ByAre pig ears good for dogs to chew on? Yes, pig ears can be good for dogs when given occasionally and with proper supervision, but they’re not perfect for every pup.
Let me tell you something I learned the hard way.
Back in 2015, I gave my German Shepherd, Duke, a pig ear. He absolutely LOVED it. Chomped on that thing for 45 minutes straight. I thought I’d discovered the holy grail of dog chews.
Then came the diarrhea at 2 AM.
Not fun.
But here’s the thing: I made rookie mistakes. And after working with thousands of dogs over the past decade, I now know exactly when pig ears work brilliantly and when they spell trouble.
Key Takeaways
- Pig ears can be good for dogs when given occasionally and with supervision
- They offer dental benefits and mental stimulation
- High fat content means they’re not suitable for all dogs
- Never leave your dog unsupervised with pig ears
- Remove small pieces to prevent choking
- Watch for allergic reactions or digestive upset
- Quality matters (buy from reputable sources)
- Limit to 1-3 times per week depending on dog size
What Exactly Are Pig Ears Anyway?
Pig ears are exactly what they sound like. The actual ears of pigs, cleaned, dried, and packaged as dog chews.
They’re high in protein and fat. Some are smoked, some are baked, and others are dehydrated naturally.
I’ve tested dozens of varieties with my clients’ dogs. The quality varies WILDLY between brands.
The Good Stuff About Pig Ears
Here’s why so many dog owners (including me, now that I know better) use pig ears:
1. Natural Dental Benefits
When your dog chews on a pig ear, the gnawing action scrapes away plaque and tartar. It’s like a toothbrush they actually enjoy using.
I’ve seen significant improvements in dogs’ breath after regular chewing sessions. One of my clients, Sarah, swore her Labrador’s teeth looked whiter after just three weeks. (You can check out more about what your dog can chew on everyday without ruining teeth for additional options.)
2. Mental Stimulation
A bored dog is a destructive dog.
Pig ears keep dogs occupied for 20-60 minutes depending on the dog’s size and chewing style. That’s quality mental exercise right there.
Need more ways to keep your dog’s brain sharp? I highly recommend this brain training program that’s transformed countless anxious, bored dogs into calm companions.
3. High in Protein
Pig ears contain about 69% protein. That’s muscle-building fuel for your furry friend.
4. Satisfies Natural Chewing Instinct
Dogs NEED to chew. It’s hardwired into their DNA. Pig ears give them an outlet that’s better than your couch cushions.
But Wait… Are Pig Ears Safe for Dogs?
Here’s where things get interesting.
Are pig ears safe for dogs? They can be, but several factors determine safety: your dog’s size, digestive sensitivity, the pig ear’s quality, and how you supervise the chewing.
The Risks You MUST Know About Pig Ears
Risk #1: Choking Hazard
When pig ears get small and soggy, they become slippery choking hazards. I’ve had to do the Heimlich maneuver on a Beagle once. Never again.
Pro Tip: Take the pig ear away when it’s down to a 2-inch piece. Yes, your dog will give you sad eyes. Do it anyway.
Risk #2: Digestive Upset
Remember Duke’s 2 AM disaster? Pig ears are HIGH in fat (about 20-30% fat content).
Too much fat = upset stomach, diarrhea, or worse, pancreatitis.
Dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of pancreatitis should avoid pig ears completely. Instead, offer them safer treat alternatives designed for sensitive systems.
Risk #3: Contamination Concerns
In 2019, the FDA warned about Salmonella contamination in some pig ear products. This bacteria can make both dogs AND humans sick.
Always buy from reputable sources. Wash your hands after handling. Store them properly.
Risk #4: Calorie Overload
One pig ear contains roughly 130-150 calories. For a small dog, that’s like you eating two Big Macs in one sitting.
I recommend adjusting your dog’s regular meals on pig ear days. Combine this with a balanced variety meal plan to keep nutrition on track.
Can Pig Ears Cause Blockage in Dogs?
Yes, they can.
If your dog swallows large chunks without chewing properly (I’m looking at you, Labrador owners), those pieces can cause intestinal blockage.
Signs of blockage include:
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
This is a veterinary EMERGENCY. If you suspect blockage, get to the vet immediately.
Want to track your dog’s health symptoms and eating patterns? This dog health tracker has saved my clients thousands in vet bills by catching problems early.
How Often Can I Give My Dog Pig Ears?
Here’s my rule of thumb from 10+ years of experience:
Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Half a pig ear, once per week maximum
Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): One pig ear, 1-2 times per week
Large dogs (50+ lbs): One pig ear, 2-3 times per week
These aren’t daily treats. Think of them as weekend specials.
And ALWAYS supervise. I can’t stress this enough. I once left a client’s Husky alone with a pig ear for “just 5 minutes” while I grabbed something from my car. Came back to find her choking. Lesson learned.
If you’re looking for everyday chew options, check out how many bones a dog should have in a day for safer daily alternatives.
Are Pig Ears Better for Dogs Than Rawhide?
In my professional opinion? YES.
Here’s why:
| Pig Ears | Rawhide |
|---|---|
| Digestible (when chewed properly) | Extremely difficult to digest |
| Single ingredient | Often treated with chemicals |
| Less choking risk | High choking and blockage risk |
| Natural product | Heavily processed |
I stopped recommending rawhide years ago after seeing too many emergency vet visits. Pig ears aren’t perfect, but they’re significantly safer.
For more safe chewing options, read about whether Nylabones are safe for dogs.
Do Vets Recommend Pig Ears for Dogs?
The answer is… it depends on the vet.
Some vets give them a thumbs up for healthy adult dogs with strong digestive systems. Others avoid recommending them due to contamination risks and high fat content.
I’ve worked with 15+ veterinarians over my career. Most agree: pig ears in MODERATION for HEALTHY dogs = generally okay.
But puppies under 6 months? Dogs with pancreatitis? Senior dogs with weak teeth? Hard pass.
What Are the Signs of Pig Ear Allergies in Dogs?
Pork allergies are rare but real.
Watch for these symptoms after giving pig ears:
- Excessive itching or scratching
- Red, inflamed skin
- Ear infections
- Gastrointestinal issues (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Paw licking or face rubbing
My client’s Golden Retriever, Molly, developed hives within hours of her first pig ear. Turns out she had a pork sensitivity we didn’t know about.
If you notice ANY of these signs, stop the pig ears immediately and consult your vet.
Supporting your dog’s overall health with quality supplements can boost their immune system and reduce allergic reactions.
Can Pig Ears Cause Dental Problems?
This surprised me too.
While pig ears help CLEAN teeth, they can potentially crack teeth in aggressive chewers. I’ve seen it happen with power chewers who attack pig ears like they’re trying to destroy evidence.
If your dog is a gentle gnawer, you’re fine. If they’re a destroyer? Consider softer alternatives or supervise closely.
Looking for the perfect balance? Check out the best chew bone for dogs that won’t risk dental damage.
My Personal Pig Ear Protocol
After years of trial and error, here’s exactly how I use pig ears:
- Choose quality brands only (USA-sourced when possible)
- Inspect before giving (no weird smells, mold, or discoloration)
- Give on an empty stomach (reduces digestive upset)
- Supervise 100% of the time
- Remove when it gets too small
- Provide fresh water (helps digestion)
- Watch for 24 hours (monitor poop and behavior)
I also keep a dog camera set up so I can monitor chewing sessions even when I step away briefly. Peace of mind is priceless.
Better Alternatives to Consider
Pig ears aren’t your only option. I rotate between:
- Bully sticks (lower fat)
- Dehydrated sweet potato chews
- Frozen Kong toys stuffed with healthy treats
- Dental chews specifically designed for oral health
Variety keeps dogs interested and reduces risk. Plus, you can discover your dog’s favorites through my recommended selection of treats here.
Don’t forget hydration! A quality water fountain encourages dogs to drink more, which aids digestion after any chew session.
Photo Suggestion: Happy dog with owner supervising chew time
Final Thoughts: The Bottom Line on Pig Ears
Are pig ears good for dogs to chew on? For most healthy adult dogs, yes, but with caveats.
They’re treats, not dietary staples. Special occasions, not daily habits.
I still give my current dog, Luna, a pig ear every Sunday evening. She knows it’s coming and does her happy dance. But I buy premium quality, I watch her like a hawk, and I take it away when it’s getting small.
Your dog deserves safe, enjoyable chews. Pig ears CAN be part of that rotation when done right.
Want to ensure your dog gets complete, balanced nutrition beyond treats? Check out this variety meal plan that takes the guesswork out of feeding.
And if you have an emotional support dog who deserves the best care, make sure you have a legitimate ESA letter for housing and travel benefits.
Got questions about pig ears or dog chews in general? Drop them below. I read every comment and reply based on my decade-plus experience.
Stay smart. Stay safe. And give your pup an extra belly rub from me.
