Are Bully Sticks Safe for Puppies?

One of the most common questions new pet parents ask me is, “Are Bully Sticks safe for puppies?” After over a decade of working with dogs and puppy owners, I can confidently say — yes, they can be safe, but only when used correctly. Bully sticks can help with teething, mental stimulation, and dental health, but puppies have special needs and vulnerabilities that make supervision and moderation absolutely essential. In this article, I’ll explain the benefits, risks, and best practices to help you use bully sticks safely with your growing pup.

What Makes Puppies Different from Adult Dogs

Sensitive digestive systems & higher risk of stomach upset

Puppies have immature digestive systems that can react strongly to rich, protein-heavy treats like bully sticks. Overindulging can lead to vomiting or diarrhea, especially when first introduced. Always start slow and monitor your puppy’s reaction.

Developing teeth / enamel & risk of dental damage

Because puppies’ teeth and enamel are still developing, overly hard chews can cause cracks or chips. Choosing a thinner, softer bully stick is important to protect their new teeth.

Size, chewing strength & swallow risk

Puppies are small and curious, and they don’t always know how to pace themselves. They might try to swallow large pieces of a bully stick, which can lead to choking or gastrointestinal obstruction.

Potential Benefits of Bully Sticks for Puppies

Chewing outlet during teething

Teething can be a stressful phase for puppies. Bully sticks provide a safe, satisfying outlet to relieve sore gums. The texture helps soothe discomfort and prevents your pup from chewing on furniture or shoes.

Mental enrichment & boredom relief

Puppies are full of energy and curiosity. A bully stick provides mental stimulation and keeps them busy, which helps reduce boredom-related behaviors like nipping or barking.

Mild dental benefit (scraping plaque)

The chewing motion helps clean plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to better oral hygiene even at a young age.

Single-ingredient, natural chew (if high quality)

High-quality bully sticks are made from a single ingredient — beef pizzle — and contain no artificial additives. They’re more digestible and natural compared to synthetic chews. For help selecting a safe option, see our guide to choosing bully sticks.

Main Risks & Safety Concerns for Puppies

Choking & gastrointestinal obstruction

When small pieces are swallowed whole

Puppies often try to swallow the last small piece of a chew. This can cause choking or intestinal blockage, requiring emergency care.

Getting stuck in throat or intestines

If a piece becomes lodged in the throat, it can obstruct breathing or digestion. Always remove the last 1–2 inches of the stick to prevent accidents.

Dental fractures / damage

Hardness causing cracked or broken teeth in developing jaws

Puppies’ developing teeth are fragile. Hard or oversized sticks can lead to dental fractures or damage to new enamel.

Digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea)

Puppies’ systems more reactive to rich chews

High-protein chews can upset a puppy’s stomach. Start with short sessions (5–10 minutes) and observe how your puppy tolerates it before offering longer chew times.

Calorie overload & weight gain

Bully sticks are calorie dense; even a 6″ stick may represent a significant portion of a small puppy’s daily calories

Even a small bully stick can contain 80–100 calories — a lot for a puppy that only needs 300–500 calories per day. Limit use to avoid unintentional weight gain.

Bacterial contamination & infection risk

Possible presence of pathogens (e.g. C. difficile, MRSA, E. coli) in bully sticks in some tests

Some studies have found bacterial contamination in low-quality bully sticks. Always wash your hands after handling and store them properly in airtight containers.

Allergic or sensitivity reaction (e.g. beef protein)

Puppies with food sensitivities may develop allergic reactions to beef. Symptoms include itching, vomiting, or diarrhea.

When (Age / Condition) It Might Be Safer to Introduce Bully Sticks

Minimum age guidelines (when pups can safely chew harder items)

Most veterinarians recommend introducing bully sticks at around 12 weeks of age. Before that, puppies’ teeth and digestive systems are too fragile.

Indicators a puppy is ready (can handle hard kibble, chew strength)

If your puppy can comfortably eat dry kibble and shows strong chewing behavior, they’re usually ready for bully sticks.

Vet consultation for puppies with health/dental concerns

If your puppy has dental or digestive issues, check with your veterinarian before offering chews. They can recommend safe alternatives or modified chew times.

How to Use Bully Sticks Safely in Puppies (Best Practices)

Choose the right size, thickness & shape (oversized vs small)

Pick a stick that’s larger than your puppy’s mouth but soft enough to chew. Avoid small pieces that can be swallowed whole. Our collection includes different sizes and shapes suitable for growing dogs.

Limit chew session duration (e.g. 5–10 minutes)

Short chew sessions are safer for puppies. Limit time to 5–10 minutes per day until your dog gets used to them.

Always supervise while chewing

Never leave your puppy unattended with a bully stick. Supervision allows you to intervene if they start choking or try to swallow a large piece.

Pull away when stick becomes small / choking hazard (e.g. last 1–2 in)

Once your puppy has chewed the stick down to the final 1–2 inches, take it away to prevent choking. You can replace it with a fresh one later.

Introduce gradually (start slow)

Start with short chewing periods and observe how your puppy reacts. Gradually increase time as they get used to the chew.

Rotate with safer chew options (softer or flexible chews)

Alternate between bully sticks and softer teething toys. This helps avoid dental strain and keeps your puppy interested.

Store & handle hygienically to reduce bacterial risk

Keep bully sticks in a sealed container and store in a cool, dry place. Wash your hands after each handling session.

Signs That a Bully Stick Is Causing a Problem

Coughing, gagging, choking

If your puppy coughs, gags, or paws at their mouth, remove the chew immediately and check for obstructions.

Vomiting, diarrhea, soft stool

Digestive upset after chewing is a sign to limit or pause bully stick use.

Refusal to eat regular food

If your puppy starts refusing meals after frequent chew sessions, cut back on treats and chews.

Behavior changes, discomfort, pawing at mouth

Signs like whining or excessive drooling can indicate dental discomfort or a lodged piece.

Dental pain, fractured tooth signs

Broken teeth or sensitivity when chewing are red flags — consult your vet immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At what age can puppies safely have bully sticks?

Puppies can start chewing bully sticks at around 12 weeks old, once they can handle harder textures.

How long should I let a puppy chew on one stick?

Keep chew sessions short — around 5–10 minutes. Gradually increase as your puppy matures.

How often can I give bully sticks to a puppy?

1–2 times per week is plenty for most puppies. Overuse can lead to digestive issues or excess calories.

Are there safer alternatives to bully sticks for puppies?

Yes! Softer chews, frozen carrots, or puppy teething toys can provide similar satisfaction without as much risk.

What should I do if my puppy swallows a chunk or shows distress?

If your puppy chokes, vomits, or acts distressed, remove any remaining chew and contact your veterinarian immediately.

Summary & Safety Recommendations

So, are Bully Sticks safe for puppies? Yes — when introduced at the right age and used with proper supervision. They can be a great tool for teething relief and enrichment, but only when handled safely. Always choose high-quality sticks, limit chew time, and monitor your pup closely. Puppies are still learning how to chew responsibly, and your guidance makes all the difference.

For trusted, high-quality options, browse our bully stick collection. If you have specific questions about your puppy’s chewing habits or health, reach out via our Contact page — we’re here to help you make safe, informed choices for your growing companion.

Additional FAQs

Are bully sticks safe for very young puppies?

Very young puppies under 8–10 weeks shouldn’t have bully sticks yet. Wait until their teeth and digestion mature around 12 weeks.

At what age can a puppy start chewing bully sticks?

Generally, around 3 months old when they can chew solid kibble without difficulty.

What size or thickness of bully stick is appropriate for a puppy?

Choose thin or standard sticks that match your puppy’s mouth size. Avoid large, heavy chews.

What risks do bully sticks pose for puppies?

Choking, digestive upset, dental damage, and bacterial exposure if mishandled or overused.

How should I supervise or limit bully stick use in puppies?

Supervise every session, remove small ends, and limit chew time to 5–10 minutes. Always monitor for any signs of discomfort.