Rabbit Ears for Dogs (+ Cow & Pig Ears)

I don’t know about you, but I remember by childhood dog being given dog treats in the shape of little bones, made of wheat and other rubbish.

These days we have a wider range of treats which are more natural for our dog to eat, and dried rabbit ears are often overlooked as a really good treat for dogs. In Australia you can also buy cow ears and pig ears as well, which are equally as beneficial.

Let’s take a look at dried ears as a treat for our furry buds. I’ll stick to writing about rabbit ears, as it would be painful to read if I interjected slash-cow-ears-slash-pig-ears throughout this article!

What are rabbit ear treats for dogs?

Rabbit ears, quite simply, are the ears of rabbits which have been dried and prepared as a dog treat.

They are usually sold in pet stores and some online retailers and come in various shapes and sizes. As treats they are entirely natural, and usually minimally processed other than being dried.

Rabbit ears should be considered a healthy treat for our dogs, so let’s take a look at the benefits…

Benefits of rabbit ears for dogs

• Natural treats – Rabbit ear treats should be 100% natural and free from artificial additives or preservatives. Check the brand you buy and where they’re sourced for due diligence, but they’re usually nothing more than dried ears.
• Low in Fat – These treats are generally low in fat, making them suitable for dogs that need to watch their weight or have dietary restrictions.
• Good, digestible protein source – Rabbit ears are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health in dogs.
• Dental health – Chewing on rabbit ear treats can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to better oral hygiene and fresher breath. Ward of bad breath and periodontal disease!
• Easy to digestion – Rabbit ears are very easy for your dog to digest. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, these are a perfect treat.
• Suitable for any dog – Unlike bones and harder chews like goat horns and deer antlers, rabbit ears almost never pose any risk.

Where to buy rabbit ears in Australia

There are a few brands of rabbit ear treats for dogs available in Australia. Your local pet shop may stock them, or you can try reputable online retailers:

How to feed rabbit ears to your dog

Start slowly.

If your dog is new to rabbit ear treats, begin with small portions to ensure they tolerate them well. Usually when a dog has been fed a brand of kibble for a long period of time they begin to develop sensitivities to real foods, with rabbit ears included.

Supervise.

Always supervise your dog while they enjoy their treat to prevent choking or any potential issues. This is only a minor caution with rabbit ears, as they pose very little risk whatsoever.

Store properly.

Keep rabbit ear treats in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture. Being dried means they should keep a long time, but as treats it is common to leave them in a cupboard longer than anticipated. I recommend any dog food or treats are properly stored, especially in more humid areas of Australia.

Final thoughts about rabbit ears for dogs

Rabbit ear treats are a healthy and satisfying option for dogs of all breeds and sizes. Their natural composition, low-fat content, and dental benefits make them a delightful addition to your dog’s treat collection.

Why not give your dog a taste of something new?

With rabbit ears, you’re not only treating them, you’re giving them a treat which is likely much healthier, and sometimes cheaper, than the inappropriate treats you can buy at most retailers.