Best Pig Ears for Dogs To Satisfy Their Chewing Needs

This buyer’s guide will help you make an educated decision when shopping for pig ear treats for your dog! We have also compiled a list of answers to questions that you are likely to have about them. We have done our best with our opinions and recommendations, but it is still critical that you conduct your own research before purchasing pig ears for dogs. Let’s get started!

What Is the Process of Making Pig Ears for Dogs?

These chewable snacks are a by-product of the meat industry, and unlike others, they do not include a lot of chemicals and artificial ingredients. To acquire that chewy texture and flavor your pet likes, the ears are first cooked, then dehydrated. Because pig ears are primarily skin and cartilage, making them excellent for chewing is simple with the right preparation process! They won't be as rough or abrasive as cow rawhide, but they will be demanding enough to keep your dog busy.

Artificial tastes, such as liquid smoke or similar, are sometimes added to make the snacks tastier. This is not only unneeded, but it also puts these natural snacks at risk for pets with sensitive stomachs.

What Are the Advantages of Pig Ears for Dogs?

Pig ears are a good source of protein, but they should only be given as a special treat rather than as part of a regular diet. This is due to two factors: first, they are not mineral and vitamin balanced in the way that a diet should be. Furthermore, they are heavy in fat. As a result, if consumed in excess, they may lead to obesity.

Protein is another nutrient found in pig ears, in addition to fat. Amino acids are the building blocks of different functional parts of the body, including muscles, enzymes, and antibodies. They are required for life's basic functioning as well as effective immunity.

Pig ears are difficult to chew and need some effort to eat due to their high hide content. The hardness is beneficial because it removes plaque and tartar from your dog's teeth as they chew it.

Plaque and tartar are produced when food particles and germs accumulate at the base of the teeth. If this spirals out of control, the ligaments that support the teeth to the gums might deteriorate, causing teeth to fall out. However, giving pig ears on a regular basis can help keep teeth clean and avoid dental problems.

What Are the Alternative Solutions for Pig Ears for Dogs Available in the Market?

There are various pig ear substitutes available in the market. If you want to remain with pig ears but in a new shape, several pet stores sell them in rolls that your dog can carry about.

Knucklebones and antlers are all possibilities at pet stores if you want to offer your dog a different chew that is still natural and healthful. Knucklebones, on the other hand, can cause splintering and break off fragments, which might cause obstructions in your dog's intestines. Antlers are far safer than thorns since they do not shatter or splinter, and they persist for months rather than seconds. Antlers, unfortunately, are far more costly than pig ears.

Rawhide chews are often sold in the same department as pig ears at pet shops. They may appear to be a more appealing alternative at first glance because they do not smell and are created from animal by-products. The reality, on the other hand, is less appealing.

Rawhide is made using a manufacturing technique that can leave various chemicals in the chew, which can be harmful to your dog, making it significantly less natural than it seems. Furthermore, it digests significantly more slowly in the intestines and can easily create clogs if taken in big amounts.

What Are Some Tips for Feeding Pig Ears in a Safe Way to Your Pet?

While your dog's major source of nutrients should be healthy, nutritious meals, a pig ear is an occasional fantastic treat that may give a little additional nutritional value while also keeping boredom away. Your dog may have a field day nibbling on this naturally delectable chew as long as you follow these safe feeding guidelines.

The source should be trusted

When purchasing pig ears for your dog, the usual guideline is to make sure they are from a reliable supplier. You must get a pig ear from a reliable supplier who does not employ any of these dangerous chemicals.

Wash your hands

Most natural chews include germs that can harm you. But you should be mindful that many dogs are significantly more immune to germs than humans. Many organic chews include microorganisms that may make some people sick, but they are typically safe for your dog. Pig ears are particularly problematic, as several types of pig ears have been banned over the years owing to bacterial infestation.

It is a smart option to wash your hands after touching your dog's pig ear snacks - or any snacks for that regard.

Feeding dogs at risk of obesity or with pancreatitis is not recommended

Pig ears are heavy in calories, leaving them inappropriate for obese or pancreatitis-affected dogs. As a result, your dog should completely avoid this natural chew. Luckily, you can give your dog a variety of less fatty, long-lasting snacks as a special treat!

Watch your dog when he or she is chewing

Dogs might get far away when it comes to gnawing. It is vital to keep an eye on our dogs as they bite to prevent them from choking on a huge chunk of food.

Aggressive chewers may be able to complete a pig ear quickly. This might result in a bloated stomach or digestive problems. If your dog chews a lot, we recommend restricting their chewing time, so they don't consume the entire ear in under an hour!