To Rawhide or Not To Rawhide

Compressed Rawhide

We’re asked daily if rawhide is actually good for dogs and our answer is always the same. If you are overly concerned about it, then we advise against treating your pup with rawhide. However, we would like to arm you with some information on what rawhide is so you can make the best decision for your dog.

Rawhide is typically made from cowhide. It is the inner layer of hide. There are two types of rawhide on the market, both of which we carry. The first is a traditional white knotted-bone rawhide, which you’re probably most familiar with. And the second type is a compressed rawhide. The difference between compressed and regular rawhide is that the compressed rawhides are first broken down into smaller pieces. Then, several layers are pressed back together in various shapes and forms. You get multi-layers of rawhide with the compressed version, which also tends to make this last longer than the traditional rawhide chew. The hide on the compressed rawhide bones look almost translucent, or see-through. Our Bony Babies toys have a compressed rawhide chew-bone sewn right inside, so you get both a toy and a treat together in one item. Both types of rawhide, traditional and compressed, are safe, but we always advise parents to supervise your dog when they are chewing on anything.

There are many benefits to giving your dogs rawhide treats, including dental health. As your dog chews, the rawhide aids in scraping plaque and tartar off their teeth. Rawhides also have great behavioral benefits. Dogs instinctively like to chew, especially puppies. But instead of your new shoes or furniture becoming your dog’s favorite, you can offer rawhides to deter them from your precious items.

Whichever version of rawhide you pick for your pup, we recommend doing your research first. Ask questions, and then decide. Until next time…WOOF!

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