Rawhide chews are a favorite item for many adult dogs and puppies. But many pet parents may wonder whether rawhide chews are safe to give to their dog or puppy. Rawhide can be a safe chew, but it must be given with caution and pet parents need to be aware of several concerns.
Is Rawhide Safe for Dogs?
If dogs swallow small pieces of rawhide, these will pass easily through the digestive tract without a problem. There is the potential that larger size pieces could cause choking or intestinal obstruction. Common-sense prevention measures should be taken. A dog or puppy should not have access to a rawhide product while unsupervised. Some dogs may quickly chew and swallow large pieces of rawhide. When your dog has chewed on a piece of rawhide to the point of it becoming soft, take that rawhide chew away and substitute another. Allow the softened rawhide to dry and harden, and it can then be given back to the dog.
Pet parents should be aware that rawhide, chews, and other treats can be very high in calories and can lead to obesity if not given in moderation. Rawhide and other chews as well as treats should not consist of more than 10% of a dog's total daily caloric intake.
Rawhide Products: Things to Keep in Mind
There are many different rawhide products on the market today. Not all rawhide products may be appropriate for all dogs, especially puppies. Puppy teeth are fragile and can be easily broken if the pup is allowed to chew on hard objects. It is possible that very thick, hard rawhide chews could fracture a puppy's deciduous teeth. While an adult dog's permanent teeth should be stronger than a puppy's deciduous teeth, hard rawhide chews could potentially fracture an adult dog's teeth as well. Pet parents should choose rawhide accordingly.
Dogs and puppies who require a special diet due to an underlying medical issue likely should not be given rawhide. Rawhide can be high in protein, salt, and phosphorus and may cause issues with certain medical conditions.
When given under supervision and in appropriate circumstances, rawhide can be a safe chew item for both adult dogs and puppies.