Keeping your furry teeth healthy and breathing fresh ain’t an easy job. Rawhides have been used as chew toys for many years. They are easily available, cheap, and have several dental benefits. However, that isn’t a free pass to turn a blind eye to the safety of feeding rawhides to your dog. 

Rawhides are less-than-natural chews that can cause intestinal blockage in dogs. On the other hand, natural chews are safe and work amazingly well for cleaning your dog’s teeth. It’s high time you switch to safer options for your dog’s dental health.

In this blog, we will discuss why rawhides are harmful to dogs and what better alternatives can be used.


Why Are Rawhides Dangerous For Dogs?

Firstly, let’s discuss why feeding rawhide to dogs isn’t recommended.

The variety of chemicals used in rawhide are highly dangerous for your pupper. There are innumerable stories of doggos choking on rawhides and suffering from intestinal blockage. A blockage like this can be life-threatening. The early-stage treatment involves surgery which can be quite heavy on your pocket. 

The question here is why take the risk when there are other safer options? Here are some of the alternatives you can go for!

Bully Sticks

Bully sticks are one of the most popular alternatives to rawhides. Dogs love its taste and texture. Most importantly, it is safe for chewing and great for dental hygiene. Bully sticks soften when chewed and help in getting rid of hidden bacteria in the dog’s mouth.

These sticks are safe for both puppies and senior dogs. Multiple sizes, shapes, thickness, lengths - you can choose any kind of bully sticks for your furry friend!

Collagen Chews

The natural source of collagen in collagen chews is great for your dog’s oral hygiene. Apart from helping remove the plaque during chewing sessions, it supports your dog’s joint function as well. Not only this, its fresh ingredients are great for maintaining your furry’s healthy coat and provide mental and physical stimulation.

Unlike Rawhides, collagen chews are free of harmful chemicals, completely safe for usage, and widely available at pet stores.

Click here to purchase Frankly Pet 100% Collagen chews for your furry!

Tripe Twist Sticks

Tripe Twist sticks are great for your dog’s flossing! The stick is made up of 100% green beef tripe. These sticks are easy to tear apart, but their delicious meaty flavor is loved by dogs. These are easy to digest and have low-fat content.

Chomper Sticks

If your dog loves chomping, go for this natural chew! It can be a delight for dogs with powerful jaws and can provide a long chomping session for delicate ones. Sticks, braids, or strips - these chompers come in various types.

Made of the beef esophagus, they are rich in protein, low in fat, and easy on your dog’s tummy. The chew’s odor can be strong so it’s recommended to be fed outdoors.

Brushless Toothpaste Chews

Brushless Toothpaste Chews are formulated for clean teeth and fresh breath. Isn’t it great how dogs can brush their teeth? With brushless toothpaste chews, feel free to say goodbye to your dog’s brush. 

Brushless toothpaste chews come in multiple lip-smacking flavors such as Vanilla, Clove, Chlorophyll, and Cinnamon. The ridges in these chews help in removing tooth plaque. 

  • Benefits
    • Freshens breath
    • Helps to reduce plaque
    • Yummy flavors available 
    • Approved by vets

Want to purchase a natural toothbrush for your dog?

Check out the Brushless Toothpaste Chews!

Raw Bones

Feeding raw bones can be great for fighting bacteria in a dog's mouth. Chewing helps in loosening bacteria, especially in hard-to-reach areas such as the back of the mouth. The enzymes from the meat also help in fighting bacteria and freshening up your dog’s breath.

Having said that, not all raw bones are safe to feed. You should go for edible bones like beef ribs and chicken necks.

Himalayan Yak Chews

These chews are best suited for tough chewers. They help in removing bacteria and last longer than most natural chews. Recommended for adult healthy dogs with strong teeth, these chews come with amazing flavors.

However, Yak chews aren’t made for every dog. Seniors, puppies, and dogs with dental problems should avoid using Yak chews due to their hardness and tendency to damage teeth. 

Icelandic+ Lamb Horns

Lamb horns are made of Keratin, are less dense than a bone, and are less risky for chewing. When chewed, the horn breaks into small digestible pieces. 

They are fibrous and help in brushing your dog’s teeth and gums. Lamb horns are suited for dogs of all sizes and ages.

Things To Keep In Mind Before Feeding Chews To Dogs

When talking about different rawhide alternatives for dogs, it is important to discuss the various risk factors involved with dog chews.

Here are some of the things you should keep in mind before feeding chews to your dog:

  • If any chew gets swallowed as a whole, it can lead to choking problems. Be extra cautious when feeding it to your dog.
  • When selecting the size of the chew, never go for a chew size too big or small.
  • Dogs that have digestive issues or a tendency to swallow treats should be monitored carefully throughout the chewing session.
  • Always balance your dog’s extra calories from chews with physical activity and regular activity. This prevents them from facing digestive issues.
  • Make sure to be around when your dog is chewing. It will help you ensure your dog’s safety, understand their chewing habits and further, help you in selecting better and safer chews for them.

Final Words

Dental hygiene is an important aspect of your dog’s overall health. Despite this, most pet parents happen to ignore it. 

To ensure your pet keeps chewing, eating, and biting like a boss, Natural Petware House has a wide range of dental chews. It’s time you ditch rawhides and go for safer chews for your fur babies!