You can reduce the risk of spreading germs when giving a dog a pig ear, but handling steps cannot guarantee that a treat is free of Salmonella. Check that the product has not been recalled, supervise your dog, pick up the chew afterward, wash your hands, and clean anything it touched. The FDA and CDC issued this advice during a 2019 outbreak investigation; their guidance is useful for handling, but it does not certify any particular product sold today.
How to give a pig ear safely
- Check recall and lot information. Before offering a treat, check current recall notices and the product’s identifying information. Do not feed a recalled pig ear treat; the CDC included that instruction in its October 30, 2019 final outbreak update.
- Store it as directed. Follow the package’s storage instructions. Keep treats away from children and, when possible, away from areas where human food is prepared or stored.
- Keep children away while your dog chews. Give the treat in a place children cannot reach, and supervise the dog while it has the chew.
- Pick it up when your dog is done. Do not leave a used pig ear where a child or another person might touch it.
- Wash and clean up. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the treat. Clean surfaces and objects it contacted, and prevent your dog from licking people or household surfaces after contact. The FDA’s consumer guidance and the CDC’s outbreak update advise these precautions.
Why handling matters
In 2019, the FDA investigated human Salmonella infections connected to contact with pig ear dog treats. The CDC’s final update reported 154 ill people in 34 states, 35 hospitalizations, and no deaths. Those are historical outbreak totals—not current incidence, and not an estimate of the risk from any particular product.
Contaminated treats can expose both animals and the people who handle them. Dogs may carry and shed Salmonella without appearing sick, so a dog that seems well does not make contaminated treats or careless cleanup harmless. The CDC said the outbreak appeared to be over on October 30, 2019, and dropped its blanket warning except for recalled treats. That update does not establish that a particular product now on sale is uncontaminated or unrecalled.
What labels and processing claims can—and cannot—tell you
The FDA says manufacturers and suppliers must take appropriate steps to control pathogens and prevent cross-contamination. Properly performed irradiation can control Salmonella, but the agency does not require irradiation or recommend it over other pathogen-control methods. It also cautions that processing must be effective and that contamination can happen afterward.
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#1 Best Overall
- SINGLE INGREDIENT DOG TREAT: Made from natural pork with no unnecessary fillers or preservatives, these chews provide a simple treat option for pet owners looking for straightforward ingredients.
- CLASSIC PIG EAR CHEW EXPERIENCE: Slow-roasted pig ears deliver savory flavor and satisfying texture dogs love, creating a rewarding chew that helps reduce boredom and encourage engagement.
- SLOW ROASTED FOR RICH FLAVOR: Carefully slow-roasted to create a savory taste and aroma dogs love, helping keep them engaged and excited during chew time.
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY TEETH: Regular chewing action helps support everyday dental care by assisting with plaque removal while encouraging positive chewing habits.
- PREMIUM INGREDIENTS: Produced in the USA using carefully sourced ingredients, Grillerz dog chews are created for pet owners looking for dependable treats with quality ingredients.
In its pig ear treat Q&A, the FDA noted that an individually packaged treat labeled irradiated was among products from the earlier outbreak that tested positive. That history is why “irradiated,” “tested,” a stated country of origin, or individual packaging should not be treated as proof that a specific treat is risk-free. Traceability, packaging information, a disclosed pathogen-control process, and recall or lot status are useful questions to consider, not guarantees or FDA endorsements.
When to call your veterinarian
If your dog develops vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), fever, loss of appetite, or decreased activity, promptly consult a veterinarian, as the FDA advises. Contact your veterinarian as well if you need advice specific to your dog’s diet or chewing habits.
Rank #2
- Single-Ingredient Natural Chews: These all natural pig ears for dogs contain just one ingredient—100% pork—with no preservatives, artificial ingredients, hormones, fillers, or additives, giving you complete confidence in every treat you offer; this protein-packed, low-fat natural pig ears for dogs chew delivers wholesome nutrition that satisfies your dog's instinct to chew while solving your worry about hidden ingredients in commercial treats
- Supports Dental Health During Chewing: The natural texture of these pig ears for dogs provides a satisfying chew that helps reduce buildup as dogs gnaw. These pig ears for dogs large breeds enjoy encourage longer chew sessions, supporting jaw strength and overall oral hygiene—best used alongside regular dental care, not as a replacement.
- Safe for All Dogs: Perfect pig ears for puppies six months and older teething through seniors with strong jaws—whole ears suit pigs ears for large dogs over 20 pounds and aggressive chewers, while convenient slices work great as pigs ears for small dogs under 20 pounds; fully digestible natural protein breaks down safely in your dog's stomach unlike rawhide that can cause dangerous blockages, though always supervise during chewing
- Quality You Can Trust: These dog treats are produced in HACCP-regulated facilities with strict quality controls, featuring a grain-free, soy-free formula safe for sensitive dogs; slow-roasting these whole pig ears minimizes odor while preserving the flavor dogs crave—store in the resealable bag in a cool, dry place for lasting freshness; perfect for daily rewards at home, crate time, backyard play, after walks, or training sessions year-round
- Long-Lasting Satisfaction: Unlike rawhide that can splinter and cause digestive issues, these bulk pig ears for dogs are fully digestible and thicker than store-brand alternatives for extended chewing enjoyment; feed 1-2 dog treats pig ears daily for large dogs or half an ear for small breeds; slivers pairs perfectly with puzzle feeders, bully sticks, and your regular kibble routine for complete canine contentment
What the official guidance does not settle
The FDA and CDC materials cited here do not set a safe serving frequency, give a typical pig ear’s calorie count, specify a chew size based on a dog’s size, or establish pig-ear-specific choking or obstruction risk. Supervision is sensible, but it should not be represented as eliminating a mechanical risk. Ask your veterinarian for individualized guidance, particularly if your dog has health or chewing concerns.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- SINGLE INGREDIENT: Made with only 100% premium quality pork, slow roasted for flavor
- HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE: Great for sensitive tummies and an alternative to splinter-prone rawhide or bones
- SUPPORTS DENTAL HEALTH: Durable texture helps remove plaque and tartar as dogs chew
- MINIMALLY PROCESSED and hand inspected to ensure quality
- Sourced from pigs raised without added hormones or antibiotics; and no added grain, gluten, sugar or artificial preservatives, colors or flavors
Rank #4
- All Natural, Single Ingredient – Premium pig ears cleaned only with boiling water, never bleached or treated with harsh chemicals.
- Slow Cooked for Flavor & Safety – Gently oven-baked for days to lock in nutrients, natural crunch, and irresistible taste.
- Mess-Free, Thicker Chews – Fresh-smelling, non-greasy pig ears won’t stain hands, floors, or furniture.
- Safer Than Rawhide – Fully digestible and splinter-free; perfect chew for seniors, puppies, or aggressive chewers.
- Whole or Halves – Your Choice – Value-packed halves for smaller servings or full-size ears for longer-lasting chew time.
Rank #3
- All Natural, Single Ingredient – Premium pig ears cleaned only with boiling water, never bleached or treated with harsh chemicals.
- Slow Cooked for Flavor & Safety – Gently oven-baked for days to lock in nutrients, natural crunch, and irresistible taste.
- Mess-Free, Thicker Chews – Fresh-smelling, non-greasy pig ears won’t stain hands, floors, or furniture.
- Safer Than Rawhide – Fully digestible and splinter-free; perfect chew for seniors, puppies, or aggressive chewers.
- Whole or Halves – Your Choice – Value-packed halves for smaller servings or full-size ears for longer-lasting chew time.
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