Short answer: Beef ears are large, sturdy and, according to our labels, the leanest, which makes them a good fit for medium-sized and large dogs. Rabbit and lamb ears are small and thin, handy for small dogs and as a snack between meals. Pig ears are popular, but their fat content varies widely; give the fattier types only now and then. Always choose a size your dog cannot swallow in one go.
What types of ears for dogs are there?
Dried ears are the ear flaps of cattle, pigs, rabbits, lambs, goats or buffalo. They consist mainly of skin and cartilage, are rich in protein and much less hard than bone, antler or horn. Within each animal type you will see three more differences:
- Size: a beef ear is much larger than a rabbit ear. With pig ears you can choose between whole ears and ear pieces.
- With or without fur: an ear with fur still has the coat attached.
- White or natural: these variants differ in the way they are cleaned and dried. You can see it in the colour and smell it in the odour.
The full range is in the ears for dogs collection, with a buying guide per size below the products.
How do beef, pig and rabbit ears differ?
We compared the labels of our own ears. The fat content below is the crude fat as stated on the label. It varies from batch to batch, so the label on your pack is what counts.
| Type | Size | Firmness | Fat according to our label | Suits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef ears | Large | Firm | About 2 to 3 percent | Medium-sized and large dogs, including strong chewers |
| Buffalo ears | Medium | Firm | Not stated | Strong chewers of medium size |
| Pig ears and ear pieces | Medium, pieces smaller | Crunchy | About 8 to 37 percent, depending on the type | Now and then, preferably not with a sensitive stomach |
| Goat ears | Medium | Crunchy | About 22 to 33 percent | Medium-sized dogs, variety in protein source |
| Lamb ears | Small to medium | Thin | About 29 to 31 percent | Small and medium-sized dogs |
| Rabbit ears | Small | Thin, crunchy | About 11 to 28 percent | Small dogs, between meals |
Two things stand out. According to our labels, beef ears are by far the leanest. And with rabbit and pig ears, the white variants contain less fat than the natural or medium variants. So if you are looking for a lean ear, look not only at the animal but also at the variant.
With or without fur: what is the difference?
With an ear with fur, the coat has been left on. On the label you can see this as slightly more crude fibre: that is the indigestible part. Some dogs actually enjoy chewing on the rougher texture. If you give an ear with fur for the first time, start with a small piece and see how your dog responds. Without fur, the ear is smoother and a little easier to eat for many dogs.
Which ear suits a small or a large dog?
Always start with the size. The ear must be large enough that your dog cannot swallow it in one go. Then look at how your dog chews.
- Small dogs: rabbit and lamb ears are thin and small. You can also break a large beef ear into pieces, as long as the pieces do not get too small.
- Medium-sized dogs: goat, lamb and pig ears are a good fit, as are buffalo ears for dogs that chew hard.
- Large dogs: choose beef ears. Small ears are finished too quickly by a large dog and can be swallowed whole.
- Gulpers: choose an ear that is larger than your dog's size would suggest, and stay with them.
Which ear should you choose for a sensitive stomach or allergy?
Choose an ear from a single animal type that your dog tolerates well, and try one new ear at a time. Beef is often mentioned as a source of food allergy; if your dog reacts to beef, rabbit, goat or lamb ears are an alternative. If your dog mainly struggles with fatty treats, choose a lean ear instead, such as a beef ear, as long as they tolerate beef well. If the symptoms persist, consult your vet. You can read more about allergy in grain-free dog treats and allergy.
How many ears can your dog have?
For all treats together, the rule of thumb is about 10 percent of the daily energy. A large ear counts for a lot with a small dog, and a fatty pig ear even more than a lean beef ear. If you give an ear on a particular day, give a few fewer other treats or a little less of the main food. How to work that out for your dog is explained in how many treats can a dog have per day.
How do you give ears as safely as possible?
- Stay with your dog: the biggest risk with ears is not a broken tooth, but a piece that is too large being swallowed in one go.
- Remove the last piece: as soon as the ear is small enough to be swallowed.
- Put out fresh water: dried treats make dogs thirsty.
- Mind hygiene: store ears dry and closed and wash your hands after giving them.
- Puppies: our ears are intended for adult dogs. What is suitable for puppies is explained in from what age can a puppy have chews.
Ingrid's tip: If you are unsure between two types, order a small pack of both first. The way your dog chews quickly shows you which ear fits: do they nibble calmly, or try to finish it in one go? That tells you more than their weight.
Frequently asked questions
Are pig ears bad for dogs?
No, but on average they are fattier than beef ears, and the difference between types is large. Give them now and then and, for a sensitive stomach, choose a lean ear instead.
Which ear is the leanest?
According to our labels, beef ears are the leanest, at about 2 to 3 percent fat. With rabbit and pig ears, the white variants contain less fat than the natural variants.
Can I break a beef ear into pieces for a small dog?
Yes, you can. Just make sure the pieces do not get so small that your dog swallows them in one go, and stay with them.
Can puppies have ears?
Our ears are intended for adult dogs. For puppies, choose soft treats in small pieces and build up gradually.
How do you store dried ears?
Dry, dark and well closed. That way they stay crunchy and do not absorb moisture.
Sources
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, Global Nutrition Guidelines (treats as part of the daily energy intake)
- Mueller, Olivry and Prélaud (BMC Veterinary Research), Critically appraised topic on adverse food reactions of companion animals (2): common food allergen sources in dogs and cats (beef as a frequently mentioned allergen source)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Tips for Safe Handling of Pet Food and Treats (storage and hygiene)
About the author
Ingrid Kooijman is the founder of Canis Snacks. She selects natural single-protein dog treats, sells them online and at markets in Brabant, and answers dog owners' questions about food and chews every day. Questions about this article? Email info@canissnacks.com.
