It's super common for dog owners to suggest rawhide chews to each other. You'll often hear things like, “I've never had an issue giving them to my pups” or “Oh, my dog goes crazy for these!”.
And yeah, maybe those owners have been lucky so far, but vets and experts in dog food have been raising concerns about rawhides for a long time. There's actually a lot of research and proof out there showing they can be risky for our pets.
The problem is that a significant portion of rawhide – anywhere from 15% to as much as half – doesn't get digested properly within 24 hours. That means you've got this big mass just sitting there, and it could cause a really serious, even life-threatening, blockage.
The good news is there are many other, safer chews out there that your dog will probably love just as much! We've prepared a list of our favorite natural chew options for you to try. This will help you discover what your dog enjoys most and what works best for their chewing style.
What's the Big Deal With Rawhides Anyway?
Well, they used to be super popular. Rawhide chews – those treats made from animal hides, usually cows – were seen as the perfect way to let your dog burn off some energy and have a safe chew.
But now, canine nutritionists and vets are waving a big red flag when it comes to rawhides, confirming that they can cause some serious problems, like choking and blockages in their intestines. Both of those are emergencies that can be life-threatening for your dog, so it's definitely something to take seriously.
We actually published a previous article that goes into all the details about rawhide and why it can be risky, so be sure to check it out for more information.
6 Healthy Natural Alternatives to Rawhide Chews for Dogs
If you've made it this far, you're likely on the hunt for a rawhide alternative that’s natural, without any chemical preservatives, and really easy to digest.
At Healthy Dogma, we offer a bunch of different healthy safe chews, because we know that both pets and their owners have their own preferences. Every dog owner is different, but all dogs have that natural urge to chew. We get that rawhide might not be the best choice for every dog out there. That’s why we have different options of rawhide-free chews for you to choose from!
It's also important to remember that every dog chews differently. To help you find the best natural rawhide alternative for your pup, it's good to know their chewing style. Some dogs are fast chewers, others like to take their time. Some take big bites, and others nibble. Whatever kind of chewer your dog is, we've got a perfect, all-natural option for you that's made without any of those artificial chemicals, preservatives, colors, or flavors.
#1 Natural Elk Antler Chews
You've probably seen those elk antler chews at your local pet store and maybe you're wondering, “What exactly are these things?” “Are elk antlers safe for dogs, or could they be dangerous?” That's a great question!
Animals like elk, moose, caribou, chital, and deer all have antlers, but not all antlers are the same, and that's what makes the difference when picking a good one for your dog. If you're going to give your dog elk antlers, you want to make sure they're naturally shed. That means they fell off on their own. Also, you want them to be free of any splinters, stains, or odors. That’s how you ensure they’re safe for your dog.
The cool thing about elk antlers is that they're naturally rich in calcium and other minerals, which can be a great extra boost for your dog’s health. And since they have absolutely no artificial ingredients, they're a wholesome and healthy way for your dog to satisfy their chewing needs.
This natural alternative comes in extra large and jumbo sizes, so you can find something that's just right for your dog, no matter their size or breed.
#2 Beef Cheek Rolls
These Beef Cheek Rolls are considered a safe and healthier alternative to rawhide, as long as you give them in moderation and pick a size that matches your dog's chewing style. They’re made from the inner cheek of cows, and they're a natural and wholesome way for your pet to get their chew on. They don't have any of those artificial additives or flavors either, so you know it's a pure and nutritious treat.
Each roll is usually about 5 to 7 inches long. The great thing about these is that chewing on those tough beef cheek rolls can actually help scrape away tartar and plaque, which is good for your dog's dental health!
Now, like with any chew, it's important to keep an eye on your dog while they're enjoying a beef cheek roll. And if you're ever worried about your dog's chewing habits, it's always best to contact your vet to get some personalized advice.
Just remember, moderation is key! Beef cheek rolls are awesome as an occasional treat, but they shouldn’t replace your dog’s regular, balanced meals.
#3 Beef Bully Sticks
Beef bully sticks, which you might also hear called pizzle sticks. These are an all-natural treat made from dried bull pizzle. Now, that might sound a little weird, but dogs are naturally drawn to that rich, meaty flavor. It's kind of like what their ancestors would have eaten!
Compared to rawhide chews which often include all sorts of preservatives and artificial additives, beef bully sticks are a single-source, healthy chew that is pure natural goodness without any unwanted extras.
Dogs absolutely love the taste of pizzle sticks, it hits the spot with their natural meat cravings. They go crazy for the flavor and the chewy texture, which makes it a treat they enjoy and one that also gives them some nutritional benefits.
Another thing that makes bully sticks so popular is that they’re super simple. It’s a single-ingredient treat, which makes it easy to trust. That transparency is a big reason why a lot of dog owners choose these over other chews and treats.
You can find them in packs of 1 or 10, so you can get the amount that works best for your dog, based on how much they like to chew.
#4 Water Buffalo Cheek Roll
If you're looking for a real rawhide alternative that'll keep your dog happy without breaking the bank, you should definitely check out water buffalo cheek rolls. They're a long-lasting chew made from just 100% water buffalo cheek, and they're high in protein but low in fat.
You know how beef rawhide can get all soggy and absorb moisture? Well, water buffalo cheek is different - it stays nice and firm. That way, you don't have to worry about your dog swallowing large, potentially dangerous pieces or those super messy poos.
#5 Ox Tail Chews
Ox tail chews are made from dried ox tail, they have a natural and irresistible flavor that dogs just can't get enough of. The rich taste is sure to keep your pooch entertained and satisfied during their chewing sessions.
These natural chews are also a great choice for smaller dogs or puppies who are still getting the hang of chewing since they're a bit smaller in size. You can pick them up in packs of 1, 3, or 5, so you can choose the quantity that fits your pup's needs.
And that's not all - ox tail chews can also help keep your dog's teeth clean by gently scraping away plaque and tartar while they chew, and they even give those jaw muscles a good workout.
#6 Beef Knee Caps
Trust us, beef knee caps aren't just a fun chewing activity, they're rich in nutrients, providing more than meets the eye. The beef marrow inside is a natural source of protein and essential fats, which are important for supporting a healthy diet.
They also provide the vitamins and minerals your dog needs to keep their immune system, skin and coat healthy. What's also great about beef knee caps is that they're a single-ingredient treat, with absolutely no additives or preservatives, making them a clean and simple choice for your pet.
We go the extra mile by sourcing from trusted suppliers to ensure the quality and safety of these chews. Our beef knee caps are also naturally higher in several key nutrients and lower in saturated fat compared to beef from conventionally raised cattle.
Other Healthy Goodies Your Dog Might Love
While rawhides might keep your dog busy, they often come with some real concerns and don't offer much nutritional value.
If you're thinking of swapping out rawhide from your dog's treat collection, the natural alternative chews we've discussed in this article are a great starting point for a safer and more wholesome option. Just remember to keep an eye on your dog whenever they're enjoying any type of chew, just to be safe.
And if you're keen to explore even more ways to keep your dog healthy yet satisfied, Healthy Dogma has a fantastic range of rawhide-free treats, as well as a bunch of natural, human-grade dog food choices to help support their overall well-being.
Check out our full collection of dog food, treats, and health supplements today!
