Horse tendons
Horse tendons are a popular chew for dogs that offers many benefits. But what is horse tendon and what should you look out for when feeding it to your dog? In this article, you'll find out everything you need to know about horse tendons for dogs.
What are horse tendons?
Horse tendons are the tendons of horses that are a by-product of slaughtering. They are gently dried and processed into chews. Horse tendons are very hard and tough and offer your dog long-lasting chewing fun. They are also very low in calories and contain a lot of protein.
What are the benefits of horse tendons for dogs?
Horse tendons for dogs have many benefits, both for your dog's health and behavior. Here are some of them:
- Horse tendons naturally clean your dog's teeth by rubbing away plaque and tartar. This prevents dental problems such as tooth decay or periodontitis.
- Horse tendons strengthen your dog's chewing muscles and promote blood flow to the gums. This is important for healthy oral hygiene and a strong set of teeth.
- Horse tendons are very well tolerated by dogs that suffer from allergies or intolerances. They contain only one source of protein (horse) and no additives such as sugar, colorants or preservatives.
- Horse tendons satisfy your dog's natural need to chew and gnaw, which he has inherited from his ancestors. This ensures species-appropriate activity and prevents boredom or frustration.
- Horse tendons are a tasty reward for your dog, which he loves to earn. You can use them as training motivation or as a snack between meals.
What are the disadvantages of horse tendons for dogs?
Horse tendons for dogs also have some disadvantages that you should be aware of. Here are some of them:
- Horse tendons can be very large and heavy, depending on which part of the horse they come from. This can lead to an increased risk of choking or suffocation, especially in small or hasty dogs.
- Horse tendons can have very sharp edges that can injure your dog's mouth or gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to bleeding or inflammation, which in the worst case can be life-threatening.
- Horse tendons can be very odorous, which some people may find unpleasant. This can lead to an undesirable odor in the house or car if you store or transport them there.
- Horse tendons can be very expensive, depending on where you buy them and how high the quality is. This can lead to a high financial outlay if you feed them regularly.
How do you feed horse tendons correctly?
If you decide to feed your dog horse tendons, you should follow some tips to avoid potential problems. Here are some of them:
- Choose the right size and strength of horse tendons to suit your dog. Make sure they are not too big or too small and that they are not too hard or too soft.
- Always supervise your dog when chewing the horse tendons.
Horse tendons are dried tendons from horses that are processed into chews for dogs. They are hard, tough, low in calories and rich in protein. The benefits of horse tendons for dogs include natural dental care, strengthening of the chewing muscles, tolerance of allergies, satisfaction of the chewing instinct and tasty reward options. However, horse tendons can also have disadvantages, including the risk of choking, sharp edges, odor intensity and high cost. When feeding horse tendons, the size and thickness should be appropriate for the dog and they should be supervised while chewing to prevent potential problems.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊