Rawhide bones and chews are made from the inner layer of animal hide. Generally, manufacturers use cow hide, but horse, bull or other hides may also be used. Rawhide is sold in almost every pet store and is irresistible to most dogs. However, before you indulge your dog with another rawhide bone or chew, you should know the risks associated with rawhide.

First, a popular misconception is that rawhide is composed solely of dried animal hides. In reality, rawhide may contain harsh and potentially dangerous chemicals such as bleach and lye that have been used to clean and remove hair and tissue from the hide. Residue from these chemicals may be left behind on the rawhide that your dog is so eagerly chewing.

Second, rawhide products are not regulated or inspected by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, many rawhide bones and chews are manufactured overseas in countries with even less oversight over the rawhide production process than in the United States. Cases have been reported where foreign rawhides have been found to contain dangerous substances such as arsenic and traces of salmonella bacteria. In 1999, the FDA released a warning stating that there were documented cases of salmonella spreading to humans from rawhide chews.

Third, rawhide may cause severe medical problems when consumed by your dog. Your dog’s gastric juices cannot break down rawhide. And worse, rawhide can absorb the liquids in your dog’s gastric juices and saliva and expand in size. The indigestible parts and even swollen rawhide may get stuck in your dog’s stomach, intestines, or esophagus requiring surgical removal. Even if the rawhide does not get stuck within your dog, it can scrape your dog’s throat or esophagus and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract causing vomiting and diarrhea.

As an alternative to rawhide you should provide your dog with safe, clean, non-digestible or easily digestible chew items. You can even stuff hollow, indestructible toys with some treats or kibble so that your dog has some tasty fun while chewing.