Dogs love treats, but have you ever wondered whether it's safe for them to eat treats with fur still on them? While it might seem unusual to us, furry treats—like cow ears, Beef skin, Pork trotters or other natural chews—offer a range of benefits for dogs.
Not only do they provide a satisfying chew, but they can also support digestive health, act as a natural de-wormer, and even help clean teeth.
In this blog, we'll dive into why furry treats might be a great addition to your pup's diet, what to watch out for, and how to choose the best options for your furry friend.
Dogs eating fur is generally considered normal behaviour and not harmful in most cases.
Understanding Normal vs. Problematic Fur Ingestion
So, when is it Ok:
- Natural Grooming Behaviour: Dogs often groom themselves or other dogs, which can involve licking and chewing fur. This behaviour is a natural part of their routine.
- Ingesting Loose Fur: When dogs groom themselves or shed, they may ingest loose fur. In small amounts, this fur usually passes through their digestive system without any issues.
- Instinctual Behaviour: Dogs might chew on fur as part of their instinctual behaviour to keep their coats clean and free of parasites.
When is it NOT ok:
- Excessive Grooming: If a dog is excessively grooming and ingesting large amounts of fur, it could lead to digestive issues, such as blockages.
- Allergies or Skin Conditions: Excessive licking and chewing might indicate an underlying skin condition or allergy that needs veterinary attention.
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Behavioural Issues: Compulsive licking or chewing can be a sign of anxiety or boredom, and addressing these underlying issues is important for the dog's well-being.
If you notice that your dog is ingesting large amounts of fur or showing signs of distress, it's a good idea to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any potential health issues.
The Surprising Advantages of Feeding Your Dog Treats with Fur On.
Digestive Health
Fur can act as a natural source of fibre, aiding in digestion and helping to clean the digestive tract.
As a natural source of fibre and aiding in digestion it can help to facilitate regular bowel movements. Fur acts similarly to the fibre found in fruits and vegetables. This fibre can help maintain healthy digestion and prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool.
The rough texture of dog treats with fur on can help clean the digestive tract by moving through the system and potentially removing residual waste material.
Some experts believe that the natural bacteria found on fur-covered treats can support gut health by introducing beneficial probiotics, although this area requires more research.
Dental Health
Chewing on fur-covered treats can help clean a dog’s teeth and gums, promoting better dental health. It creates a natural abrasive action that helps remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of periodontal disease and promotes healthier gums.
Chewing helps strengthen a dog’s jaw muscles and promotes overall oral health.
Chewing also massages the gums, which can improve blood circulation and overall gum health.
Mental Stimulation
Chewing on fur-covered treats can provide mental stimulation and help alleviate boredom, which can be particularly beneficial for dogs that spend a lot of time alone or have high energy levels.
Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs and providing appropriate items for them to chew can help prevent destructive chewing on household items.
Chewing is an instinctual activity for dogs. Providing appropriate chewing materials can reduce stress and anxiety, promoting overall mental well-being.
Chewing on complex textures like fur requires problem-solving and can keep a dog mentally engaged, which is beneficial for preventing cognitive decline in older dogs.
Essential Safety Checks Before Giving Furry Treats
Quality and Source
Ensure that the treats come from a reputable source and are free from harmful chemicals or parasites. Ensure treats come from ethically sourced animals. High-quality suppliers such as Farmer Pete’s often provide information about their sourcing practices.
Look for treats that have been minimally processed to retain their natural benefits but have undergone sufficient sanitation to eliminate harmful pathogens.
Ensure that the treats come from reputable suppliers who adhere to safety and hygiene standards. Poorly sourced treats may carry harmful chemicals, pesticides, or parasites.
Check that the treats have been properly processed to eliminate any potential pathogens that could harm your dog.
Digestive Sensitivity
Some dogs might have sensitive stomachs and could experience digestive upset when eating treats with fur. Introduce such treats gradually to your dog's diet and monitor your dog’s reaction to any potential digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Some dogs may have sensitive stomachs or allergies that make them react poorly to fur. If you notice any adverse reactions, discontinue use, and consult your veterinarian.
When introducing any new treat, especially one with fur, watch for signs of digestive distress like vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas. If any of these occur, discontinue use, and consult a veterinarian.
Incorporate fur-covered treats into a balanced diet. Over-reliance on any single type of treat can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Choking Hazard
Ensure the treat is an appropriate size for your dog to prevent choking. Choose treats that match your dog’s size and chewing habits. Large dogs can handle bigger treats, while smaller dogs need appropriately sized ones to prevent choking. Supervise your dog while they are chewing on the treat.
Keep an eye on how your dog consumes the treat. Some dogs may try to swallow large pieces whole, which can be dangerous.
Always supervise your dog when giving them a new type of treat. This ensures they are chewing it properly and reduces the risk of choking or swallowing large pieces.
Frequency and Quantity
Treats with fur should be given in moderation. Overconsumption can lead to digestive issues, such as blockages or imbalances in diet. Ensure that these treats are part of a balanced diet and do not replace regular, nutritionally complete meals.
Even healthy treats should be given in moderation. Too many can upset the balance of your dog's regular diet and lead to obesity or other health issues.
Consider how these treats fit into your dog's overall diet plan. They should complement, not replace, the main meals which should provide complete and balanced nutrition.
Don't Forget: Allergies, Environmental Impact, and Treat Variety
Allergies and Sensitivities
Some dogs may be allergic to specific proteins found in animal fur. If your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, redness, or swelling, discontinue the treat immediately and consult a veterinarian.
Intolerance is different from an allergy and can include digestive upset without the immune response. Monitor your dog and adjust accordingly.
Environmental Impact
Choose treats from suppliers that use sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. This ensures that your choices are not only good for your dog but also for the planet.
Variety in Treats
Rotate different types of treats to provide a variety of nutrients and avoid the potential build-up of any single substance. This also keeps your dog interested and excited about their treats.
Different textures provide different benefits. Soft treats can be easier on older dogs’ teeth, while harder, fur-covered treats provide more dental benefits.
Conclusion
Treats with fur can be a beneficial and enjoyable addition to your dog’s diet when sourced and used correctly.
Incorporating treats with fur into your dog’s diet can offer several health benefits, including improved digestion, dental health, and mental stimulation and fulfill their natural chewing instincts. To ensure these treats are a safe and a beneficial addition, it is important to choose high-quality treats, introduce them gradually, and monitor your dog to ensure they are safe and beneficial. Focus on quality sourcing, monitor for any digestive or allergic reactions, and maintain a balanced approach to their diet.
As always, consulting with your veterinarian can provide personalised guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.
If you're uncertain about giving your dog treats with fur, consult your veterinarian to ensure they are a safe and suitable addition to your dog's diet.
