Well my dogs liked them. I use to get them at the vet. One day I took the pups in for a weigh in, and noticed they were gone off the counter. When the vet told me there was suspecion of blockage, that was enough for me. Never looked back.
I thought the same thing- except for a different shape- they felt just as stiff, and not worth the risk to me for my dogs when there are other treats I can give.