How many times have you pampered your pooch by offering a rawhide treat? Chances are, you weren’t aware of the risks involved.

Rawhide is animal skin — usually from a cow — that’s been chemically dried and then flavored. Although chewing rawhide is generally safe for a dog’s teeth, there are other potential dangers that should give you pause. Chief among them is the risk of gastrointestinal obstruction after a dog swallows a chunk of rawhide. That’s because rawhide isn’t easily digested. Dogs can also choke on rawhide pieces, and less commonly, they may be allergic to the flavor additives.

So, in place of rawhide treats, consider safer alternatives — like Yak Chews made of dried cheese, or dehydrated fish skins that are chock full of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.