As a pet owner, you want to give your dog the best—whether it’s food, toys, or treats. However, one popular chewing material you might find in pet stores across the country could be putting your beloved French Brittany at risk: rawhide. This article explores why rawhide is dangerous for French Brittany dogs and suggests safer alternatives.

What is Rawhide?

Rawhide is made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides. During manufacturing, the hide is cleaned and cut or formed into various shapes for dogs to chew1. It’s a common sight in pet stores due to its low cost and long-lasting nature, which can provide dogs with hours of entertainment.

The Risks of Rawhide

Despite its popularity, rawhide poses several health risks, particularly for breeds like the French Brittany. One of the main dangers is choking or intestinal blockage. Strong chewers, like French Brittanys, can break off large chunks of rawhide, which can pose a choking hazard or cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed1.

Additionally, rawhide chews have been found to contain harmful substances. Some rawhides are coated with chemicals like formaldehyde and arsenic, and even bleach2. When tested, they’ve shown traces of lead, arsenic, mercury, and other toxic metals3. These substances can cause serious health problems in dogs, including digestive issues, poisoning, and even death.

There’s also a risk of bacterial contamination. E. coli, for example, has been found in some rawhide products4. This not only puts your dog at risk but also poses a threat to human health.

Safe Alternatives to Rawhide

Given these risks, rawhide should never be given as a Christmas gift or reward to your French Brittany. Instead, consider safer alternatives.

One option is chew toys made from natural rubber or high-quality nylon. These materials are durable and safe for dogs to chew on. Some toys can even be filled with treats to keep your dog entertained for longer5.

Another alternative is edible chews, like bully sticks or dental chews. These products are digestible, reducing the risk of choking or blockage. However, they should still be given under supervision.

Here is where we get the very best, safe healthy treats for our Epagneul Bretons

In Conclusion

While rawhide might seem like a good chew toy for your French Brittany, the potential risks far outweigh the benefits. This Christmas, instead of risking your pet’s health with a rawhide gift, opt for safer alternatives that your dog will love just as much, if not more.