Short answer: Choose a lamb nose for small dogs or gentle chewers, a regular pig snout or beef nose for medium-sized dogs and a Varkensneus XXL for large dogs. Noses are crunchy and less hard than antlers or hooves, but they are still a chew. So give them under supervision, in a size your dog can't swallow whole, and count them as part of his daily food intake.
What are dried noses for dogs?
A dried nose is the nose of a lamb, pig or cow, dried into a crunchy treat. It consists mainly of skin and cartilage. Noses are high in protein. The fat content varies by species and by batch, so always go by the label. According to the label, all the noses in this collection are made from a single animal species. That's handy if you deliberately want to stick to a single protein source.
Which nose suits my dog?
Your dog's size and the way he chews determine the right choice. A dog that nibbles carefully will make a nose last longer than a dog that bites into it eagerly. The comparison below is a guide only, as every nose is a natural product and varies in size.
| Product | Size | Hardness | Chewing time | Suitable for |
|---|
| Canis Lamsneuzen Wit | Small | Light, crunchy | Short | Small dogs, gentle chewers |
| Canis Varkensneus Wit / Canis Varkensneuzen Wit | Medium | Crunchy, firm | Short to medium | Medium-sized dogs, in moderation |
| Canis Varkensneuzen Wit XXL | Large | Crunchy, firm | Medium | Large dogs, in moderation |
| Canis Runderneus Wit / Canis Runderneus Natuur | Large | Firm | Medium | Medium-sized to large dogs |
Looking for more treats from the same species? Take a look at lamb or pork. For a dog that prefers something softer, soft bites and biscuits are an alternative.
Is a nose safe for your dog?
A nose is a suitable chew for most adult dogs, provided you get a few things right:
- Choose a nose large enough that your dog can't swallow it in one go.
- Stay with him while he chews and take away the last small piece.
- Always have fresh water available.
- If your dog has a sensitive stomach, introduce a new nose gradually. Start with a small piece and give one protein source at a time. If your dog develops any problems, consult your vet.
For puppies who are teething, roughly from 3-4 to 6-7 months, small, softer treats are more comfortable. You can read what's suitable at each age in when can a puppy have chews.
How many noses can your dog have per day?
All treats combined should provide no more than about 10 per cent of daily energy intake. A lamb nose is light. A large pig snout or beef nose quickly adds up, especially for a small dog. Pig snouts are a bit fattier, so give them in moderation and not every day. On days you give a nose, reduce the main meal slightly. You can find out how to work this out in how many treats can a dog have per day.
How do you store dried noses?
Store noses in a dry, cool place in a sealed container, such as a tight-fitting tub or a closed bag. This keeps them crunchy and prevents moisture and mould. If a nose feels damp or smells different from usual, throw it away. Wash your hands after handling, as with all dried animal treats. A large pack is good value, but only choose one if you'll use it up within a reasonable time.
Ingrid's tip: Noses crumble as your dog chews. Put down an old towel or a small mat for your dog to chew on, so you can clear everything up in one go afterwards. Not sure about the size? Order a small pack or a single beef nose first and see how your dog chews.
Frequently asked questions
Can a puppy have a pig snout?
A pig snout is crunchy and firm. For teething puppies, smaller, softer treats are more comfortable. If you do give a nose, choose a small size and stay with your puppy.
What is the difference between the white and natural beef nose?
They are two versions of the beef nose. According to the label, both are made from 100 per cent beef. The choice is mainly a matter of preference.
Is a pig snout too fatty for my dog?
Pig snouts are a bit fattier than lamb or beef noses. For a healthy, active dog, an occasional nose is no problem. If your dog is overweight or has a sensitive stomach, pay extra attention to the amount.
What should I do if my dog swallows pieces quickly?
Choose a larger size so he has to chew for longer. Stay with him and remove any small leftovers. If he still swallows whole pieces, choose a different treat.
Can a dog with a sensitive stomach eat noses?
Often, yes. Start with a small piece from a single species and watch how he reacts over a few days. If problems arise, stop giving the nose and consult your vet.
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 →
