Are Bully Sticks Safe for Dogs?
Pet parents often ask me: “Are Bully Sticks safe for dogs?” With over 10 years of experience working with dogs and their owners, I can tell you that bully sticks are one of the most popular chews for good reason — they’re natural, digestible, and loved by dogs. But like any treat, they come with both benefits and risks. This guide will break down everything you need to know about bully stick safety, including risks, benefits, and best practices to keep your pup safe and happy.
What Are Bully Sticks?
Definition & source (bull “pizzle” / penis)
Bully sticks are natural chews made from beef pizzle (penis muscle). While the source might sound unusual, dogs find them irresistible thanks to their rich flavor and chewy texture.
How they’re processed (dehydrated, baked, air-dried)
The pizzle is cleaned, then dehydrated, baked, or air-dried to remove moisture. This process preserves the chew, making it safe and digestible when properly handled.
Variations (lengths, thicknesses, braided, ring types)
Bully sticks come in many forms: 6-inch, 12-inch, braided, curly, and even ring-shaped. Thickness also varies, with thinner sticks for puppies and thicker ones for aggressive chewers. Explore options in our bully stick collection.
Potential Benefits & Why Many Owners Use Them
Digestibility compared to rawhides / other chews (they don’t splinter)
According to the American Kennel Club, bully sticks are fully digestible, unlike rawhides which can swell and cause blockages. They don’t splinter like bones, making them a safer choice overall.
Dental & oral health advantages (scraping plaque, chewing action)
The chewing motion helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup, improving oral health. Many owners notice cleaner teeth and fresher breath after consistent bully stick use.
Mental enrichment & boredom relief
Dogs have a natural instinct to chew. Bully sticks provide long-lasting entertainment and mental stimulation, helping prevent destructive behaviors caused by boredom.
Single-ingredient, natural treat (if high quality, no additives)
High-quality bully sticks are single-ingredient chews with no fillers or artificial additives. They’re a healthier alternative to many processed treats. Learn more in our guide on how to select safe bully sticks.
Risks & Safety Concerns
Choking hazard & obstruction
When the bully stick is chewed down to a small size
Bully sticks can become a choking hazard when reduced to a nub. Always remove the stick once it’s small enough to swallow whole.
Dogs swallowing large chunks prematurely
Some dogs try to gulp down large pieces. This can lead to gastrointestinal obstructions, which may require emergency care.
Bacterial contamination & microbial risk
Study showing contamination rates (Clostridium difficile, MRSA, E. coli)
Studies have found bacteria like E. coli and MRSA in some bully sticks. This risk is higher with poorly processed chews from low-quality sources.
Handling, storage & sourcing issues (low quality or poorly processed bully sticks)
Improper storage or sourcing can increase bacterial risks. Always buy from reputable sellers who follow strict hygiene practices.
Calorie density & weight gain concerns
Treats contributing unexpectedly to daily calories
Bully sticks are calorie-dense. A 6-inch stick may contain 80–100 calories, while a 12-inch stick can reach 200 calories. Overfeeding can quickly lead to weight gain if not balanced with daily meals.
Dental damage / fragility (especially in puppies or seniors)
Hardness causing cracked / fractured teeth
While softer than bones, bully sticks can still be too hard for puppies with developing teeth or seniors with fragile enamel.
Gastrointestinal upset
Diarrhea, vomiting in sensitive dogs or from overindulgence
Dogs with sensitive stomachs may experience diarrhea or vomiting if they eat too much at once. If you’re asking are bully sticks safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs, the answer is yes in moderation — but monitor for reactions.
Allergic reaction (beef protein allergy)
Dogs with beef allergies should avoid bully sticks, as they’re 100% beef protein.
Risks for puppies & developing dogs
Immature digestive systems, more prone to upset
Puppies have delicate digestive systems, making them more prone to stomach upset if given too much.
Risk to emerging teeth / enamel damage
Puppies’ teeth and gums are still developing, so shorter chew sessions are safer.
Need for shorter chew durations
If you’re asking are bully sticks safe for puppies, the answer is yes, but limit chew time to 5–10 minutes at a time.
How to Use Bully Sticks Safely (Best Practices)
Choose appropriate size, thickness, and shape
Select a stick based on your dog’s size and chewing power. Smaller dogs need thinner sticks, while large breeds do better with jumbo or braided versions.
Supervise chewing sessions (never leave dogs unattended)
Always watch your dog while chewing. This prevents choking and ensures they don’t swallow large chunks.
Remove stick when it becomes too small / dangerous
“When the nub becomes small, take it away” rule
Follow the simple rule: if it’s small enough to swallow, take it away. This prevents choking and blockages.
Limit chew time per session (avoid prolonged exposure)
Chew sessions should last 10–20 minutes, especially for puppies or dogs new to bully sticks.
Rotate different kinds of chews / breaks in between
Offer variety by rotating chews. This keeps your dog interested and prevents overindulgence.
Buy from reputable sources (quality control, purity, processing)
Not all bully sticks are equal. Choose reputable brands that follow strict quality standards. This ensures safety and digestibility.
Clean handling & storage (keep dry, sealed, avoid contamination)
Store bully sticks in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to prevent bacterial growth.
Tailoring Use Based on Dog Profiles
Puppies — how and when to introduce bully sticks
Introduce bully sticks gradually, with short supervised sessions. Choose thinner sticks for puppies and avoid prolonged chewing.
Adult healthy dogs — moderation & frequency
Healthy adults can enjoy bully sticks 1–2 times per week, or more often depending on size and activity level.
Senior dogs / dogs with dental issues — softer chews / alternative chew options
Seniors may need thinner or softer sticks to prevent dental damage. Alternatives like softer dental chews may be better for fragile teeth.
Dogs with food sensitivities / allergies
If your dog has a beef allergy, avoid bully sticks and look for alternative protein chews.
Signs That the Bully Stick Is Problematic
Coughing, gagging, pawing at mouth
These may indicate choking or a piece lodged in the throat. Remove the chew immediately and seek vet help if needed.
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort
These symptoms may mean your dog ate too much too quickly or has a sensitivity.
Drooling, reluctance to chew further
Excessive drooling or stopping mid-chew may indicate oral discomfort or dental pain.
Dental pain, broken teeth, refusing treats
If your dog avoids chewing after a session, a cracked tooth may be the cause. See your veterinarian for evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are bully sticks okay for puppies?
Yes, but limit sessions to 5–10 minutes and choose thin sticks. Always supervise.
How long is safe to let a dog chew?
10–20 minutes per session is ideal. Longer sessions may increase the risk of overeating or dental strain.
Can bully sticks cause blockages?
Yes, if dogs swallow large chunks. Always remove the stick once it’s small.
How many bully sticks per week is safe?
Most dogs do well with 1–2 per week. Large, active dogs may safely enjoy more if calories are balanced.
Are there safer alternatives?
Yes — softer dental chews, frozen carrots, or rubber toys can provide similar enrichment with less risk for some dogs.
Summary & Recommendations
So, are Bully Sticks safe for dogs? Yes — when used correctly. They’re digestible, natural, and beneficial for dental health and enrichment. But they do come with risks such as choking hazards, calorie density, and bacterial contamination if not sourced and handled properly. The safest approach is moderation, supervision, and buying from reputable suppliers. For help choosing the right option, check out our guide on selecting bully sticks.
Ready to try? Explore our full bully stick collection, or reach out via our Contact page if you need personalized recommendations for your pup.
Additional FAQs
Are bully sticks safe for all dogs?
They’re generally safe, but adjustments are needed for puppies, seniors, or dogs with allergies.
What risks are associated with giving bully sticks to dogs?
Choking hazards, bacterial contamination, weight gain, and dental damage if used improperly.
How do I choose a safe bully stick for my dog?
Look for high-quality, single-ingredient sticks from reputable sources with consistent sizing.
When should I remove the bully stick to avoid choking or blockages?
As soon as it becomes small enough to swallow whole.
Are bully sticks safe for puppies or senior dogs?
Yes, but choose thinner sticks for puppies and softer options for seniors with fragile teeth.