarian and the information in this article.

Considerations of different chews

Here’s a brief look at the most popular rawhide alternatives for dogs.

• Rawhide-free chews — These pressed treats may look like rawhide, but contain no hide. Instead, these rawhide-free options make up highly digestible ingredients like rice flour, glycerin, gelatin, and agar-agar.
• No-Hide® Chews — No-Hide® Chews made by Earth Animal are a popular rawhide-free chew that looks like rolled rawhide and provides the same long-lasting experience without the harmful ingredients.
• Dental chews — Dental chews are flexible and textured so that they scrub your dog’s teeth as they gnaw. Note that dental chews don’t replace the need for routine veterinary dental care.
• Veggies — Vegetables provide a nutrient-packed chew experience for dogs. Try giving your dog a baked or dehydrated sweet potato slice or a frozen carrot soaked in low-sodium bone broth.
• Himalayan chews — Also known as yak cheese chews, Himalayan chews are high-protein natural chews of 100% yak or cow’s milk. They are dense, which makes them long-lasting, but their hard texture may make them less appealing for light chewers and senior dogs.
• Pig ears — Dogs may love these greasy, single-ingredient treats but veterinarians do not recommend them. Pig ears are high in fat and can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, a dangerous condition that requires hospitalization.
• Bully sticks — Bully sticks are a long-lasting, low mess, natural chew that dogs love. However, these treats are high in calories so watch your dog’s weight! Also, although bully sticks are digestible, small pieces or ends are a choking hazard and can lead to blockages.
• Elk antlers — While antlers are a long-lasting chew that won’t splinter like other animal-based options, their pointy nature and hard texture can make them a dangerous choice. Antlers can puncture oral tissue and are a common cause for painful dental fractures.
• Collagen — Although collagen chews are a hide product, they’re made from a layer that is more flexible and easier to digest. Collagen chews are a high protein, low-fat treat with natural skin, coat, and joint benefits.
• Chew toys — Pet-safe rubber chew toys can be a stimulating choice for dogs who love to gnaw and fetch. Fill hollow toys with food or treats and sealed with xylitol-free peanut butter for long-lasting fun. Freeze them for an added challenge.

Quick tips for safer chewing

No matter which rawhide alternative you choose, there is always some risk of choking or injury. Fortunately, you can avoid many of these dangers by paying close attention to your dog, their behavior, and their chewing needs.

Our top tips for a safer chewing experience include:

Supervising your dog

Don’t leave your dog alone with a chew toy. Instead, stay nearby and monitor their behavior, comfort, and progress. This will allow you to quickly step in to assist or remove the toy. Continue to observe your dog after they’re done chewing. Watch for any unusual behavior or health changes such as digestive upset or discomfort. Notify your vet with any concerns.

Separating dogs

Chews can be a valuable resource between dogs and can cause tension or fights. Keep the peace by giving each dog their own chew and a quiet space—like a crate or pen—to enjoy it.

Inspecting chews after use

Discard chews that are too small, sharp, or otherwise damaged.

Use a chew holder

Long, skinny chews such as bully sticks can be secured in a chew holder to prevent your dog from swallowing the end.

Introducing new chews gradually

New chew types or flavors can upset your dog’s digestive system. Limit their chewing time initially to ensure success.

Staying up-to-date with dental care

Protect your dog’s oral health and be aware of any changes by visiting your veterinarian for routine check-ups and dental care. Dental disease and broken teeth not only make chewing painful but can lead to widespread illness in the body.

Provide continuous access to fresh water

Chewing is thirsty work, especially if the chews are dehydrated or flavored. Always keep fresh water available at all times.

Chewing can be a beneficial and rewarding activity for dogs, but only if the chews are safe, healthy, appropriately sized, and enjoyed under supervision.

Fortunately, replacing potentially harmful rawhide with safe alternatives is easier than ever. Your dog relies on you to do what’s best, so do your research and prioritize their health and well-being and you’re sure to find a chew that not only satisfies their instincts but strengthens your bond.

By Jaime Bast, RVT, CCRP, KPA-CTP

This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.