Bully Sticks For Dogs: Guide To Benefits, Risks, & Safe Chewing

Supports tooth health and curbs boredom with a long-lasting, all-natural treat.

By Srija Burman

Created on Aug 29, 2025

Supports tooth health and curbs boredom with a long-lasting, all-natural treat.

Bully Sticks for Dogs: Benefits, Risks, and Safe Chewing Practices

Bully sticks are one of the most popular chew treats for dogs, favored by canines and their owners for both their taste and dental health benefits. But as with many treats, there are important safety considerations and nutritional facts every responsible pet owner should know before making them a staple in their dogâs routine. This comprehensive guide discusses what bully sticks are, their nutritional value, health benefits, potential risks, how to choose the right one, safe usage guidelines, and answers to frequently asked questions.

What Are Bully Sticks?

Bully sticks are single-ingredient dog chews made from the pizzle (penis) of cattle. These treats are slow-dried or baked to create a dense, chewy, and protein-rich snack suitable for most dog breeds. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, bully sticks have become a go-to option for owners seeking a long-lasting chew for their pets.

Natural sourcing: Usually made from 100% beef, with no artificial additives or preservatives.
Variety: Available as straight sticks, twists, braids, and even rings to suit different chewing preferences.

Nutritional Profile of Bully Sticks

Understanding the nutritional value of your dogâs chews is important for balanced feeding. Bully sticks are especially prized for their:

High Protein Content: These chews are high in protein and provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle development, tissue repair, and immune system function.
Low Fat (relatively): While not fat-free, bully sticks tend to be much lower in fat compared to some other popular chews like pig ears.
Calorie Count: Depending on size and brand, a typical 6-inch bully stick contains approximately 90-130 calories.
Single Ingredient: Made entirely from beef, which reduces the risk of allergic reaction from additives.

Health Benefits of Bully Sticks

Many veterinarians and pet experts recognize several benefits of bully sticks for dogs when used appropriately:

Dental Health: The mechanical action of chewing helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease and supporting healthy teeth .
Jaw Strength: Chewing bully sticks strengthens jaw muscles and massages the gums, which improves blood circulation and oral health .
Stress Relief: Chewing is a natural outlet for dogs, providing mental stimulation and helping to relieve anxiety and boredom .
Long-Lasting Enjoyment: Even aggressive chewers are typically occupied for 30 to 40 minutes with a bully stick, making them effective for reducing destructive behavior .

Potential Risks and Safety Concerns

Despite their benefits, bully sticks carry several potential hazards that responsible owners should monitor.

Choking Hazard

Swallowing Large Pieces: Dogs may attempt to swallow the remaining nub of a bully stick, risking choking or intestinal blockage .
Risk Rises as Stick Gets Smaller: Always supervise and remove chews that become small enough to fit entirely in your dog’s mouth .

Digestive Issues

Gastrointestinal Upset: The high protein and fat content can cause diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach upset, especially in dogs unaccustomed to rich treats .
Proper Introduction: Gradually introduce bully sticks; start with short chewing sessions (5â10 minutes) and monitor your dogâs response .

Bacterial Contamination

Microbial Risk: Bully sticks can be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which pose health risks to pets and humans .
Source Matters: Always purchase bully sticks from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent food safety standards .

Dental Concerns

Cracked Teeth: While beneficial for most dogs, particularly hard bully sticks can cause broken teeth, especially in small breeds or dogs with weaker teeth .

How to Choose the Right Bully Stick for Your Dog

Selecting the appropriate bully stick is essential for maximizing safety and satisfaction.

Size: The stick should always be larger than your dogâs mouth and muzzle to prevent swallowing or choking .
Density and Thickness: Choose thicker bully sticks for aggressive chewers and thinner or softer options for puppies or small breeds .
Shape: Some dogs prefer braided, twisted, or ring shapes for variety and increased chewing challenge.
Origin: Opt for products made from free-range, grass-fed cattle when possible for improved safety and quality.
Nutritional Information: Read the packaging to check calorie count and nutritional content.

Safe Bully Stick Usage: Best Practices

Proper use and supervision are vital to ensuring that treat time is both fun and safe for your dog.

Supervise Every Chew Session: Never leave your dog unattended with a bully stick.
Time Limits: Limit chewing to 5â10 minutes for first-timers; adjust up to 15â20 minutes for experienced chewers.
Monitor for Small Pieces: Discard the stick once it becomes small enough to pose a swallowing hazard .
Clean Hands and Surfaces: Wash your hands after handling bully sticks and clean any surfaces the stick contacts, as a precaution against bacterial contamination .
No More Than 1 Per Day: Daily use is generally not recommended; 2â3 sticks per week is advised for most dogs to avoid excess calories and digestive upset .

Introducing Bully Sticks Safely

If your dog is new to bully sticks, gradual introduction is crucial:

Start with a short chewing session of 5â10 minutes.
Observe your dog for any digestive upset or allergic response.
Gradually increase chewing time over subsequent days if there are no adverse symptoms .

Alternatives to Bully Sticks

If bully sticks are not suitable for your dog, consider the following alternatives:

Fish Skin Chews: Lower in calories and suitable for sensitive stomachs.
Frozen Carrots: A cheap, low-calorie, and readily available option for teething puppies or dogs prone to weight gain .
Dental Chews: Specially formulated for oral health and typically less calorically dense.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bully Sticks

Can dogs eat bully sticks every day?

It is not recommended to offer bully sticks daily. Limiting treat consumption to 2â3 times per week helps minimize risks of excessive calorie intake and gastrointestinal upset .

How many bully sticks can a dog have per week?

Two to three sticks weekly is a general guideline to balance enjoyment and health.

Are bully sticks digestible?

Yes. Bully sticks are fully digestible compared to rawhide, which poses higher blockage risks; however, dogs may still have difficulty digesting large pieces, so supervision is essential.

How do I know if my dog is choking on a bully stick?

Signs include gagging, excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, or distress. If you notice these, try to safely remove the stick and seek veterinary care if needed .

How should I store bully sticks?

Store unused bully sticks in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to prevent bacterial growth.

Do bully sticks have an odor?

Some bully sticks have a notable natural odor due to their single-ingredient origin; low-odor options are available but may contain additional processing.

What should I do if my dog gets diarrhea after eating a bully stick?

Withhold further chews and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist or if there is blood in the stool. Future introduction should be more gradual .

Are there truly odor-free bully sticks?

While many brands market low-odor bully sticks, truly odor-free products are rare and usually involve extra processing.

How do I choose the right bully stick size for my dog?

Choose a bully stick larger than your dog’s mouth; consider your dogâs size, weight, age, and chewing habits when selecting thickness and length .

Quick Comparison Table: Bully Sticks vs. Other Chews

Chew Type	Digestibility	Dental Benefit	Risk Factors	Average Chew Time
Bully Sticks	Fully Digestible	High	Choking, Bacteria, Dental damage	30â40 min
Rawhide	Poor (can cause blockage)	Moderate	Blockage, Chemicals	Varies
Fish Skin	Digestible	Moderate	Odor, Allergies	15â20 min
Dental Chews	Digestible	High	Artificial ingredients	10â20 min
Frozen Carrots	Digestible	Low	Choking if large pieces	5â15 min

Expert Tips for Responsible Treat Giving

Introduce new chews gradually and monitor your dogâs reaction.
Supervise all chewing to prevent choking or accidental ingestion of large pieces.
Consult your veterinarian about appropriate treat use if your dog has health concerns or dietary restrictions.
Use treats as a supplement, not a replacement, for a balanced diet.
Stay mindful of total caloric intakeâtreats, including bully sticks, should not exceed 10% of daily calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are bully sticks safe for puppies?

Bully sticks are generally safe for puppies over three months of age, provided you choose an appropriate size and supervise chewing.

Do bully sticks help with teething pain?

Yes. The chewing action can relieve discomfort in teething puppies, but always monitor to prevent swallowing large or broken pieces.

Can bully sticks cause allergies?

Because theyâre made from beef, bully sticks may trigger allergies in dogs sensitive to beef. Watch for signs like itching, hives, or stomach upset.

How do I dispose of unfinished bully sticks?

Unfinished sticks should be wrapped and discarded to prevent bacteria or insects. Do not store chewed portions for later use.

Do bully sticks interact with medications?

There are no known direct interactions, but if your dog is on a restricted diet or special medication, ask your veterinarian first.

Final Thoughts

Bully sticks can offer substantial enrichment, dental support, and enjoyment for dogs of all breeds. By following expert guidelinesâchoosing the right size and source, practicing safe usage, and maintaining moderationâpet parents can help ensure chews are a positive addition to their dogâs lifestyle. Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, and always supervise your dog during treat time to maximize safety and health.

References

Author

Srija Burman

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman