Why Rawhide Is Bad for Dogs (And What to Give Instead)
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Rawhide chews have been a staple in pet shops for decades — but in recent years, more and more vets and dog owners are moving away from them. If you've ever wondered whether rawhide is safe for your dog, here's what you need to know.
What Is Rawhide?
Rawhide is made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides. After the outer fur is removed during leather production, the inner hide is cleaned, processed, and shaped into chews. It sounds natural — but the manufacturing process is far from it.
Why Is Rawhide Bad for Dogs?
1. Chemical Processing
To preserve and whiten rawhide, manufacturers typically use a range of chemicals including bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and artificial preservatives. Some rawhide products are also treated with artificial flavourings and dyes to make them more appealing. These chemicals have no place in your dog's diet.
2. Choking and Blockage Risk
As dogs chew rawhide, it softens and becomes gummy. Large chunks can break off and be swallowed whole, creating a serious choking hazard or causing a gastrointestinal blockage — which can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgery.
3. It's Not Easily Digestible
Unlike natural chews made from meat or milk protein, rawhide is not easily broken down by a dog's digestive system. Swallowed pieces can sit in the stomach or intestines for extended periods, causing discomfort, vomiting, or blockages.
4. Contamination Risk
Rawhide has been subject to recalls due to contamination with Salmonella and other bacteria, posing a risk to both dogs and the humans handling the chews.
5. Poor Nutritional Value
Rawhide offers virtually no nutritional benefit. It's essentially a processed hide with no meaningful protein, vitamins, or minerals — just something to chew on, with significant risks attached.
Safe Natural Alternatives to Rawhide
The good news is there are plenty of natural, safe alternatives that satisfy your dog's chewing instinct without the risks.
Yak Chews
Made from just yak milk, lime, and salt — yak chews are hard, long-lasting, and fully digestible. They don't splinter, contain no chemicals, and are virtually odour-free. One of the best rawhide alternatives available.
Long-Lasting Natural Chews
Our long-lasting chews are made from natural animal ingredients with no artificial processing — giving your dog a satisfying chew that's safe, digestible, and free from nasties.
Veggie Chews
For a completely meat-free alternative, veggie chews made from sweet potato, carrot, or beetroot are gentle, low-calorie, and safe for most dogs including those with sensitivities.
Freeze Dried Treats
While not a long-lasting chew, freeze dried treats are a clean, natural reward made from 100% real meat or fish — a world away from the chemical-laden rawhide alternative.
What to Look for in a Safe Chew
- Short, recognisable ingredient list
- No artificial preservatives, colours, or flavourings
- Fully digestible if swallowed in small pieces
- Appropriate size for your dog's breed and weight
- Always supervise your dog with any chew
For more on choosing safe, natural treats, see our guide: What to Look for on Dog Treat Ingredient Labels.
Final Thoughts
Rawhide might be cheap and widely available, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. With so many safe, natural alternatives now on the market, there's really no reason to reach for rawhide. Your dog deserves better — and so does your peace of mind.
Browse all our natural chews at Pawtastic Munchies — no rawhide, no nasties, no compromise.
