The Truth About Pig Ears: The Good, The Bad, And The Dangerous

Have you ever purchased an expensive dog toy only for it to be shredded into bits by your pup? Well, dogs are good chewers, and they can almost shred anything in their way.

But if they don’t have toys to chew, they will turn your favorite shoe into bits and pieces. But this doesn’t have to happen as there are many dog chews on the market. One of the best toys is called pig ears and is a popular delicacy for dogs.

The Truth About Pig Ears: The Good, The Bad, And The Dangerous

Pig ears are thick, crunchy, and safe for your dog. And if your dog loves to chew toys, then it is your best choice. Therefore, when she gets bored, she will enjoy the sweet, savory pig’s ears, which will also help her get rid of bad behaviors.

What are Pig Ears?

From its name, pig ears are dehydrated ears of a pig and specifically the ear’s pinna. This part contains cartilage and skin with fewer muscles, making them flexible and easily digestible for your dog.

Pig ears are a common trait found in many pet stores and are both irresistible and inexpensive for your pet. It is harvested humanely from the farming industry and helps utilize the slaughtered pigs.

After harvesting, the pig ear is boiled for 30 seconds before being cooled in ice water. The process removes it after that, and after that, it is dehydrated and packaged for sale.

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Are Pig Ears Good for Dogs

There has been quite a controversy on whether pig ears are bad for dogs. Most dog owners don’t like feeding their dogs with pig ears because they’re concerned it has harmful bacteria.

But in reality, pig ears are safe and healthy. It is also nutritious like most dog chews as it supplements their diet with proteins and other nutrients.

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Are Pig Ears Safe for Dogs?

Yes, pig ears are safe for dogs. However, you have to adhere to the safety tips such as getting it from reputable sources, washing them, and supervising your dog as it eats these treats.

Also, note that it has higher calories and could present health challenges in dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Pig Ears

Yes, dogs eat pig ears. Though they are though, they cannot match the other tough dog chews in the local store. They are also ideal for light chewers since your dog can chew it at its ideal speed.

How much should you give your dog?

Since pig ears have high-calorie content [1], it’s important to give them to dogs in moderation. For starters, if your dog is of medium size, then avoid giving it more than one pig ear per week.

You can adjust the amount based on the size of your dog and other considerations.

Also, Try Trachea

Consider looking into alternative chew toys that are lower in calories and fat, such as beef trachea (also called cow trachea or cow esophagus), which drastically improves oral health. The benefits don’t stop there, so you should look into how giving cow trachea for dogs is worth it.

Bottom Line

Pig ears are one of the best dog chews for your canine friend. They are healthy and are usually baked or processed before being sold in the store.

However, since they have high-calorie content, you should avoid giving them to your dog in bulk. But overall, it is a good chew toy, especially for casual chewers. If your dog is an aggressive chewer, then check out the safer dog chews available out there.

Pig Ears Are A Popular Treat For Dogs, But They Come With Some Risks

Pig ears are a popular treat for dogs, but they come with some risks. The ears are usually covered in bacteria, which can be transferred to your dog when they chew on the ear. Additionally, the ear’s cartilage can splinter and become stuck in your dog’s throat or digestive tract. Finally, pig ears are often high in fat, which can lead to weight gain or other health problems. While most dogs will enjoy pig ears safely, it’s important to monitor your dog while they chew and to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Pig Ears Can Cause Gastrointestinal Problems In Dogs, Including Vomiting And Diarrhea

While pig ears can be a tasty treat for dogs, they can also cause gastrointestinal problems, including vomiting and diarrhea. The main reason for this is that pig ears contain a high fat content, which can upset a dog’s stomach. In addition, pig ears are often coated with chemicals and other substances that can irritate a dog’s digestive system. For these reasons, it is important to be cautious when feeding pig ears to dogs. If your dog does start to experience gastrointestinal problems after eating pig ears, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.

If Your Dog Has Any Allergies Or Dietary Restrictions, You Should Avoid Giving Them Pig Ears

Many people enjoy giving their dogs pig ears as a treat, but there are a few things to keep in mind before giving them to your furry friend. For one, if your dog has any allergies or dietary restrictions, you should avoid giving them pig ears. While they are generally safe for most dogs, some may have reactions to the ingredients used in pig ear treats. 

Additionally, you should always supervise your dog while they are eating any type of treatment, as there is a risk of choking. Lastly, be sure to check the ingredients list on the package to make sure the treats do not contain any harmful chemicals or additives. When given in moderation, pig ears can be a safe and healthy treat for your dog. However, it is always best to consult with your vet before giving them to your pet.

Photo of author

Peter Newman

Peter Newman is the owner and editor for Puppy Leader. He has two dogs and loves to train them daily. Every day, Peter takes his dogs to the park and lets them run around and play together. He also trains them each day with different commands and tricks.