02/13/2026
Barbara Duke Killough
Your dog might love rawhide… but here are 5 reasons to stop giving it to them immediately 🚨
1. Rawhide Is Made Using Harsh Chemicals
Rawhide is made from cow or horse skin. The production process involves soaking in salty brines, washing with detergents, sterilising, and treating with strong chemicals to remove hair and fat.
Artificial colours, flavours, and even adhesives are often added to create the “fun” shapes. 😳 This is not an ideal snack for your dog.
While US-made rawhide may reduce some chemical exposure, it does not address the broader concerns with this type of chew.
2. Rawhide Can Cause Intestinal Blockages 🤢
Rawhide is not meant to be eaten and is very difficult for dogs to digest. Swallowed pieces can cause intestinal blockages or damage the digestive tract.
If your dog experiences vomiting or diarrhoea after chewing rawhide, contact a veterinarian immediately, as surgery may be required.
3. Rawhide Is a Choking Hazard 😲
As dogs chew rawhide, it softens and becomes stringy. Pieces can break off and get lodged in the throat or esophagus, which can be life-threatening.
Rawhide also becomes slimy, making it difficult to remove. It is such a common choking hazard that some canine first-aid courses specifically cover how to safely remove it.
4. Rawhide Can Damage Your Dog’s Teeth 🦷
Some rawhide is very dense and hard to break down. While it’s often given as a dental treat or for entertainment, chewing a hard, brittle chew for hours can actually damage your dog’s teeth.
5. Rawhide Can Carry Contamination ⚠️
Rawhide is an animal-based product, so there’s a risk of bacteria like E. coli or salmonella. With all the other issues rawhide brings, is it really worth the risk?
What Can I Give My dog Instead of Rawhide? 🤔 Check out our "Best Dog Dental Chews" list here https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/best-dog-dental-chews/
