No Rawhides for My Dogs

Truth: I am a bit of a helicopter-dog-mom.

After losing my first doggy, Leo in June of 2014 I’ve been so cautious about the food, treats, toys for Kenzo + Vík. Although, I will never know if this had anything to do with Leo’s passing, I was unaware of the potential hazards of feeding dogs grain and corn filled food. I was also unaware of the potential dangers of rawhides. 

Now, to give myself a little grace, it wasn’t until a few years ago that limited ingredient “higher” quality dog food was available to pet owners. But, as soon as it was, you can betcha I was on that train quicker than flies on dog poo!

Since we first brought Kenzo home the food, treats, and toys we buy have non-negotiable rules:

• only USA made 
• limited ingredients: no corn & no soy
• no rawhides
• supervision when giving them new toys
• no toys allowed in Vík’s kennel when we are not at home (fear of choking)
• no table scraps

One of the things on the list that I want to discuss today is my rule around No Rawhides. But, since chewing is not only fantastic for keeping dogs’ teeth and gums healthy, along with being a natural habit for dogs, I wanted to share some of the Rawhide Alternatives I trust and purchase.

The Best Rawhide Alternatives for Dogs

Elk Antlers from Elkhorn Premium Chews

• 100% Natural: All of our antlers are collected from wild, free-range elk in the USA – never from farms. Our antler chews are all-natural and contain no additives, preservatives, hormones, or fillers. We collect only natural sheds that have already dropped to the ground – no animals are ever harmed.
• 100% Renewable: Every year, bull elk naturally drop their antlers before growing a new set. This process ensures a renewable and sustainable supply of healthy dog chews year after year.
• Great for Teeth & Gums
• No Odor / No Mess: Elk antler chews are odor free and will leave behind no greasy or sticky residue.
• Supervision Recommended: Perfect for indoor or outdoor use; we always supervise when they have these just incase they crack or shred in a potentially hazardous way. 

Snacho & Lola’s Bully Sticks

• Made in the USA
• 100% Natural: Our bully sticks are made with One Ingredient-beef. No fillers. Moderate odor ‘relative’ to other natural bully sticks.
• Great for Keeping Dogs Busy: A busy dog is a good dog. You will need our THICK size for large dogs or power-chewers. For Small dogs or dogs on calorie restriction, our THIN bullys or Steers may be a better option.
• Great for Teeth & Gums: These rawhide alternative dog chews are made from natural muscle fiber that stimulates gums and flosses teeth.
• Supervision Recommended: These bully sticks are considered a safer alternative to Rawhide treats because bully sticks are made from tissue that is digestible.

Kathmandu’s Himalayan Yak Chew

• Made in the USA
• 100% Natural: Himalayan Yak Natural Dog Chews are smoked hard cheese treat produced with 100% pasture-raised Himalayan cow milk and a trace amount of lime juice. The name and description may sound weird, but trust me, our dogs love them!
• Great for Teeth & Gums

Turkey Tendons

• Made in the USA
• Quality Natural Ingredients: 100% pure turkey tendon with NO additives, NO chemicals, NO preservatives, NO antibiotics, NO artificial flavors or coloring, NO steroids, NO growth hormones, and NO other harmful ingredients. A healthy natural alternative to rawhide products.
• Great for Teeth & Gums: It is a tasty tendon treat that strengthens gums and improves overall dog dental health

Some other ideas for alternatives to rawhide treats: chilled carrots, frozen apples, or you could make these Healthy Homemade Peanut Butter Coconut Oil Dog Treats!