Pig ears are a popular, protein-rich dog treat that can promote dental health and satisfy chewing instincts, but they are high in fat and calories, requiring moderation to avoid weight gain or pancreatitis, and pose choking risks for "gulpers," with past contamination warnings for Salmonella, so supervision and choosing reputable brands are crucial.
Some vets may recommend pig ears as a treat for dogs in moderation, while others may advise against it due to the potential risks associated with them, such as bacterial contamination, choking, and digestive issues.
Generally, pig ears should be considered an occasional treat rather than a daily snack. For small dogs, offering a pig ear once or twice a week may be sufficient.
After consuming pig's ears, dogs can develop symptoms like excessive thirst, weakness, shivering, and difficulty moving. These signs may indicate dehydration, bacterial contamination, or pancreatitis. Immediate veterinary evaluation is crucial.
Pig ears are a safer alternative to rawhide because they are more digestible and provide nutritional benefits like glucosamine and essential amino acids. Unlike rawhide, which poses risks of toxicity and blockages, pig ears offer cleaner teeth and behavioral benefits as a natural chew.
The healthiest dog chews are often natural, single-ingredient options like bully sticks, collagen chews, trachea chews, kangaroo wings, or dried fish, offering protein and dental benefits, while dental chews (VOHC-approved) fight plaque; carrots, goat horns, or frozen Kongs are great alternatives, but always supervise chewing and avoid hard, cooked bones or antlers that can splinter.
Dental hygiene chews can also help to reduce the effects of gingivitis, but some chews can actually make your pet's oral health worse. Treats such as cow hooves, pig's ears, and animal bones can damage teeth and cause other problems if ingested. Your vet can help you choose items that are healthiest for your pet.
Pig ears are high in protein and fat, making them appealing to most dogs. However, their high fat content can contribute to weight gain if given in excess, especially in dogs prone to obesity or pancreatitis. Additionally, pig ears should be fed in moderation to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
Cow ears are often considered a healthier alternative to other treats like pig ears because they are lower in fat and more digestible. They're also free from artificial additives or preservatives, making them a more natural option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
The Benefits Of Pig Ears For Dogs
They're soft and easy on the teeth … so they're good chews for dogs with sensitive teeth or dogs who prefer a leisurely chew. Gnawing on ears helps remove plaque and tartar, promoting dental health … and chewing helps keep your dog's gums healthy too.
Health benefits of pig ears for dogs
The act of chewing on pig ears promotes dental health by helping to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to healthier teeth and gums. The repeated chewing is similar to the motion of toothbrushing and helps keep their teeth nice and white.
A gentler choice than other types of chews, Pigs Ears are the ideal choice for the dog who likes to savour their flavourful treats, keeping them entertained and focused. Safe for puppies and senior dogs alike, these tough textured treats work wonders for reducing plaque and keeping their smile sparkling.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach or is prone to gastrointestinal upset, like diarrhea or vomiting, pig ears may cause them issues. High in fat. Pig ears are also high in fat, which means they are calorie dense. Overfeeding pig ears can lead to both weight gain and pancreatitis if overfed.
Pigs ears are high in protein at 66%. Protein is full of amino acids meaning it's great for their body and immunity health. Fat is 22.5% , therefore they should only be given as a treat not daily. You can also give your dog half of the ear by taking it off them once they've chewed enough.
The primary symptoms of ear allergies in pets include itching, redness, swelling, and an unusual odor coming from the ears. Pets may also shake their heads frequently, scratch at their ears, or exhibit signs of pain and discomfort.
The most appropriate age to feed pigs' ears to dogs is around six months old. Puppies are still developing up until a certain age, so it's important to watch out for what you're feeding them - whether it be pig ears or not. Pigs' ears make a great chew for dogs, helping strengthen their jaw and clean their teeth.
What are the most safe dog chews?
Pig's ears can become a choking hazard and cause an intestinal blockage. They can also harbor dangerous bacteria and are greasy, which can upset your pet's stomach.
Satisfying Chewy Treat: Dogs love to chew – it's a natural instinct. Pig ears are thick, tough, and delightfully chewy, satisfying your pet's urge to gnaw. This can help keep your dog occupied, ensuring they aren't gnawing on your shoes or furniture.
Additionally, the CDC and FDA recommend that retailers (including online retailers) stop selling all pig ear pet treats. Dogs might get sick after eating an infected pig ear and people can get sick after handling the treats or caring for dogs who ate them.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, spread out the pig's ears, and bake until thoroughly dried out—anywhere between 6 to 10 hours, depending on your oven temperature and how crispy you want the ears to be—flip them once roughly around the cooking mid-point. If using your smoker: Heat to 250° F.
Between pig ears' firm texture and your dog's chewing action, enjoying a pig ear is a sneaky way for your dog to help support their dental health! As your dog chews, it helps reduce tartar and plaque—the culprits of bad breath.
“Mild cases of diarrhea in both cats and dogs can be treated at home by feeding a bland diet such as boiled chicken or low-fat hamburger, and white rice,” says Miller. Cooked pasta is another option. These foods are easy to digest, so they give your dog's GI tract a break.
Pig ears can actually help clean their teeth due to their soft texture (differently to bones or rawhide), and are much safer as they won't risk breaking their teeth on them.