Short answer: The right bully stick depends on your dog's size and how eagerly they chew: the bigger and keener the dog, the longer and sturdier the stick. Bully sticks are tough but not rock hard, which makes them a suitable chew for most healthy adult dogs, as long as you supervise. Give one as an extra within the daily treat allowance and take away the last piece in good time.
What makes bully sticks different from other chews?
A bully stick contains a single protein source and is dried without additives. Unlike antler or horn, a bully stick has a little give: your dog gnaws it down layer by layer, and it softens the longer they chew. That makes it gentler on the teeth than the really hard chews made from antler and horn.
An honest caveat, though: bully sticks are rich in protein and nutritious, so they count towards your dog's daily energy intake. They also have a distinctive smell, which varies by batch and drying process. For exact nutritional values, always go by the label.
Which bully stick suits my dog?
Look at your dog's size first, then at how they chew. A calm chewer will make the same stick last much longer than a dog that mainly takes big bites.
| Product | Size | Chew time | Suitable for |
|---|
| Canis Bullepees 15CM | 15 cm, sturdy | Medium | Small and medium-sized dogs |
| Canis Bullepees 80CM | 80 cm, cut to size yourself | Long | Large dogs and keen chewers |
| Canis Kalfspees 15CM | 15 cm, slightly thinner | Shorter | Smaller dogs, variety |
| Canis Bullepeespuntjes | Small pieces | Short | Rewards, small dogs |
| Canis Paardenpenis | Sturdy piece | Long | Dogs that can't have beef |
If you're torn between two sizes, go for the larger one. A greedy dog may try to swallow a stick that's too short in one go. You can cut the long 80 cm stick into pieces to suit your dog using a sturdy pair of scissors. The tips are more of a reward than a proper chew; if you're looking for something for daily training, have a look at the training treats too.
Are bully sticks safe for dogs?
For most dogs, yes, as long as you stick to these points:
- Size: the stick should be big enough that your dog can't swallow it in one go.
- Supervision: stay nearby while your dog is chewing, especially the first few times.
- Last piece: take away the small end before it gets gulped down whole.
- Water: make sure fresh drinking water is always available.
Puppies love to chew, but while their teeth are changing (roughly from 3–4 to 6–7 months) their mouths are sensitive. At that stage, choose small, finer pieces such as veal pizzle or bully stick tips instead, and always supervise. You can read more by age in from what age can a puppy have chews.
Beef is one of the protein sources most often behind food allergies in dogs. If your dog can't have beef, Canis Paardenpenis or a treat from the horse collection is an alternative. Introduce one new protein source at a time and see your vet if any problems arise.
How much bully stick can you give?
There's no fixed amount per dog, as size, age and activity levels vary. As a guideline, all treats combined should provide no more than about 10 per cent of daily energy. If you give a large stick, give a little less of the main food that day. How to work that out is explained in how many treats can a dog have per day.
Start gradually, especially with a dog that's new to bully sticks. Give a short piece the first time and keep an eye on their stools over the following days. Your dog doesn't have to finish a stick in one session: take it away after a while and give it back later.
Ingrid's tip: Not sure what length your dog can safely hold? Cut an 80 cm stick into a few different lengths and see how they handle each one. The length at which they keep gnawing calmly rather than gulping is the right size for your dog.
How should you store bully sticks?
Store bully sticks in a dry, cool, sealed place, out of direct sunlight. A partly chewed stick becomes soft and a bit sticky; don't leave it lying around for days, but let it dry out or throw it away. If a stick smells musty or you spot mould, it goes in the bin. Wash your hands after handling.
Frequently asked questions
Why do bully sticks smell?
Bully sticks are a natural, dried product and the smell comes with it. How strong it is varies from batch to batch. You could let your dog chew on a mat or outdoors.
What do I do with the last piece?
Take it away as soon as it's small enough for your dog to swallow in one go. You could swap it for a small reward, so they'll give it up more easily.
Are bully sticks good for the teeth?
Chewing can be a useful addition to dental care, but it doesn't replace brushing. If in doubt, have your vet check your dog's teeth.
Can bully sticks give my dog loose stools?
They can, especially if your dog eats too much or too quickly. Give small pieces at first and build up gradually. If the problem persists, consult your vet.
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 →
