Is Rawhide Bad for Dogs?

There you are, watching your dog happily chew away on their favorite rawhide snack, when suddenly you begin to wonder, “Is rawhide safe for dogs?” As your buddy continues to drool over their delicious treat, more questions begin to circulate your mind: “Do dogs digest rawhide?” “What is rawhide made of?” “Can rawhide make a dog sick?”

So is rawhide bad for dogs? Even though it is not inherently toxic, it’s also not generally recommended by veterinarians either. While there are some benefits to rawhide bones and rawhide chews, there are also a few significant risks that one needs to be mindful of before giving these to your loved one. In this article, we’ll explain what rawhide is, explore the potential dangers, and share safer, veterinarian-approved alternatives you can feel good about.

What Is Rawhide?

We are right back to the question, “What is rawhide made of?” Rawhides happen to be byproducts of the leather industry. They are made from the inner layers of dried-out cow or horse hides and are then fashioned into various forms, such as traditional rawhide bones to other types of rawhide chews, shapes, and sizes. They are then enhanced with various flavors and proteins, including beef, chicken, turkey, and more.

During the manufacturing process they are usually soaked, cleaned, and chemically treated to remove hair, fat, meat, preserves, and other parts that generally shouldn’t be on the rawhide. They are then shaped into knots, rolls, chips, chews, and any other shape or size that the brand prefers. Afterwards they are dried out completely to create a long-lasting, tough texture that is good for most dogs to gnaw on. Some rawhide products might also be bleached for color or use food-safe glues and preservatives to maintain their shape. These practices can be concerning to health-conscious pet owners, especially when they are looking for something better for their pal to chew on outside of their personal belongings.

Perhaps you’re wondering, “Why do dogs like to chew on things?” The answer is simple: Dogs have a natural chewing instinct. The very act of chewing is rewarding, and they also enjoy chewing for many reasons such as stimulation or as a means to manage certain types of anxiety. Puppies have a strong desire to chew on things during their teething stages, and chewing is also a way for them to physically learn about their environment. It is extremely important to read the instructions for any chew treat or toy to understand if the product is safe and appropriate to feed to puppies and, if so, at what age. It is best to reach out to the manufacturer or to your veterinarian if there is no information on appropriateness to offer the product to puppies.  However, with puppies, we need to be careful and address the question, “Why is rawhide bad for puppies?” See, puppies need chews like adult dogs, but they have developing teeth and a more sensitive digestive system, which must be taken into consideration. Therefore, a good rule of thumb is to always talk to a vet before giving any type of chew to your pet, especially if it is not approved for their life stage.

Why Some Rawhide Can Be Bad for Dogs: The Primary Risks

While rawhide bones might look harmless, the risks they pose can be quite serious and sometimes even life-threatening. Understanding why rawhide is bad for dogs helps you make safer choices for your furry friend.

Choking and Obstruction Hazards

This is by far the most dangerous risk associated with rawhide chews. Sometimes dogs will tear off and swallow large chunks or pieces too small for their size, which don’t break down easily. In turn, these pieces can get stuck in their esophagus or intestines, leading to emergency veterinarian intervention and/or surgery. It can also become a serious choking hazard that blocks the airways. Learning some dog first aid can be a literal lifesaver for your pal in the event that an emergency occurs. This is also why if you are going to feed rawhides, you should promptly remove and dispose of any pieces that are small enough to fully fit in your dog’s mouth.

Digestive Irritation and Upset

Even when rawhide doesn’t cause choking or obstruction, it can still irritate your dog’s digestive system. Rawhide is not easily broken down by stomach acids, which can ultimately lead to stomach discomfort and soft stool.

Common symptoms of rawhide-related stomach upset include:

• Vomiting  
• Diarrhea  
• Abdominal pain, bloating, or excessive gas
• Loss of appetite or lethargy

So if you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can rawhide make a dog sick?” or “Can rawhide give dogs diarrhea?” – the answer is yes. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, food allergies, or a history of digestive issues are especially vulnerable.

Even if your dog seems fine after chewing rawhide, it can still cause subtle, recurring irritation that may lead to long-term digestive problems over time.

Contamination Concerns

Most health-conscious owners prefer cleaner dog treats. However, rawhides have been known to be a breeding site for potential bacterial and chemical contaminants.

Bacterial Contamination

Rawhide chews have occasionally tested positive for harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli. While improved processing standards have reduced this risk, contamination can still occur, particularly if the product is being improperly stored or handled.

Chemical Residues

Rawhide’s manufacturing process often involves chemical treatments to clean, bleach, and preserve the hide. While regulatory agencies typically consider these residues safe in small amounts, some owners prefer to avoid them entirely.

Safer Alternatives to Rawhide

The good news is that you don’t have to give up on chews altogether. There are plenty of satisfying alternatives to rawhide for dogs. This includes treats and chew toys that promote healthy chewing habits and dental health without worrying about digestive concerns. However, it is still a good idea to keep an eye on your pal whenever they chew on anything, since these can still be choking hazards. This is especially true for dogs that are highly treat-motivated and/or aggressive chewers.

VOHC-Approved Dental Chews

Dental chews that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal are treats that have been assessed for certain parameters regarding dental efficacy and support. These chews have been designed for easy digestion and to aid in the reduction of plaque and tartar buildup. In turn, this supports your dog’s oral health while providing them with chewing satisfaction.

A great example of this type of treat are the Purina DentaLife Dental Chews. These are VOHC-approved chews that have been scientifically formulated to clean teeth down to the gumline while being safe and digestible for dogs of all walks of life, including puppies as young as three months old.

Durable Rubber/Nylon Chews

For pooches who love to chew up everything in sight, non-consumable dog toy options can be a great fit. For example, toys made of rubber and nylon, such as KONG® or Nylabones®, are known to be able to withstand hours of chewing, providing both mental stimulation and stress relief for your pal. For an added challenge, try stuffing a KONG toy with a bit of dog-safe peanut butter and kibble to create a fun activity that your buddy will greatly enjoy. Just be sure to choose the correct size and strength for your dog’s breed and chewing style. It’s also important to monitor your dog when you first introduce them to a new chew toy to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your buddy. It’s also good to watch these toys for any wear and tear as time goes on, so that you can know when it’s time to buy your buddy a new one.

Edible Chews Made from Digestible Ingredients

If you or your dog prefer more edible chews, there’s good news: Many brands have multiple options available that don’t contain rawhide. Most of these longer-lasting chews will contain ingredients found in typical pet food. However, they are combined in a way that allows your pet more time to enjoy the chewing process compared to typical biscuits and softer, smaller, bite-size chews.

How Can I Be Sure Rawhide Is Good for My Dog?

The best dog treats are the ones that suit your pup’s needs and bring them joy. But when it comes to rawhide chews, how can you know if the one you’ve chosen is truly safe for your dog?

While most veterinarians urge caution with traditional rawhide, some owners still offer it occasionally. If you do decide to give your dog rawhide, make sure to choose high-quality products and offer these to them in moderation to help keep your dog safe and healthy. It is also a good idea to talk to your vet ahead of time about whether you should give your dog rawhide and, if so, which rawhide might be the best fit for your pal.

• Choose trusted brands: Premium choices like Purina Busy Rollhide Chew Treats are made under rigorous safety standards and designed to be more digestible than the traditional rawhide.  
• Feed in moderation: Perhaps you’re wondering, “How many rawhides can a dog have in a week?” There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer. It really comes down to your dog’s size, activity level, and diet. Note that the combined amount of calories that come from the rawhides should not exceed more than 10% of the dog’s daily calorie allotment, just as with any other treat.
• Understand the difference (rawhide vs. rollhide): Rawhide is the untanned inner hide of animals and are meant to be long-lasting, while rollhide is cooked and formulated to be safer and more digestible.

When used properly and under supervision, rollhide is a safe alternative that satisfies your dog’s need to chew while minimizing health risks. However, always consult your veterinarian before making these a regular treat.

Important Considerations for Any Chew Treat or Toy

No matter which kind of treats, chews, or toys you select, a few universal safety rules should always apply:  

• Supervise your dog: Always monitor your pup during chew time even with safer products.
• Pick the right size: Choose a chew that’s too large to swallow whole to prevent choking.  
• Age matters: Puppies with developing teeth and seniors with maturing choppers will usually need something that is softer and easier to chew. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s label to determine if the treat or toy is safe for puppies as well as any feeding instructions prior to offering any treats to your pup.
• Match their chewing style: A gentle chewer may be all right with a hard chew treat and toy option but could also prefer something softer. An aggressive chewer will need something extra durable to prevent quickly breaking down the chew into pieces, creating a potential choking hazard.
• Replace when chews get too small: No matter what they’re made from, discard chews once they shrink to a size that could be swallowed or present a choking hazard.
• Consult your vet: For dogs with dental issues, sensitive stomachs, or medical conditions, your veterinarian can recommend the safest chew options.

While rawhide bones and chews have long been popular, the reality is that their risks often outweigh their benefits. Choking hazards, digestion issues, and contamination concerns make rawhide a questionable choice for most dogs.

Thankfully, pet owners today have plenty of safer, veterinarian-recommended alternatives from VOHC-approved dental chews to wholesome, digestible treats made from natural ingredients. By understanding what to watch out for when offering your dog rawhide and deciding whether they are right for you and your pet’s lifestyle, you’re taking a big step toward protecting your pet’s overall health and happiness.

For more expert tips on dog nutrition and treats, explore our other dog feeding guide articles.