How to Cook Pig Ears for Dogs the Right Way?

Looking for a natural, long-lasting snack for your furry friend? Many pet parents are turning to a certain chewy option that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. While store-bought varieties are easy to grab, making them yourself has advantages—you choose the ingredients, control the process, and keep costs down. Here’s how to whip them up perfectly at home.

Why Pig Ears Are a Popular Dog Treat

Pets go crazy for these chewy snacks because they’re packed with taste, last a while, and have an aroma that’s hard for them to resist. For pet parents, they’re a great way to keep teeth clean and prevent boredom.

But these snacks aren’t just for entertainment—they also provide nutrients like protein and good fats. Still, it’s important not to overdo it. Since they’re high in calories, too many can lead to extra pounds. They’re best given as an occasional reward, not an everyday meal.

What to Know Before You Cook

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to know a few things:

Source responsibly: Buy raw pig ears from a butcher you trust. Avoid anything that looks discolored or has an unusual odor.
Trim excess fat: Too much fat isn’t good for your dog, especially if they’re prone to weight gain or have a sensitive stomach.
Wash thoroughly: Start by washing the cuts thoroughly under cool running water, gently brushing to clean off any dirt or remaining particles. Some pet parents prefer to simmer them for a short time to make it easier to clear away excess material before preparing.
Size matters: If your furry friend is on the petite side, you may want to slice the chews into smaller pieces for easier handling.

Cooking Methods

Here are some classic methods to prepare this tasty treat for maximum flavor and the perfect texture, all while keeping it natural.

1. Oven-Baked Pig Ears

What You’ll Need:

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Baking tray
Parchment paper or wire rack

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 250°F.
Lay the ears flat on the tray or rack.
Bake for 5 to 6 hours, flipping halfway through.
Let cool completely before serving.

Oven-baking dries out the ears slowly, making them chewy but not overly hard. They’ll shrink and darken as they cook.

2. Air Fryer Pig Ears

What You’ll Need:

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Air fryer

Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
Cook ears for 10-15 minutes, flipping once.
Check for crispiness and let them cool.

Air frying is faster than baking and still produces a satisfying crunch. It’s ideal if you need a quick batch.

3. Dehydrated Pig Ears

What You’ll Need:

Dehydrator or oven set to low heat
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Instructions:

Cut ears into manageable pieces.
Place in dehydrator at 160°F for 12-24 hours.
Let them cool completely.

Drying out these snacks keeps them fresh for a long time. They’ll have a firm texture, perfect for keeping your pet busy.

4. Boiled and Baked

For a softer chew:

Simmer the chewy treats for 60 minutes to soften them up.
Then bake at 300°F for 1-2 hours until lightly crispy.

This method reduces fat and makes them easier on sensitive teeth.

Flavor Additions (Safe for Dogs)

If you want to get creative, try adding flavor with pet-safe herbs and ingredients.

Parsley: Freshens breath
Turmeric: Natural anti-inflammatory
Coconut oil: Adds flavor and healthy fat

Brush these lightly on before baking. Avoid salt, onions, garlic, or anything with spice.

Storage Tips

Storing your handmade treats correctly ensures they stay tasty and safe to enjoy.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Cold Storage: Keep prepared treats fresh by storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Defrost in the refrigerator before giving to your pet.

Make sure treats are fully cooled before storing to avoid moisture buildup.

How Often Should They Have One of These Chewy Treats?

Offer these treats in moderation—just a couple times weekly. Overdoing it may cause extra pounds, loose stool, or tummy troubles. For younger or tinier pets, watch serving sizes closely.

Safety Considerations

Always keep a close eye when your pet is chewing.
Remove any small or sharp pieces.
Avoid giving pig ears to pets with pancreatitis or weight concerns unless your veterinarian gives the okay.
Watch for signs of allergies: itching, vomiting, diarrhea.

If your pup tends to inhale treats too fast, try switching to chews that hold up better and don’t fall apart easily.

Alternatives Tasty Chew Swaps Your Pup Will Love

If your pup doesn’t handle those chewy treats well, check out these gentle, all-natural options.

Cow ears: Lower in fat, still chewy
Dehydrated sweet potato slices: Vegetarian option
Antlers or yak chews: Long-lasting
Carrot sticks: Crunchy and low-calorie

Final Thoughts

Making these chewy snacks at home isn’t just budget-friendly—it’s a way to offer your pup a natural, tasty, and worry-free reward. As long as you watch serving sizes, pay attention to how they handle it, and store leftovers correctly, these can be a fun occasional snack. Stick to basic prep, skip the additives, and adjust based on what works best for your furry friend.