Treats are great as a training aid, a distraction, or perhaps just as a treat in its own right. However, all treats are not created equal; some can give your dog an upset stomach and even cause harm. Let’s look at some common dog treats…

Rawhide

Chewing rawhide sticks and bones can be good for your dog’s teeth by keeping them clean. They can provide mental stimulation and alleviate anxiety too. However, the biggest risk is choking or blockages. They can also contain trace amounts of toxic chemicals. Salmonella or E. coli contamination is a possibility and this can be a risk to people as well. Some dogs are intolerant or allergic to rawhide and other chemicals used in their manufacture. This can cause stomach upset and skin irritation.

General tips

• Check where your treats are manufactured. Treats made in the Western World (UK, Europe and USA), are usually considered safer than treats made elsewhere.
• If you decide to give rawhide treats to your dog, keep an eye on them and keep children away while the dog is eating. If disturbed, your dog may try to eat quicker, increasing the risk of choking. Some dogs are also more aggressive when they think their food might be taken away from them.