Are Better Than Ears Good for Dogs? A Complete Guide to This Popular Treat

Are you wondering if Better Than Ears treats are good for your furry friend? As a dog owner myself, I’m always on the lookout for treats that are both tasty and healthy for my pup. Better Than Ears have gained popularity among dog owners as an alternative to traditional pig ears, but are they actually beneficial? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these treats!

What Are Better Than Ears?

Better Than Ears are premium dog treats manufactured by the J.M. Smucker Company. Unlike real pig ears, these treats are made with a variety of ingredients including wheat bran, maltodextrin, dried cheese powder, and corn oil. They typically come in a Hip & Joint Peanut Butter flavor, which contains glucosamine and chondroitin – ingredients known to support joint health in dogs.

These treats were designed as a healthier alternative to real pig ears, with the company claiming they contain 50% less fat than traditional pig ear treats. They come in a convenient pouch, typically containing 36 treats.

Benefits of Better Than Ears for Dogs

Better Than Ears offer several potential benefits for your canine companion:

1. Joint Support The glucosamine and chondroitin ingredients can help promote healthy hips and joints which is especially beneficial for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.

2. Lower Fat Content With 50% less fat than real pig ears they can be a better option for dogs on weight management programs or those prone to pancreatitis.

3. Digestibility: The treats are marketed as being highly digestible, which may make them easier on your dog’s stomach compared to some other chew options.

4. Dental Health Like many chew treats the act of chewing can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth.

5. No Mess: Unlike real pig ears which can be greasy and leave residue on floors and furniture, Better Than Ears are cleaner to handle.

Potential Concerns

While Better Than Ears have their benefits, there are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Ingredients: They contain wheat bran and other processed ingredients that may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or sensitivities.

2. Artificial Components: Some versions contain artificial colors and preservatives like potassium sorbate, which some dog owners prefer to avoid.

3. Calorie Content: Even though they’re lower in fat than pig ears, they still contain calories that should be factored into your dog’s daily intake.

4. Availability Issues: There have been reports of Better Than Ears becoming increasingly difficult to find, with many stores no longer carrying them.

What Happened to Better Than Ears?

If you’ve been searching for Better Than Ears recently, you might have noticed they’re harder to find than before. Many dog owners have reported difficulty locating these treats on store shelves and even online retailers.

According to some sources, Better Than Ears may have undergone rebranding or been discontinued. Some reports suggest that the company faced production issues or decided to focus on other product lines. There’s also speculation that the brand may have been rebranded as “Woof Delights,” though this hasn’t been officially confirmed.

The mysterious disappearance has left many pet owners searching for alternatives to their dogs’ favorite treats. As of now, there’s limited information about whether Better Than Ears will make a comeback or if they’re gone for good.

Veterinary Perspective on Better Than Ears

When it comes to treats like Better Than Ears, many vets take a moderate approach. While they aren’t necessarily bad as occasional treats, they also aren’t particularly nutritious. Most veterinarians recommend giving processed treats like these only occasionally rather than as a daily staple.

For comparison, vets often recommend healthier treat alternatives such as:

• Carrots
• Apple slices (without seeds)
• Green beans
• Oat-based cereals
• Small pieces of lean meat

These natural options provide nutrients without the additives found in processed treats.

Alternatives to Better Than Ears

If you’re having trouble finding Better Than Ears or looking for other options, here are some alternatives that serve similar purposes:

For Joint Health Support:

• Specific joint health treats containing glucosamine and chondroitin
• Dental chews with added joint supplements
• Cooked sweet potato slices (natural anti-inflammatory properties)

For Chewing Satisfaction:

• Bully sticks
• Beef tendons
• Cow ears (which contain natural chondroitin)
• Dental chews
• Lamb horns

For Low-Fat Options:

• Dehydrated sweet potato chews
• Carrots
• Commercial low-fat dental treats

How to Choose the Best Treats for Your Dog

When selecting treats for your furry friend, consider these factors:

1. Your Dog’s Age and Size: Puppies and smaller dogs need appropriately sized treats to prevent choking hazards.

2. Health Conditions: Dogs with joint issues might benefit from glucosamine supplements, while overweight dogs need lower-calorie options.

3. Ingredient Quality: Look for treats with recognizable, whole-food ingredients when possible.

4. Purpose: Are you using treats for training (small, soft treats work best) or for longer chewing sessions (harder, longer-lasting treats)?

5. Dental Benefits: Some treats are specifically designed to help clean teeth and freshen breath.

The Bottom Line: Are Better Than Ears Good for Dogs?

Better Than Ears can be a good occasional treat for most dogs, especially those who need joint support or a lower-fat alternative to pig ears. However, they shouldn’t replace high-quality dog food or fresh, natural treats in your dog’s diet.

If your dog has specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new treats. And if you’re having trouble finding Better Than Ears, the good news is that there are plenty of alternatives available that can provide similar benefits.

Remember that treats of any kind should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake to maintain a balanced diet and healthy weight.

FAQs About Better Than Ears for Dogs

Are Better Than Ears safer than real pig ears?

In some ways, yes. Real pig ears can sometimes carry bacterial contamination risks like Salmonella. Better Than Ears are manufactured products that don’t carry the same contamination risks. However, natural pig ears have fewer artificial ingredients.

How many Better Than Ears can I give my dog?

This depends on your dog’s size and dietary needs. For most medium to large dogs, one treat every few days is reasonable. Small dogs should get them less frequently or in smaller portions.

Can puppies have Better Than Ears?

It’s generally better to wait until puppies are at least 6 months old before giving them harder chew treats. Even then, always supervise your puppy with any chew treat.

Do Better Than Ears really help with joint problems?

While they contain glucosamine and chondroitin, the amounts may not be sufficient as a primary joint supplement. They’re better viewed as a supplementary source rather than a treatment for joint issues.

Why might my dog prefer Better Than Ears over other treats?

The peanut butter flavoring is very appealing to many dogs, and the texture provides a satisfying chew experience that many dogs enjoy.

In conclusion, while Better Than Ears can be good treats for dogs when given in moderation, their current availability issues might make it worth exploring other options. Whether you find them or choose an alternative, the most important thing is providing your furry friend with treats that are both enjoyable and contribute positively to their overall health and happiness!