Q. My dog loves rawhide chews, but my friend said they are dangerous. Is she right?
A. Yes, Rawhide is an easy chew toy for many dogs who need to be occupied, but there are some risks.
The major concerns with rawhide chews are the potential of choking, digestive blockage, chemical contamination, and possible bacterial risks. Choking is the most common with aggressive chewers. The dog will rip off a piece of the chew and try to swallow it, getting it lodged in the upper throat. It can also get stuck in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines resulting in a blockage which will need to be recovered by using an endoscope or surgery.
Rawhide chews are manufactured by using chemicals such as formaldehyde, lye, or sodium sulfide. These are toxic chemicals not made for ingestion and cause a wide range of problems.
Depending on the source and the manufacturing process, some of these products can carry pathogenic bacteria. E. coli and Salmonella are common contaminants, which can adversely affect your pup and human family members.
Not common but does occasionally occur, pieces of the rawhide can get stuck between teeth causing erosion of the gums if left there too long.
To prevent problems first know what kind of chewer Fido is. If he is a mild chewer, these products may be safe. Aggressive chewers are more likely to have problems. Select an appropriate size for your best friend. You don’t want it too small. Choose a high-quality product where you know the source to reduce contaminants. Supervise your dog when he is chewing. Stop him when the remaining piece is small. Take it away if you are concerned. Your gut feeling is usually right. Try an alternative product that is a natural digestible chew like dehydrated meat products, bully sticks, or specific dental chews. Some chews available now are made from sweet potato and fish skins.
If you see a problem, be proactive and call your veterinarian or urgent care. Signs of concern can be gagging, excessive drooling, or vomiting.
Why do we give dogs rawhides anyway? Dogs need to chew. Chewing is like a pacifier for many dogs. Chewing can relax them. Depending on the product, it can help with dental hygiene by cleaning away tartar and massaging gums. It can reduce stress in your dog. If you are leaving your dog in the car or at home and you are worried about boredom, using a quality safe chew product will be helpful. Chewing and sniffing games can activate the mind and help prevent problems like barking and destructive behavior.
The key points are to have something to chew that is made from safely sourced material and is appropriate for your dog’s size, age, and temperament. Never leave him alone when chewing something that can get caught in his throat.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com