Short answer: Choose a stick based on what you want to use it for. A small, soft stick such as the Canis Mini Sticks or the BRAVOER Vleesstickies is meant as a reward. A firmer chew such as the Canis Buffel Collageen Sticks or the Canis Yakkaas staafje keeps your dog busy for longer. Always pick a size your dog can't swallow whole, and supervise your dog while it chews.
What is the difference between a stick and a chew stick?
A stick is thin and quickly finished. You use it as a reward or break it into pieces for training. A chew stick is thicker or harder and takes some real chewing. That makes it more of an activity than a reward. In this collection, the types differ mainly in hardness and in how long your dog will be busy with them.
| Type | Hardness | Chewing time | Suitable for |
|---|
| Canis Mini Sticks | Soft to chewy | Short | Rewards, small dogs |
| BRAVOER Vleesstickies | Thin, easy to break | Short | Training in small portions |
| Canis Kebab Sticks | Soft | Short | Training, dogs that prefer soft treats |
| Canis Dental Sticks and Canis Functional Dentals met Olijf | Firm, chewy | Medium | A regular chewing moment |
| Canis Geperste Staaf 5 inch (13CM) and 10 inch (25CM) | Firmly pressed | Medium to long | Choosing the length to suit your dog's size |
| Canis Buffel Collageen Sticks 15CM 50 stuks | Firm | Medium to long | Dogs that love to chew, and chew often |
| Canis Kabeljauwsticks | Dried, firm | Short to medium | Variety, fish lovers |
| Canis Yakkaas staafje | Hard | Long | Adult dogs that gnaw calmly |
Which stick or chew stick suits my dog?
- For training: Mini sticks or meat sticks. They are easy to break into small pieces. You'll find more choice among the training treats.
- For a small dog: Choose the short Canis Geperste Staaf 5 inch (13CM) or a mini stick, not a large chew.
- For an enthusiastic chewer: Buffalo collagen sticks or a long pressed stick. Be careful with yak cheese. If you can't make a dent in it with your thumbnail, it is hard, and dogs that bite down hard can break a tooth.
- For a sensitive stomach or allergy: Choose a stick whose label lists a single animal species, such as the pressed beef stick, the Buffalo Collagen Sticks or the Cod Sticks, and introduce it gradually. Please note: according to the label, the Mini Sticks with horse, rabbit or ostrich have a base of beef meat meal. Also read when grain-free really helps with allergies.
Is a chew stick safe for your dog?
A chew stick is safe as long as you stick to a few basic rules. The risks vets mention are choking and broken teeth. That's why:
- Chewing always happens under supervision.
- Take away the last small piece as soon as it could be swallowed whole.
- Always have fresh water available.
- If large, soft pieces keep coming off a pressed stick, take them away.
Unsure about a particular type? Read which chews are safe for dogs.
Ingrid's tip: Hold the chew stick next to your dog's muzzle before you give it. If the stick isn't clearly longer than the width of your dog's mouth, choose a larger size. Ideally, give new chews at a time when you are at home and can keep an eye on things.
How many sticks can your dog have per day?
According to the WSAVA nutrition guidelines, all treats combined should provide around 10 per cent of daily energy. A large chew stick counts for more than a few mini sticks. If you give a lot of treats, for example during a week of training, give a little less of the main food. Nutritional values vary from batch to batch, so always go by the label.
Do dental sticks help against tartar?
Chewing can be a useful addition to dental care, but a dental stick is no substitute for brushing. The LICG considers brushing the foundation. So see a dental stick as a pleasant daily chewing moment, not as a treatment. If your dog already has tartar or inflamed gums, have your vet take a look.
Frequently asked questions
Can a puppy have sticks and chew sticks?
Soft sticks in small pieces are usually fine for a puppy. During teething, roughly from 3-4 to 6-7 months, avoid hard chews such as yak cheese. Read more in from what age a puppy can have chews.
How should you store sticks and chew sticks?
Keep them dry and sealed, for example in an airtight jar or in the resealable packaging. Wash your hands after handing them out, especially with fish and tripe.
Why do cod sticks smell so strong?
Dried fish naturally has a distinct smell. Many dogs actually find that appealing. Do store them separately and well sealed, though.
How do they differ from other chews?
Sticks and chew sticks are handy and easy to portion. Other chews, such as ears or tripe, differ in shape and hardness. You'll find an overview in the chews collection.
Sources
About the author
Ingrid Kooijman is the founder of Canis Snacks. She selects natural single-protein dog treats, sells them online and at markets in Brabant, and answers dog owners' questions about food and chews every day. Questions about these treats? Email info@canissnacks.com.
Not sure which treat suits your dog? Try the treat guide →
