I've read some stuff about rawhide maybe being dangerous or causing tummy issues?
My puppy lovesss the rawhide and she can finish a whole stick in one day so I try to take it away sometimes.
Anyone knows how much is too much??
Thanks
Permalink Reply by Sam on August 5, 2009 at 8:21am
I would choose a larger bone that she can chew but not eat. When it gets to the point that she can start taking off pieces I would get another. Pups really need an outlet for chewing but rawhide within the tummy can pose big problems.
When I taught training classes, I would recommend rawhide or bully sticks under supervision only. I would recommend the Kong when needing something for a period of time under no supervision. Many here have told of the issues they've had and seen with the rawhides and bullies. So, when I was feeling unusually guilty for not letting them enjoy those, I bought some rawhide piggy ears and let each have one. One dog choked. All had the runs. (And seven dogs with the runs is awful!) I threw out the remainders. It just confirmed, for me, my concerns about them.
As for made in the US vs. China, it's HARD to find US rawhide products. I know at PetSmart we carry tons of rawhides and almost all are made outside the US. However, the biggest bullie recall was for a company who produced in Alabama.
What it all boils down to is (1) knowing your dog, and (2) being a smart consumer.