{"id":3550,"date":"2023-02-14T20:01:59","date_gmt":"2023-02-14T20:01:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/kipandtwiggys.com\/?p=3550"},"modified":"2023-04-21T16:43:29","modified_gmt":"2023-04-21T16:43:29","slug":"pig-snouts-for-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/kipandtwiggys.com\/pig-snouts-for-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"A Guide to Pig Snouts for Dogs (by Rosalind the Vet)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Pig snouts for dogs are a high-protein, lesser-known treat. And while they look a little odd to us, they are super tasty for our dogs. Snouts are often marketed as a lower-fat alternative to other treats, so they may be attractive for dogs on a calorie-restricted diet. But, the fat content varies hugely between products \u2013 so watch out! And, as with all new foods, think carefully about whether this treat suits your dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, we look at the benefits and risks of feeding pig snouts to your dog, how to feed them safely, and what to look out for when purchasing these treats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pig snouts should be avoided if your dog has a pork allergy.<\/p>
Snouts can be a very low-fat treat for dogs that struggle to digest fats.<\/p>
Take care with large breed dogs \u2013 they might swallow the snout whole, which can cause choking and blockages.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
It’s no surprise that pig snout treats are simply the snout or nose of a pig. Produced as a by-product of the pig meat industry \u2013 and a delicacy in some cultures \u2013 they are a sustainable food source that would otherwise be wasted in the UK.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pig snouts are available in many pet shops and processed in various ways \u2013 air-dried, freeze-dried, smoked, roasted and puffed. Or, you might even source fresh pig snouts from your local butcher or farm shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some dried snouts are bleached and flavoured, so reading the packaging is essential, as not all snouts are as natural as you might expect. Puffed snouts are heat-treated (generally without additives) and are a little softer, so they can be an excellent option for some dogs with sensitive mouths. They are also reported to be lower in odour, and they feel less oily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check that the pig snout you select is free from artificial flavours, additives and preservatives. Smoked pig snouts should be avoided. Not only is there a risk of cancer linked to consuming smoked foods. But also, they are often seasoned with salts and sugars, which are unnecessary in your dog’s diet. Some owners report that smoked treats can cause digestive upsets too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In recent years there has been controversy around commercial pig snouts being contaminated with bacteria such as salmonella. However, pet foods and treats produced in the UK must be tested for bacterial contaminants under the Food Standards Agency’s regulations<\/a>. In addition, animal by-products that are sold as raw pet food should be derived from products suitable for human consumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n