Are Greenies Bad for Dogs?

Greenies are popular chew treats for dogs that help keep teeth clean and are marketed as fully digestible. In 2006, 13 dogs died after consuming Greenies. Reportedly bits of the treat had become lodged in their esophagus and intestines.

  1. Features

    • The first ingredient in the original formula for Greenies was wheat gluten. When the story about the dog deaths first broke, the company stood behind their product. But after months of consumer complaints, the company changed the formula in late 2006.

    New Formula

    • The first ingredient in the new formula is gelatin. The original Greenies were extremely hard. But now, with this new formula, Greenies have a chewier texture as well as added fiber to ensure that the treats digest properly.

    Significance

    • The new Greenie formula does not have the sharp, hard edges the old formula did. This change lessens the chance of choking.

    Considerations

    • Greenies are not bad for dogs unless the dog has wheat allergies, since the main ingredients are wheat. Likewise, some dogs have soy sensitivities, and the new formula does include soy.

    Warning

    • Always supervise any treat or chew bone given to a dog. This is especially true for treats that are extremely hard since dogs can break off large pieces and attempt to swallow them, which could lead to choking.