Rawhide dog chews have long been popular, but concerns about their safety have driven many pet owners to seek healthier, more natural alternatives. With issues such as digestibility, choking hazards, and chemical processing, it’s no wonder that more people are turning to rawhide alternatives. In this guide, we explore the best natural alternatives to rawhide, each offering unique benefits and safety for your dog. All recommendations are available from The Pet’s Larder.
Choosing safe alternatives to rawhide is essential for protecting your pup's health.
Rawhide chews, made from the inner layer of animal hides, have raised several health concerns:
Digestibility: Rawhide can be tough for some dogs to digest, potentially causing blockages in the digestive system.
Chemical Processing: Some rawhide products are treated with chemicals during manufacturing, which can pose health risks.
Choking Hazards: Rawhide can splinter or break into small pieces, creating a choking risk or leading to intestinal blockages.
Rawhide and cooked bones can both pose risks to a dog's health, as cooked bones may splinter and cause serious injury or digestive issues. Choosing the right chew is important for maintaining a balanced dog's diet and supporting overall dog's health.
Because of these risks, pet owners are increasingly turning to natural alternatives that provide the same enjoyment and benefits as rawhide without compromising their dog’s health.
When searching for the best rawhide alternative, pet owners should prioritize products that support their dog’s health and well-being. A high-quality rawhide alternative is made from natural ingredients, such as sweet potato chews, bully sticks, or tendon chews, which deliver essential nutrients and support joint health. These chews are highly digestible, minimising the risk of digestive issues that can arise from traditional rawhide. It’s important to select chews that come in different shapes, sizes, and textures to suit various breeds and chewing strengths, ensuring every dog can enjoy a satisfying and safe chewing experience. Additionally, the best alternatives are free from harmful chemicals, artificial preservatives, and additives, providing a healthy, natural treat that pet owners can trust. By choosing chews that are both nutritious and safe, you’re giving your dog a treat that supports their overall health and happiness.
Here are some of the best rawhide alternatives that you can find at The Pet's Larder, each selected for their safety, durability, and health benefits.
Pizzle, also known as bully sticks, is a highly digestible, natural dog chew made from 100% beef muscle. Bully sticks provide a satisfying chew that fulfils your dog's natural urge to chew. These long-lasting chews are great for maintaining dental health while satisfying your dog’s natural urge to chew.
Benefits:
Easily digestible, making it safe for dogs of all sizes.
High in protein and low in fat.
Helps maintain oral hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar.
The Moon Bone is an all-natural, air-dried beef bone. Its tough texture makes it an excellent choice for strong chewers and is also ideal for aggressive chewers due to its durability. Unlike rawhide, Moon Bones are free from chemicals and additives, ensuring a safe chewing experience for your dog.
Benefits:
Long-lasting, ideal for heavy chewers and aggressive chewers.
Rich in nutrients, particularly calcium and phosphorus.
Completely natural and free from chemicals.
Ostrich bones are a hypoallergenic alternative to rawhide, making them suitable for dogs with sensitivities. These bones are packed with nutrients, low in fat, and extremely durable, providing hours of chewing satisfaction.
Benefits:
Hypoallergenic, perfect for dogs with allergies.
Low in fat and high in protein.
Long-lasting and gentle on the digestive system.
Pig's ears are a classic rawhide alternative, loved by dogs for their natural taste and chewy texture. These single-ingredient treats are a great source of protein and are easily digestible, making them a safe and natural choice for your dog.
Benefits:
High in protein and easily digestible.
Helps promote dental health by reducing plaque and tartar.
100% natural, free from additives.
Earth Animal No-Hide chews are a safe and easily digestible alternative to rawhide. These chews are made with high-quality, natural ingredients, and are designed to be long-lasting while promoting healthy teeth and gums.
Benefits:
100% digestible, ensuring your dog's safety.
Made with natural, high-quality ingredients.
Promotes dental health by reducing plaque and tartar.
Product Description: NAW Buffalo chews are made from 100% natural buffalo hide and are a great alternative to traditional rawhide. These chews are tough, long-lasting, and free from chemicals, making them a safe option for your dog.
Benefits:
Choosing the right chew for your dog involves considering several factors:
Dog's Size and Breed: Ensure the chew is appropriate for your dog’s size and breed. Different breeds and sizes require different types of chews to ensure safety and effectiveness. Larger breeds may require more durable chews, while smaller breeds may need something easier to manage.
Chewing Habits: If your dog is an aggressive chewer, opt for something tough like the Moon Bone or NAW Buffalo Chew. For gentler chewers, options like Earth Animal No-Hide Chews might be more suitable.
Puppies: For puppies, select chews that are softer and suitable for teething. Options like bully sticks, sweet potato chews, and tendon chews can help with dental health and overall growth.
Dietary Needs: Choose chews that complement your dog’s diet. For instance, ostrich bones are low in fat and hypoallergenic, making them ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
Digestibility: Make sure the chew you select is easily digestible, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Dental Health: Select chews that help clean your dog's teeth and support their oral hygiene by reducing plaque and strengthening teeth.
Safety: Always opt for products from reputable brands that use natural ingredients and avoid chemical processing.
Safety should always be at the forefront when introducing new chews or treats into your dog’s routine. Rawhide chews, while popular, can pose a choking risk—especially for smaller dogs—and may cause blockages in the digestive tract if not properly monitored. The safety of rawhide alternatives generally depends on the product and the company's commitment to quality and transparency in production. When selecting rawhide alternatives, opt for products from reputable brands like Earth Animal, which are committed to using natural ingredients and prioritising pet safety. Always supervise your dog when they’re enjoying a new chew, and pay close attention to their behavior and any changes in their health. If you notice any signs of discomfort or digestive issues, consult your veterinarian promptly. Regularly inspect chews for wear and tear, and replace them as needed to prevent accidental ingestion of small pieces. By staying vigilant and choosing safe, natural alternatives, you can help ensure your dog enjoys their treats without unnecessary risks.
Chewing provides more than just entertainment for your dog. Here are some of the key benefits:
Chewing is more than just a pastime for dogs—it’s a vital part of their daily routine that offers multiple health benefits. Rawhide alternatives like bully sticks and fish skin chews provide lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting your dog’s overall health and a shiny coat. Sweet potato chews, made from dried sweet potato, are a fantastic source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent addition to a balanced diet. These natural chews not only satisfy your dog’s urge to chew but also deliver essential nutrients that contribute to their well-being. When choosing a rawhide alternative, consider the nutritional profile and how it fits into your dog’s dietary needs, ensuring the treat complements their regular meals. By selecting chews that offer both mental stimulation and health benefits, you’re supporting your dog’s physical and emotional health with every tasty treat.
Maintaining your dog’s dental health is crucial, and the right rawhide alternatives can make a big difference. Chewing on options like tendon chews, elk antlers, or other satisfying chews helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, promoting healthy teeth and gums. Antlers are rich in minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which further aid in dental health. The chewy texture of these alternatives massages your dog’s gums and helps clean their teeth naturally, supporting oral hygiene and fresh breath. Unlike rawhide, which can be tough to digest and may cause issues for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies, these alternatives are designed to be gentle on both teeth and the digestive system. By incorporating dental-friendly chews into your dog’s routine, you’re helping to prevent dental problems and ensuring your pup enjoys a healthy, happy smile.
Introducing a new chew to your dog should be done gradually to ensure they enjoy it safely:
When choosing rawhide alternatives, products like Pizzle, Moon Bones, Ostrich Bones, Pig's Ears, Earth Animal No-Hide Chews, NAW Buffalo Chews, and Himalayan chews offer a healthier and safer option for your dog. Himalayan chews, made from yak and cow milk, provide a long-lasting chew experience that is safe to swallow. These natural chews provide the same enjoyment as rawhide while eliminating the risks. Visit The Pet's Larder to find the best options for your dog's chewing needs.
TEDDY Talks was created by Katy Peck, a passionate dog advocate with years of hands-on experience in behaviour, training, and nutrition. As the co-founder of one of Cornwall’s busiest dog day care centres, Katy helped care for up to 80 dogs a day, learning first-hand what makes dogs feel calm, confident, and understood.
In 2018, she brought that knowledge into the world of natural nutrition by opening a pet shop focused on healthy, wholesome choices — supporting thousands of customers with thoughtful advice, honest information, and a personal touch.
TEDDY Talks is the natural next step: a way to take everything we’ve shared in person and make it available to every dog lover, everywhere. These free downloads and training tools are built from real experience, not just theory — and grounded in kindness, patience, and the belief that when we understand why, we can teach how.
If your dog is constantly scratching at their ears, shaking their head, or giving off a funky smell that reminds you of popcorn, cheese, or bread — they might be dealing with yeasty ears. Yeast overgrowth in dogs is common,...
Hello, my lovely human! 🐾 It’s me, your puppy — the one who’s been nibbling on everything from socks to chair legs. I thought it might help if I explain why I chew, what’s happening inside me, and how we can...
Love, your puppy 🐾 Hello my favourite human! 👋It’s me again — your puppy — here to talk about something a little... embarrassing:Why I sometimes have accidents in the house. (I really don’t mean to!) I promise I'm trying my...
