Are Pigs Ears or Rawhide Better for Dogs?

Rawide and pig ears are better for teeth than sticks, which can splinter.

Pig's Ears Are Natural and Tasty

Dogs love to chew on pigs ears because of the flavor. The chewing is great for their teeth and provides mental stimulation, which prevents boredom. Pigs ears are cheap, but they do contain a lot of fat and can be rather messy.

Rawhide Is Great For Teeth

Rawhide is a natural dog chew that cleans the teeth. It is technically edible, but is not a particularly healthy food as it takes a long time for the dog to digest it. Rawhide is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration and therefore its safety can't be guaranteed.

Bottom Line

Both rawhide and pig ears are durable chew treats that have dental benefits. Rawhide offers more dental benefits but it is essentially tough animal skin and provides little nutrition. Pig ears, although high in fat, do contain nutrients and are generally cheaper than rawhide.

References

• Pet Education: Are Pig Ears Safe For Dogs and Puppies?
• Vet Info: How Safe Are Rawhide Dog Chews

Resources

• Placerville Vet: Dental Chew Treats