Dog and puppy owners have a number of choices when considering different dog bones and chews to provide their pets. In general, the cost between the different options is minimal, which makes the price less of a factor than safety, nutrition, and quality.
To help consider the pros and cons of different dog bones and chews, here is a rundown of the most popular options. By considering the differences, both positive and negative, dog owners can make an informed choice.
Raw Bones
Raw bones, specifically knuckle and joint bones, are a healthy option for any dog. They offer top health benefits for oral health as well as provide nutritional value. Raw bones are very messy to feed indoors and even outdoors. It will be important to monitor the dog with the bone, as with all bones and chews, and remove the bone if it begins to splinter or if it becomes small enough to possibly be swallowed.
Bones are also going to attract flies and insects. This means ensuring bones are disposed of after the dog is finished chewing.
Rawhide
While easy to find in any grocery or pet store, rawhide bones, both shredded and pressed and whole rawhide bones, are not recommended by vets, breeders, and dog nutritionists. They are virtually devoid of any nutritional value, and they pose a risk for both choking and the possibility of blockages in the intestinal tract. This is due to the digestibility issues with the rawhide, with 15% undigested after 24 hours in the body.
Pork Chews
There are options in dog bones and chews which are made from baked pork skin, chicken, peanut butter and milk, which are all healthy ingredients. These chews are fully consumed by the dog so there is no mess, and they have the added advantage of being fully digested within 24 hours.
These healthy chews and bones are ideal for dogs of all ages. They are also supplemented with vitamins and minerals, adding nutritional value while satisfying your dog’s urge to chew.
