Alternatives to Rawhide

Rawhide is made from slaughtered livestock. It is processed from the inner layer of the hide. It is then molded, shaped, and sometimes flavored to make for more appealing dog treats, and they do make good chew toys for most dogs. Chewing is a natural need and instinct for all dogs. Puppies especially feel the need to chew when they are losing their milk teeth and growing in their permanent set. The problem with rawhide is that it can cause problems in the digestion tract if too much is consumed. We had a dog that would devour a whole rawhide in one sitting. He would then start heaving, and eventually throw it up. This is better compared to what can happen, as stated on Web MD, it can be contaminated with chemicals, though rare, there is always a chance. There is also a choking risk and a risk for blockages. There are also cases where dogs can be allergic to rawhide. So if you're looking into some rawhide alternatives, here are a few options.


Antlers

Deer antlers can be bought at many pet retailers. They are less likely to splinter than normal processed bones, and they last a lot longer. Like all dog treats, they come on a variety of sizes. Another plus is that they are rich in minerals. To make them even more appealing, deer shed their antlers every year, and no deer need to be slaughtered in order to obtain them.










Raw Bones

Though they may be a bit gruesome for some owners, raw bones make an ideal chewing treat for any dog. They are all organic and include the bone marrow, and cartilage. Note that these are RAW bones. bones that have been cooked in your oven splinter easily, and can seriously harm your companion. Also it is advised to stay away from any type of bones from birds, as they are very brittle and prone to splintering.









Bully Sticks

My dog's personal favorite, the bully stick. Bully Sticks are made from dried and baked bull pizzles. It's a bit of a turn-off for some owners, and I can't say I blame them, but if you can push past the fact of where they came from, they make great chews. Ambitious chewers may demolish these quickly, and they can be pricey. But it all depends on the dog. A bully stick will last my dog a couple of weeks. They are completely edible, and digestible, as they are all muscle, and that means no risk of splintering.

Non-Edible Nylabone

Nylabones are great for strong chewers, they are durable and great for cleaning teeth. The reason behind the non-edible nylabone, is because some of their edible kinds, they are made of a gummy type of material, break off easily and cause serious health problems for your pet.  Read More about it HERE













Disclaimer: These are products chosen by this writer's personal opinion. Buying your pet any new toy poses risks. Know your pet, and do your research to find out what products are best suited for your furry friend. And as always, if you have any medical concerns regarding your pet, contact your veterinarian.