Fur might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your dog's health, but it plays a surprisingly important role in their digestive system. In the wild, dogs and wolves would consume whole prey, fur and all, and this wasn't just incidental. The fur served a genuine purpose.
How Does Fur Help?
Fur acts as a natural dewormer. As it passes through the digestive tract, it wraps around worms and parasites, helping to carry them out of the body. It also stimulates the gut, encouraging movement and helping to empty the anal glands naturally. Think of it as nature's own internal brush.
Dogs that struggle with regularly needing their anal glands expressed, or those prone to worm burdens, may benefit from having fur included in their diet on a regular basis.
What Counts as Fur?
Any treat or chew that still has its coat on can provide this benefit. Good examples include:
- Rabbit ears with fur
- Rabbit skin
- Buffalo Ears
- Jumbo Buffalo rolls
The fur does not need to be consumed in large amounts to be effective. Even one or two furry treats a week can make a difference.
Is It Safe?
Yes, for the vast majority of dogs fur is completely safe to consume. It is not digestible in the same way that meat is, which is exactly what makes it so useful. It passes through the gut intact, doing its job along the way.
As with any new addition to your dog's diet, introduce it gradually, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Where to Find Furry Treats
If you would like to try adding fur to your dog's diet, we stock a range of natural treats that include fur-on options.
Browse our Natural Treats collection here.
For a gentle introduction to fur, we recommend starting with rabbit ears. They are one of the most popular and widely recommended furry treats, and most dogs take to them straight away. Please be aware that fur does not digest or break down in the same way food does — it passes through intact. If your dog eats it too quickly this can cause them to vomit, but this is nothing to worry about. We recommend introducing them to fur slowly and in small quantities if they tend to inhale their treats.
Next Blog: Paw Care in Summer: What Every Dog Owner Should Know
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