How to Choose the Right Chew: Duck Neck, Duck Tongue, and Pig Ears

by chuishia chan on Aug 02, 2024

Finding the right chew for your dog involves considering their dietary needs, preferences, and chewing habits. Duck necks, duck tongues, and pig ears are all popular choices, each with their own unique benefits. In this blog, we’ll help you navigate these options to find the best chew for your canine companion.

Understanding the Options

Feature	Duck Neck Chews	Duck Tongue Chews	Pig Ear Chews
Key Difference	Dehydrated or freeze-dried whole duck necks; crunchy texture	Smaller, softer chews made from dehydrated or freeze-dried duck tongues	Whole dehydrated or baked pig ears; tough, chewy texture
Nutritional Benefits	High protein, low fat; natural glucosamine and chondroitin	High protein, low fat; rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins	High protein, higher fat content; good for dental health
Suitability	Medium to large dogs; those who enjoy substantial chews	Small to medium dogs; older dogs; those with dental issues	Most dogs, especially medium to large breeds who love to chew
Recommended Size	Medium to large dogs	Small to medium dogs	Medium to large dogs
Allergy Considerations	Hypoallergenic	Hypoallergenic	May not be suitable for dogs with pork allergies
Fat Content	Low	Low	Higher
Dental Health Benefits	Excellent; helps clean teeth and gums	Good; softer texture	Excellent; promotes vigorous chewing
Joint Health Support	Contains natural glucosamine and chondroitin	Not specifically noted for joint health	Not specifically noted for joint health
Best for	Dogs needing joint support; medium to large breeds	Small dogs; those with dental issues; dogs with allergies	Dogs who love long-lasting, flavorful chews (without fat restrictions)

Duck Neck Chews:

Description: Duck necks are dehydrated or freeze-dried whole necks from ducks. They are crunchy and provide a satisfying chew.
Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, low in fat, and contain natural glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.
Suitability: Great for medium to large dogs and those who enjoy a more substantial chew. They also help in cleaning teeth and gums due to their crunchy texture.

Duck Tongue Chews:

Description: Duck tongues are smaller, softer chews made from dehydrated or freeze-dried duck tongues. They are rich in flavor and relatively easy to chew.
Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
Suitability: Ideal for small to medium dogs, older dogs, or those with dental issues who need a softer chew. They are also hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for dogs with food sensitivities.

Pig Ear Chews:

Description: Pig ears are whole ears from pigs that are dehydrated or baked. They have a tough, chewy texture and a rich flavor.
Nutritional Benefits: High in protein, but can also be higher in fat compared to duck-based chews. They provide a long-lasting chew and are good for dental health.
Suitability: Suitable for most dogs, but especially enjoyed by medium to large breeds who love to chew. However, due to their higher fat content, they may not be the best choice for dogs with weight issues or those prone to pancreatitis.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Chew

1. Size and Chewing Habits:

Small Dogs: Duck tongues are a better option due to their size and softer texture. Pig ears can be too large and tough.
Medium to Large Dogs: Duck necks and pig ears provide a more substantial chew and can help with dental health through their crunchy texture.

2. Dietary Needs and Allergies:

Hypoallergenic Needs: Duck-based chews (both necks and tongues) are excellent for dogs with allergies to common proteins like beef or chicken.
Low-Fat Diets: Duck tongues and necks are generally lower in fat than pig ears, making them better for dogs on a low-fat diet or those prone to weight gain.

3. Health Considerations:

Joint Health: Duck necks contain natural glucosamine and chondroitin, which can support joint health, making them a good choice for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.
Dental Health: All three options can help with dental health by promoting chewing and reducing plaque, but duck necks and pig ears provide a more vigorous chewing experience.

4. Palatability:

Picky Eaters: Dogs tend to love the taste of both duck and pig ears. If your dog is a picky eater, you might need to try a few options to see which one they prefer.

Conclusion

Choosing the right chew for your dog depends on their individual needs and preferences. Duck necks, duck tongues, and pig ears each offer unique benefits, so consider your dog’s size, dietary needs, health, and chewing habits when making your selection.

For small dogs or those with dental issues: Duck tongues are a soft, nutritious, and hypoallergenic option.
For medium to large dogs or those needing joint support: Duck necks provide a substantial chew with added joint health benefits.
For dogs that love a hearty chew and have no fat restrictions: Pig ears are a flavorful, long-lasting treat.