Rawhide is one of the most popular chew treats on the market, but does that mean it is safe for your dog? Too often, owners believe this treat is harmless, not realizing there are dangers of rawhide for dogs. And while you may have heard horror stories from fellow doggie parents who bought their pup the wrong type of rawhide or experienced problems due to inadequate quality control and manufacturing practices, it is crucial to understand the potential risks associated with this chewy treat. So to ensure you are making the best choice for your pup, read on to learn the potential dangers of this common ingredient.
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What Are Rawhide Dog Treats Made From?
If you’ve ever given your pup a rawhide dog treat, you may have wondered exactly what it is that they’re chewing on. Rawhide is made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides, which are cleaned and cut into strips before being pressed and shaped into various dog chew shapes.
The process of making rawhide treats involves removing the hair and fat from the hides, then treating them with chemicals to make them easier to work with.
Oftentimes, these rawhide chews are also treated with flavorings, like chicken or beef, to help make them more appealing to your pup. Unfortunately, some added flavorings can be dangerous when ingested in large amounts.
Potential Dangers Of Rawhide For Dogs
Across pet stores and online shops, shoppers see rawhide chews as a natural treat that helps keep teeth clean. But while they may help with dental health, rawhide also has some potential risks associated with it. Here are a few that you should be aware of:
Choking Hazard
Rawhide chews can present a serious choking hazard for dogs, especially if the dog is an aggressive chewer or likes to swallow large pieces without properly breaking them down. When dogs chew on rawhide, small pieces can break off and become lodged in their throats, cutting off their air supply and causing choking.
If a dog is choking on a piece of rawhide, it’s important to act quickly. Signs of choking in dogs include coughing, gagging, pawing at the mouth, and difficulty breathing. Dog owners should try to remove the obstruction by gently pulling on the dog’s tongue or performing the Heimlich maneuver. In severe cases, it may be necessary to take the dog to an emergency veterinarian for treatment.
Intestinal Blockage
Rawhide chews can also cause intestinal blockages in dogs, which can be a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. This is because rawhide can be difficult for dogs to digest, especially if they swallow large pieces that get stuck in their intestines. When this happens, the blockage can prevent food and other waste from passing through the digestive system, leading to severe pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If a dog is showing signs of intestinal blockage, such as vomiting or a lack of bowel movements, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blockage and prevent further damage to the dog’s digestive system. To prevent intestinal blockages, dog owners should monitor their pets while they chew on rawhide and discard any pieces that are small enough to be swallowed whole.
