{"id":3466,"date":"2022-12-11T10:49:09","date_gmt":"2022-12-11T10:49:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kipandtwiggys.com\/?p=3466"},"modified":"2023-02-14T21:23:52","modified_gmt":"2023-02-14T21:23:52","slug":"pigs-trotters-for-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kipandtwiggys.com\/pigs-trotters-for-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Pig’s Trotters for Dogs (by Rosalind the Vet)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
In many cultures worldwide, people use pig’s trotters to make traditional broths for human cuisine. More recently, though, natural treats have gained popularity for pet dogs. And so buying pigs trotters for dogs seem an obvious choice for owners to consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But don’t rush to buy some delicious trotters for your favourite canine just yet. It’s first essential to understand their pros and cons. In this article, we’ll discuss the health benefits and risks of pig’s trotters. Then you can decide if they are the best choice for you and your pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pig’s trotters are an appetising snack for your dog but they are high in calories. It’s best to feed them as an occasional treat, not as part of your dog’s regular diet.<\/p>
A great source of protein, fat, calcium and other nutrients. Trotters provide many health benefits for your dog.<\/p>
Chewing trotters is a great way to reduce plaque, keeping your dog’s teeth clean and healthy. Plus, they provide hours of mental stimulation, keeping their brain healthy too.<\/p>
Pig’s trotters carry many risks. Including scratches to the mouth and throat, diarrhoea-blocked intestines and pancreatitis. For this reason, pig trotters are probably best suited to large breed dogs.<\/p>
Do not feed pig’s trotters to growing or elderly dogs. And take special care when feeding them to small breed dogs.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Pig’s trotters or pig feet are a by-product of the pork industry. They include the entire pig foot and trotter from the ankle joint down. This means they are very sustainable, cheaper cuts of meat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pig’s trotters can be raw or air-dried. Air drying is a simple process where warm air passes around the trotters for several days. Eventually, most of the water content evaporates. This decreases the chance of harmful bacteria growing and extends the product’s shelf-life. It also maintains the trotters’ goodness and taste without additives or preservatives. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some shops sell smoked pig’s feet. Avoid these. Smoked foods can be carcinogenic (cancer-causing) if eaten often. They are also salty, which is not ideal for your four-legged pal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Food Standards Agency regulates the human food industry. It stipulates that food sold for people should be suitable for human consumption. Remember, other countries will have different laws controlling food standards and animal welfare. So finding out where the trotters you buy come from is always a good idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your local butcher is likely to offer fresh, locally-farmed meat products. Buying organic produce is great for your dog too. It reduces their exposure to chemicals and medicines that accumulate in the food chain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re not feeding raw, air-dried trotters are available in pet food stores. The Food Standards Agency also governs the production of commercial pet foods and treats. This is under a different set of legislation to human nutrition. Be sure to check your pet food labels for hidden additives. There’s no need for extra ingredients or flavours in this simple, nutritional foodstuff. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Air-dried trotters can feel oily and have a distinctive smell. Some owners report that the smell is unpleasant, and the oils can stain soft furnishings. So think carefully about giving your dog a trotter on your best cream rug just before guests visit!<\/p>\n\n\n\n