Pig Hide & Pig Ears As Related to Dog Health

Chewing helps satisfy your dog's need to chew. Treats from pigs include pig ears and hide (or rawhide) bones, strips and rolls. Health benefits and risks depend on various factors.

  1. Function

    • Pig hide and ears provide enjoyable activity for your dog, according to Vetinfo. Treats differ in designs and some are intended for eating. Other kinds can function just for chewing.

    Risks

    • Pig hide and ears potentially create risks that include esophageal blockage, choking and intestinal blockage. According to Vetinfo, rolled rawhide bones increase risks of teeth and jaw injuries. The fat content of pig ears contribute to obesity.

    Contaminants

    • Pig hide and ears problems include allergic reaction and upset stomach. According to the University of Wisconsin, outbreaks of salmonella infect both pets and humans who handle the treats. The U. S. Food and Drug Administration reported findings of melamine, a potential deadly contaminate for dogs, in pig ears in 2007.

    Prevention

    • Steps to increase the safety of pig ears and hide include choosing the proper size, buying from safe sources and limiting consumed treats. According to Vetinfo, safe suppliers test the ears for contamination. According to the World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress, pig ears sold in large bins lack quality control. Supervision of your dog with chew treats provides you with the ability to act quickly if it chokes or breaks off pieces that potentially could cause problems.