Short answer: Rawhide suits most adult dogs that love to chew, as long as it is big enough that your dog cannot swallow it in one go and you stay with them while they chew. For small dogs, the 12.5 or 13 cm bones or an XS donut make sense. For larger dogs, choose a 20 cm bone or an M or XL donut. Give rawhide as an extra within the daily treat allowance and take away any leftovers that have gone soft.
How does rawhide differ from other chews?
Dry rawhide is firm, but not as hard as antler or horn. Saliva and chewing slowly turn the hide soft and tough. That makes it kinder to the teeth than very hard chews. The downside is that a dog can tear off a softened piece and try to swallow it whole. That is why the right size and your supervision matter more with rawhide than with many other treats.
Would you like to compare rawhide with other types, for example on hardness or chewing time? Then read the overview which chew is best for your dog.
Which rawhide suits my dog?
Choose by size first and only then by flavour. If you are torn between two sizes, go for the larger one. A bone that is too small disappears faster and carries a greater choking risk.
| Product | Size and packaging | Chewing time (varies by dog) | Suitable for |
|---|
| Chew bone 12.5 cm (chicken, duck or chicken & beef) | Small, pack of 100 | Short | Small dogs that like to chew often |
| Chew bone 13 cm (chicken or duck) | Small, per 100, 400 or 500 grams | Short | Small dogs, or trying it out first with 100 grams |
| Chew bone 20 cm (chicken or duck) | Large, per 400 or 500 grams | Longer | Medium to large dogs |
| Donut XS 50 grams (chicken or duck) | Compact, pack of 20 | Short to medium | Small dogs |
| Donut M 80-90 grams (chicken or duck) | Single | Medium | Medium-sized dogs |
| Donut XL 170-190 grams (chicken or duck) | Single | Long | Large dogs and keen chewers |
As for flavour: if your dog reacts badly to chicken, try the duck varieties. Please note: all rawhide is made from beef hide, so if your dog reacts to beef, choose a different treat, such as horse head skin. Always check the label. You will find more single-protein treats under duck.
Is rawhide safe for dogs?
Rawhide is safe to give if you stick to a few basic rules. The biggest risk is not a broken tooth, but a large, soft piece getting stuck in the throat, stomach or intestines.
- Stay with your dog while they chew and do not leave rawhide in the crate when you go out.
- Take the bone or donut away once it becomes small, slippery or frayed. You can swap it for a piece of kibble if you like.
- Always have fresh water available.
- Does your dog gulp down large pieces instead of gnawing? Then rawhide is less suitable for them. Choose a different kind of chew instead.
If you notice vomiting, retching, a swollen belly or no more stools after chewing, contact your vet.
How much rawhide can you give?
All treats combined should not exceed roughly 10 per cent of daily energy intake. Rawhide with a meat coating simply counts towards that. A large donut can easily be too much for a small dog in a single day. If you give rawhide regularly, feed a little less of the main food. For most dogs, a chewing session a few times a week works well. In how many treats can a dog have per day you will find a calculation table by weight.
How do you store rawhide?
Store rawhide in a dry, cool place and keep it sealed, for example in the resealable bag or a tightly closing container. If a bone has become damp or smells musty, throw it away. Do not leave a half-chewed bone lying around for days. Wash your hands after giving rawhide.
Ingrid's tip: Do not buy a value pack straight away. Start with a single M donut or a 100-gram bag and watch how your dog chews. If they gnaw calmly, you know which size suits them. If they tear off large pieces, you have saved yourself money and a risk.
Frequently asked questions
Can a puppy have rawhide?
While the adult teeth are coming through, roughly from 3-4 to 6-7 months, softer treats in small pieces are a better choice. If you do give rawhide, choose a size they cannot swallow and always stay with them. Also read from what age can a puppy have chews.
Is rawhide good for the teeth?
Chewing can help scrape away some plaque, but rawhide does not replace brushing. See it as an addition to regular dental care.
My dog has a food allergy, can they have rawhide?
Beef and chicken are among the protein sources that most often cause food allergies in dogs. Try one protein source at a time and introduce a new treat gradually. If there are any problems, consult your vet.
Why does rawhide go slimy?
That is part of the product: saliva softens the dried hide. That is exactly when you should remove small or loose pieces.
Sources
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 these treats? Email info@canissnacks.com.
Not sure which treat suits your dog? Try the treat guide →
