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Rawhide Alternative for Dogs - Unbiased Review

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Summary: Since writing an article about the dangers of rawhide, I have had several requests to give some alternatives to regular rawhide and dog chews. As noted in said article, there are many problems that can be associated with the use of some rawhide and chews. While there are some GREAT products made in other countries, in this article I am going to focus on a few products made in the U.S.A.

Alternatives to Rawhide

There are many products out there. Some will say American made, but be sure to read the fine print. Sometimes these companies will get some of their products from the U.S. but then send their products to other countries for processing. Don’t be fooled! Do your research and choose the product that best fits your needs and specifications.

6 Considerations When Buying Traditional Rawhide Alternatives

There are several things to consider when buying chews and rawhide.
  1. Pay more for quality: The price difference isn’t that big and the benefit of safety is worth the cost.
  2. Made in the U.S.A.: In the United States we have more rigid manufacturing laws than in many other countries. (As I mentioned above many products made in other countries are fantastic! I just prefer to keep my money in the U.S.)
  3. Ingredients: Look at the ingredients list of anything you feed your dog. Read and learn what the ingredients mean. You will be surprised by what some of those technical terms actually stand for.
  4. Shape: Yes, the shape of the chew makes a difference! I do not recommend buying the rawhide with knots on the ends. Those knots come off without much aggression from your dog and can easily end up being swallowed whole. When buying chews, try to get a simple shape.
  5. Size: Buy the right size for your dog. Most packaging has a recommended dog size for the chew. Follow the manufacturer guidelines. It’s important!
  6. Supervise: Keep an eye on your dog when he is enjoying his treat. You are your dog's best protection.
Now you might be asking yourself “where do I buy the ‘right’ dog chew?” Here are some products and companies I would recommend:
  1. Grateful Pet – Elk antler dog chew. I called this company and had a very pleasant talk with the owner, Sharon. She loves the antlers for a couple reasons. Her mastiff likes it! It lasts a very very long time and it is a good source of calcium and minerals. Sharon mentioned that her mastiff is an aggressive chewer and he hasn’t even dented his elk antler. One of the things that I liked about her product is they use freshly dropped antlers AND they are made in the U.S.A.! This is important when choosing this type of dog chew. She also said that her company doesn’t carry any products that they would not feed to their own dogs, which is reassuring.
  • Wapiti Labs - Elk Antler Chew. Extensive line of elk antler chews from their North American Elk Farm located in Minnesota.
  • Sam's Yams - Makers of a Veggie Rawhide. The company, Front Porch Pets, produces many varieties of sweet potato products. If your dog is anything like mine, she loves her fruits and veggies! This is a fun alternative to the regular treats and chews on the market.
  • American Dog Treats, Rain Crow Ranch - ALL of their products. I can’t tell you how impressed I was with this company. Their rawhide treats come from grass fed cattle (no grain or corn) that roam freely on 9,000 acres of land. Their fields and pastures are USDA certified organic! Their cattle are hormone free. This is truly an American made company and product that strives to offer fantastic quality. When I called, the phone was promptly answered and I had a fantastic conversation with Mr. Phillip Wilson. Mr. Wilson is a very intelligent gentleman with a TON of information to share. I was so impressed with this company and what they are doing. I highly recommend any of the products they have for sale. If you are interested in learning more about Rain Crow Ranch, look them up on facebook or on their website www.americangrassfedbeef.com and www.raincrowranch.com. As of today (Jan, 2012) you can purchase their beef in select markets in the eastern U.S. and a few grocery stores in California

    Not all rawhide or chews are bad. Be aware when shopping. Watch ingredients and manufacturing country. Shop smart!

    Good luck with your decision!

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