❌ Don't Bite This: Why Rawhide Isn't As Tasty As It Looks..

It sounds so simple: a big, white bone for your dog to chew on. But what you may not know is that rawhide is actually a bit of a wolf in sheep’s clothing in the world of dog treats. So let’s unpack this mysterious stuff – because hey, your dog deserves the best!

What is rawhide anyway? 

Rawhide sounds cool, but in reality, it’s simply a byproduct of the leather industry. It starts with the inner layer of animal hide (usually cow), which is cleaned, soaked in chemicals, and then treated. The hide is then dried and rolled into all sorts of shapes – think bones, sticks, and even fancy hearts.

During this process, the hide is often soaked in lime solutions to remove grease and hair. It is then bleached with substances such as hydrogen peroxide to get that bright white color we all know. But wait, there’s more! To give rawhide its shiny and hard appearance, artificial glues and preservatives are often used. And some of those substances? You don’t want them anywhere near your dog. Think chemicals such as formaldehyde or even arsenic that are not banned in some producing countries. Yikes! 🤢

In addition, the snack is often artificially perfumed to seem more attractive to your dog. A tasty smell, but unfortunately nothing natural about it.

The Dangers of Rawhide ⚠️

Rawhide may seem like a solid chew, but it can be a pretty risky choice. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider a different snack:

1. Swallowing Problems: When a dog chews on rawhide, it breaks into slippery pieces. These pieces can get stuck in the throat or gastrointestinal tract. Not only is this scary, it could also mean an emergency trip to the vet. 🚑

2. Indigestible: Rawhide is not digested well by the body. Large pieces can even cause a blockage, which causes pain and serious health problems. In some cases, surgery is needed to remove the blockage, which is stressful and dangerous for your dog.

3. Chemicals: As we mentioned, rawhide treats are often treated with substances that your dog doesn’t need. Think glue, bleach, and sometimes even arsenic (yes, really!). These substances can be toxic and in high doses can cause serious consequences, including liver and kidney damage.

4. Allergic reactions: Some dogs may have an allergic reaction to the chemicals or fragrances used during production. This can lead to itching, rashes, vomiting or diarrhea.

5. Choking Hazard: For dogs that eat greedily or chew vigorously, a large piece of rawhide can become dislodged and lodge directly in the windpipe. This can lead to choking – a life-threatening situation that requires immediate intervention.

Healthy and safe alternatives for your dog 🌿

Fortunately, there are many natural chews that not only provide your dog with pleasure, but also health. These snacks are pure and unprocessed, made from animal or vegetable products, without artificial additives. They are often dried or baked to retain the taste and nutrients.

What makes these snacks so good for your dog?

Natural chews are 100% natural, with no colorants, flavors or preservatives. They are firm enough to give your dog a long chew, but not so hard that they can damage the teeth. They are also highly digestible, which minimizes the risk of blockages or discomfort.

Types of natural chews

There are many different types of natural chews. Beef head hide is ideal for strong chewers because it is durable and all natural. Deer antlers contain valuable minerals, do not splinter and are also durable. Dried tripe may not be the most pleasant smell to us, but dogs love it! Yak cheese chews, made from milk, are nice and hard and long-lasting. Fish chews such as salmon skin are packed with omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy coat, and there are waaaaay more to choose from!

Why are these snacks better?

Natural chews are much better for your dog for several reasons. They are healthier because they do not contain artificial additives and are all natural. They are also safer because they are highly digestible and the risk of blockages or choking is minimal. Many natural treats are packed with important nutrients such as protein, omega-3s and minerals that contribute to your dog’s health. In addition, they provide long-lasting chewing pleasure, which is not only enjoyable but also helps to clean their teeth. And last but not least, natural chews are often produced in a more sustainable way, which makes them not only better for your dog, but also for the environment.

With these natural chew snacks you not only give your dog something tasty, but also something that is good for his health and the world around us!

The last word 

Rawhide may look like a quick chew, but the story behind it is less tasty. Instead, choose natural, safe alternatives that make your dog happy without the risks. Because a happy dog ​​is a healthy dog ​​- and that's what we do it for! 💚

What's your favorite safe snack for your furry friend? Let us know in the comments or send a photo of your wagging chewing champion! 📸🐕