How to Make Rawhide Bones

Rawhide bones are a favorite treat for dogs. They are typically made from cows' hides, but just about any mammal's skin will do. Rawhide bones provide a tasty chewing alternative to traditional bones that can splinter. Many retailers carry rawhide bones, but you can easily make your own at home and save money.

Things You'll Need

  • Hide from a small farm animal
  • Large pot
  • Water
  • Sharp knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain a hide. Visit a local farm to see if one is available from an animal slaughtered for food. This is often the easiest and least expensive way to obtain a hide. You won't need an entire skin, so think smaller animals like goats or sheep rather than cows.

    • 2

      Soak the hide in a large pot of water to remove excess fats, dirt and other contaminants. The water should be heated but not boiling. Soak the hide for anywhere from several hours to up to a day.

    • 3

      Remove the hide from the pot and place it on a surface where you can cut it. You can create the shapes of the treats you want while the hide is still pliable. Some prefer leaving the hide flat and cutting it into smaller pieces while others prefer to roll them into bone shapes. It's your choice.

    • 4

      Dry the rawhides in a warm oven set at 200 degrees or less. The hides will dry and become hard. Remove the hides and allow them to cool.