- Bully sticks are safe and fully digestible for most dogs when given under supervision.
- They offer multiple benefits like cleaner teeth, stronger muscles from high protein, and mental enrichment.
- Always choose the right size, monitor chewing sessions, and buy from trusted brands like Kwik Pets to ensure safety and quality.
Are bully sticks safe for dogs? It’s a question every pet parent has asked at least once while watching their furry friend happily gnaw on one.
Bully sticks have become quite popular in recent days — one of the most talked-about chews in the pet world. These sticks seem to check all the right boxes:
- They keep dogs busy.
- They clean their teeth.
- They satisfy that deep need to chew.
But as responsible pet owners, it’s only natural to wonder what’s really behind this chewy favorite and whether it’s truly as safe.
In this blog, we’ll dig into the truth about bully sticks — what they’re made of, their benefits, potential risks, and how to choose the right one for your pup.
What Are Bully Sticks?
Before diving into safety, let’s start with the basics. Bully sticks are natural chews for dogs made from beef pizzle. It might sound odd, but dogs absolutely love them — and for good reason.
These chews are:
- 100% natural
- Safe dog chews for aggressive chewers
- High in protein
- Fully digestible
- And come in different shapes and sizes
So, the next time you see your dog gnawing happily on a bully stick, you can smile knowing it’s not some mystery chew.
Are Bully Sticks Safe for Dogs?
Now for the big question: Are bully sticks safe for dogs?
The short answer is yes — but only when given responsibly.
Bully sticks are one of the safest, most digestible chews out there, especially compared to rawhide. While rawhide can swell up in the stomach and cause blockages, bully sticks are made of pure beef muscle.
Are Bully Sticks Digestible for Dogs?
Absolutely! Bully sticks are fully digestible. This signifies that your dog’s gut can break them down without trouble. That’s a big win over rawhide or synthetic chews that can cause serious digestive issues.
Comparing Bully Sticks to Other Chews
|
Chew Type |
Digestibility |
Safety |
Best For |
|
Bully Sticks |
Fully digestible |
High (with supervision) |
All dogs |
|
Rawhide |
Poor |
Moderate to risky |
Occasional use only |
|
Plastic/Nylon Bones |
Non-digestible |
Safe if chewed gently |
Aggressive chewers |
|
Antlers |
Hard to digest |
Can crack teeth |
Gentle chewers only |
When it comes to safety, bully sticks rank near the top — as long as you monitor your dog’s chewing sessions.
Are Bully Sticks Good for Puppies?
Yes — but with caution. Puppies can enjoy bully sticks as soon as they can chew solid food. Choose thin, shorter sticks for small mouths, and they will become the best puppy treats. Make sure you do not leave your little pet enjoying the sticks alone. Puppies are curious (and clumsy!) chewers. You need to keep this point in mind.
Healthiest Chew Sticks for Dogs: Great Alternatives
Bully sticks are awesome, no doubt. However, your dog needs some variety for both their teeth and their mind. Mix things up with these natural dog chew alternatives—they’re harmless, fun, and just what your pup needs.
1. Dog Dental Chews
Vet-recommended dog dental chews scrub your dog’s teeth while being gentle on their gums. They work amazingly for seniors or pups with sensitive mouths.
2. Antlers
Naturally shed deer or elk antlers last a long time and are rich in minerals. However, they can be too hard for some dogs. It’s your duty to keep an eye on their chewing carefully.
3. Raw Bones
Raw beef bones are the classic, healthiest chew sticks for dogs. Furballs love to gnaw on them. Just make sure you supervise, and never give cooked bones.
4. Rubber Chew Toys
Nothing beats a good rubber toy like a KONG for serious chewers. These are nearly indestructible. Plus, you can stuff them with peanut butter to keep things interesting.
Recommended Bully Stick Products You’ll Love
If you’re looking to try bully sticks or upgrade to a better brand, here are a few safe and high-quality options worth exploring:
1. Barkworthies Odor Free Bully Stick Dog Chews
Overview: Barkworthies Bully Stick Dog Chews are a hit among dogs. They’re tasty, last a long time, and don’t upset sensitive stomachs. Made from just one ingredient, so you know exactly what your pup is getting.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Highly Digestible |
Easy on your dog’s gut |
|
No Artificial Preservatives |
Pure, natural goodness |
|
Single Ingredient |
Made from only one natural source |
|
Supports Dental Health |
Best dog dental chews that help clean teeth |
|
Natural Rawhide Alternative |
A safer, wholesome choice |
Barkworthies 6" Odor Free Bully Stick Dog Chews
Why it’s a must-have: This chew keeps your dog entertained while promoting dental health — all without any artificial ingredients. It’s a wholesome treat that both dogs and pet parents can feel good about!
2. Loving Pets Pure Buffalo Bully Sticks Dog Treat
Overview: Loving Pets Pure Buffalo Bully Sticks Dog Treats are the tastiest and healthiest chew sticks for dogs. Made from high-quality, free-range buffalo meat, they offer hours of chewing fun while caring for your dog’s teeth.
|
Features |
Details |
|
High-Quality Ingredients |
Made from premium free-range, grass-fed buffalo meat. |
|
Supports Dental Health |
Chewing helps lessen tartar buildup. |
|
Lean Meat |
A healthy, low-fat alternative to beef sticks. |
|
Long-Lasting Entertainment |
Keeps your dog busy and happy for hours. |
|
Delicious Flavor |
Treats for dogs with a rich buffalo taste that dogs love. |
Loving Pets Pure Buffalo Bully Sticks Dog Treat 6-in 6 Count
Why it’s a must-have: These buffalo bully sticks make treat time both fun and healthy. They’re flavorful, long-lasting, and naturally good for your dog’s teeth and overall wellness.
3. Redbarn Bully Sticks Dog Treat
Overview: Redbarn Bully Sticks Dog Treats are flavorful, long-lasting chews made from a single ingredient — real beef pizzle. Slow-roasted for rich taste, they keep your pup busy while naturally supporting dental health.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Single Ingredient |
Made from 100% natural beef pizzle. |
|
Slow-Roasted Flavor |
Cooked in their own juices |
|
Supports Dental Health |
Chewing helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup. |
|
Long-Lasting Chew |
Keeps dogs happily occupied for extended periods. |
|
Natural Gum Massage |
Promotes healthier gums |
Redbarn Bully Slims Dog Treats 4.7-oz
Why it’s a must-have: These Redbarn Bully Sticks offer pure, savory satisfaction while caring for your dog’s teeth. It’s a wholesome treats for dogs your pup will love chewing on every day!
4. Barkworthies Odor-Free Cane Bully Sticks Dog Treat
Overview: Barkworthies Full Cane Bully Sticks are long-lasting, premium chews that bring both fun and health benefits to your dog. At about three feet long, they can be enjoyed whole by large dogs or cut into smaller pieces for little pups.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Premium Quality |
Made with top-grade ingredients. |
|
Easily Digestible |
Gentle on your dog’s stomach. |
|
Customizable Size |
Can be given whole or cut for smaller dogs. |
|
Dental Health Support |
Chewing action helps lessen teeth issues. |
|
Long-Lasting Fun |
Provides extended chewing time. |
Barkworthies Odor-Free Cane Bully Sticks Dog Treat
Why it’s a must-have: These bully sticks combine quality, flexibility, and health benefits in one tasty dog treat. They’re perfect for keeping your dog happy, occupied, and smiling with cleaner teeth!
5. Barkworthies Odor Free Double Cut Bully Stick Dog Chews
Overview: Barkworthies Odor Free Double Cut Bully Stick Dog Chews are a tough, satisfying treats for dogs with a unique texture that keeps dogs busy and helps maintain clean teeth. Perfect for pups who love a hearty chewing challenge!
|
Features |
Details |
|
Premium Double Cut |
Thicker and tougher. |
|
Unique Texture |
Promotes healthy chewing habits. |
|
Odor Free |
Clean enjoyment without any strong smell. |
|
Supports Dental Health |
Helps remove plaque and tartar |
|
Hard Chew Option |
Ideal for dogs that prefer a stronger chew. |
Barkworthies 6" Odor Free Double Cut Bully Stick Dog Chews
Why it’s a must-have: These double-cut bully sticks offer both durability and dental care in one tasty chew. It’s a flavorful, odor-free way to keep your dog happy and their teeth healthy!
6. Cadet Bully Hide Sticks All-Natural Dog Chews
Overview: Cadet Bully Hide Sticks All Naturals Dog Chews bring the best of both worlds — the rich flavor of real bully sticks and the durability of premium beef hide. They’re long-lasting, natural, and perfect for heavy chewers.
|
Features |
Details |
|
All-Natural Treat |
Made with 100% real bully stick and beef hide. |
|
Big Bully Taste |
Packed with irresistible flavor. |
|
Long-Lasting Chew |
Perfect for keeping heavy chewers entertained. |
|
Highly Digestible |
Easier to digest. |
|
Premium Quality Layers |
Bully stick outside with select top-layer beef hide inside. |
Cadet Bully Hide Sticks All Naturals Dog Chews Large 7 Count 9.6-oz
Why it’s a must-have: These Cadet Bully Hide Sticks offer great taste, lasting fun, and easy digestion — all in one natural chew your dog will go wild for!
7. Barkworthies Odor Free American Bully Stick Dog Chews
Overview: Barkworthies Odor Free American Bully Stick Dog Chews are all-natural, long-lasting healthiest chew sticks for dogs. They’re completely odor-free, making chew time pleasant for both you and your pup.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Odor Free |
Enjoy chew time without any strong smell. |
|
All Natural |
Best dog treats made from pure, natural ingredients. |
|
Long-Lasting Chew |
Keeps dogs happily occupied for longer periods. |
|
American Made |
Crafted with quality. |
Barkworthies 12" Odor Free American Bully Stick Dog Chews
Why it’s a must-have: These bully sticks are clean, natural, and satisfying — giving your dog a safe way to chew while you enjoy a completely odor-free experience!
8. Cadet Bully Sticks Premium Dog Treats
Overview: Cadet Bully Sticks Premium Dog Treats are a simple, wholesome way to reward your dog. Made from a single ingredient and packed with protein, these long-lasting chews keep your pup happy and busy.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Premium Quality |
High-quality chewing experience. |
|
Single Ingredient |
Made from 100% natural beef for pure goodness. |
|
High in Protein |
Supports your dog’s strength. |
|
Long-Lasting Chew |
Keeps dogs satisfied for hours. |
Cadet Beef Sticks Premium Dog Treats 12-oz
Why it’s a must-have: These premium bully sticks offer pure, protein-rich chewing fun that lasts. A natural, long-lasting treat your dog will truly love!
9. Barkworthies Protein Rich Beef Bully Stick Bites Dog Chews
Overview: Barkworthies Protein Rich Beef Bully Stick Bites Dog Chews are small, tasty, and packed with natural goodness. These protein-rich bites are perfect for rewarding your dog with something healthy and satisfying.
|
Features |
Details |
|
Highly Digestible |
Gentle on your dog’s gut. |
|
Single Ingredient |
Made from 100% natural beef with nothing added. |
|
Protein Rich |
Helps support strong muscles and daily energy. |
|
No Artificial Preservatives |
Pure and natural for guilt-free treating. |
|
Natural Rawhide Alternative |
A safer, wholesome option. |
Barkworthies Protein Rich Beef Bully Stick Bites Dog Chews 10-oz
Why it’s a must-have: These bite-sized bully sticks deliver big flavor and high nutrition in every chew. A clean, protein-packed treat your dog can enjoy anytime!
Conclusion
So, are bully sticks safe for dogs?
Absolutely—when you use them right. The best part about this particular product is:
- Bully sticks are one of the healthiest, most natural chews out there.
- They pack in plenty of protein and give your dog something challenging to work on.
But here’s the thing: Keep an eye on your dog while they are having a blast with their favorite sticks. It’s time to give your little furball the best.
