Are Pig Ears Good for Dogs?

Are pig ears good for dogs?

No, pig ears treats are not good for dogs. Pig ear are like the human equivalent of junk food - it should be consumed in small amounts. They are rich in fat which can help dogs with muscle maintenance and energy. However, overconsumption can lead to obesity, diarrhea, or pancreatitis.

In this article, we address the concerns associated with feeding pig ear treats to dogs and present alternative options for animal-based dog treats. 

Are pig ear dog treats similar to rawhide?

Pig ears and rawhides are both high-protein dog treats. They also can reduce plaque and tartar build-up on a dog’s teeth. However, they come from different sources: pig ears are ears from hogs, while rawhide is made from the inner layer of cowhide.

In addition, pig ears and rawhides are a choking hazard. Dogs find these treats so enjoyable that they swallow big pieces whole in their excitement. This is dangerous because it might block their airway, making it hard for them to breathe and causing a choking emergency. While any dog could choke on a pig ear treat, dogs with strong food motivations and smaller breeds would both be at risk.

The similar physical toughness and fat in both pig ears and rawhides make them harder for dogs to digest, leading to gastrointestinal problems and weight gain. Only giving pig ear treats in moderation could be a middle ground for dog owners.

Are dried pig ears safe for dogs?

Whether air-dried or baked, dried pig ears are not completely safe for dogs. Despite being a tasty treat, they can be a choking hazard if they break into sharp pieces. Dried pig ears can cause diarrhea or vomiting due to their high fat content or bacterial contamination if the drying process is not properly controlled.

If you still want to give your dog a dried pig ear treat, purchase from reputable sources and monitor your dog’s reaction carefully. Otherwise, raw beef or lamb marrow bones are a safer alternative to dried pig ears. 

Are smoked pig ears good for dogs? 

Smoked pig ears are riskier for dogs than dried or raw ones. In addition to the digestive issues, choking hazards, and weight gain concerns that pig ears have, smoked ones also contain harmful chemicals and preservatives. The smoking process can even introduce possible carcinogens into the dog treat. 

Can puppies have pig ear treats?

Pig ear treats for puppies (dogs under 6 months) is a topic for debate, but we recommend a safer alternative treat. Puppies have baby teeth that cannot chew pig ears properly, potentially leading to dental issues or choking. In addition, pig ears are fatty, which is tough on a puppy’s sensitive digestive system.

Are pig ears good for small dogs?

Pig ears are mostly large and tough, posing a choking hazard for small dogs. Small dogs also have more sensitive digestive systems that could be prone to pancreatitis as well as delicate teeth. However, if you choose to give your small dog pig ear treats, do so in moderation and watch closely for any adverse reactions.

Pig Ear Dog Treats Alternatives

If you're looking for alternatives to pig ear dog treats, here are good ones to substitute:

• Whole cow ears: Made from cow cartilage and packed with protein and collagen, cow ear treats support muscle maintenance and healthy joints by supporting flexibility. Collagen also promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat by improving skin elasticity and reducing dryness. Unlike pig ears, whole cow ears are low in fat, making them easier on your dog’s digestive system.

• Turkey tendons: Dried turkey tendons are packed with protein, collagen and are low in fat, which makes them gentle on sensitive stomachs. Turkey tendons support joint health for your dog and provide a satisfying chew for your dog.
• Chicken feet: Dried chicken feet are crunchy and full of protein, collagen, and glucosamine. They’re good for joint health and help with dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar. In addition, they are lower in fat compared to pig ears.
• Beef pizzle: Made from the dried penis of a bull, pizzles are more durable than pig ears, providing a long-lasting chew. They are also high in protein, which supports muscle maintenance and overall health. Additionally, beef pizzles' tough texture helps clean your dog’s teeth by reducing plaque and tartar buildup as they chew.
• Yak bars: Yak bars are made from a mixture of yak milk, lime juice, and salt. They are extremely hard and durable, ideal for aggressive chewers and large dogs. Due to their milk content, yak bars are also low in fat and high in protein and calcium.
• Rabbit ears: Constituting mostly cartilage, dried rabbit ears offer a lean and nutritious treat. They are lower in fat than pig ears and packed with protein and collagen, making them a good option for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.
• Dried fish skins: Dried fish skins, such as cod, are low in fat and high in omega-3 fatty acids, which benefits your dog’s skin and coat. Dogs love the fishy taste, and the crunchy texture provides mental stimulation. In addition, fish skins are less greasy than pig ears and generally gentle on the stomach. The chewy texture also helps clean your dog’s teeth and reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

• Dried sweet potatoes: Containing vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, dried sweet potatoes offer a nutritious, low-fat treat that is easy on the digestive system and provides a good source of dietary fiber. Plus, their natural sweetness is very appealing to dogs.
• Deer antlers: Deer antlers are solid bone structures that grow on the head of a male deer and are shed after each breeding season. As a dog treat, they are rich in calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals supporting dental health and bone strength. However, they are very hard and might be too tough for some dogs’ teeth leading to possible dental problems. 
• Lamb ears: Lamb ears are a chewy treat rich in protein and collagen. They are lower in fat compared to pig ears, making them gentler on sensitive stomachs.
• Lamb bones, or horns: Lamb bones (knuckles or marrow bones) are rich in essential canine minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are important for strong bones and teeth. Lamb horn treats are also rich in minerals and high in protein. They are naturally durable making them a very long-lasting dog treat.  Both lamb bones and horns have a hard texture, which helps clean your dog’s teeth by scraping away plaque and tartar. However, you should monitor your dog closely to avoid potential splintering or breakage that could pose a choking hazard or cause long-term dental issues.

Are pig ear treats good for dogs?

Generally, pig eat treats are considered a subpar treat for dogs; healthier alternatives exist. The biggest concern is the high fat content which can lead to diarrhea, obesity, or pancreatitis, especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs. In addition, if not chewed properly, pig ear treats pose a choking hazard. If you choose to feed your dog pig ears, do so in moderation and monitor your dog for adverse reactions.

On the other hand, pig ear treats are a rich source of protein and fat, which help with muscle maintenance, tissue repair, and energy. They are also high in glucosamine and chondroitin, which relieves osteoarthritis. 

If any concerns arise when feeding your dog pig ear treats, please consult a veterinarian for advice.