We feed a raw beef rib weekly and for us the clean-up is minimal. I put down a towel and we've taught Max to eat it on that. It does help that we have hardwoods so traction is at a premium for him.
After he's done I just pick up the towel and throw it in the laundry. There really is no "mess" to speak of since the beef is high value and he doesn't leave anything. He usually chews on the bone during the week after he eats the meat off the bone. When it gets too short I pitch it. Rib bones are fairly soft I think and he seems to go through them just a little slower than he did rawhides. It also helps with the plaque on his teeth, just be sure to account for the extra calories in the diet.
FTR, I think the pet food stores are ripping people off. I just buy a slab of ribs at the grocery store, cut it apart and freeze individually. One slab lasts us about 3 months with 12-15 bones per slab for about $15. A lot of the bones pet stores sell are there because the butcher cut them and people don't use them. I'm not saying they're bad or Grade D or anything but if you can get a good relationship with your butcher your wallet will thank you.
