Rawhide vs. Bully Sticks: What are the Differences?

When it comes to long-lasting chews for dogs, two names often dominate the conversation — rawhide and bully sticks. Pet parents often ask, “Which is better?” or “Are they really that different?” After 10 years of working with dog owners and studying canine nutrition, I can confidently say that while both can satisfy a dog’s chewing instincts, the differences in safety, digestibility, and nutrition are significant. In this article, we’ll break down Rawhide vs. Bully Sticks: What are the Differences? — so you can make the safest, smartest choice for your pup.

Definitions & Origins

What is rawhide?

Inner layer of animal hide (typically cattle)

Rawhide is made from the inner layer of cow or horse hides — essentially, the skin left after the outer layer (used for leather) is removed. It’s dried and formed into shapes like sticks, bones, or rolls that dogs love to chew.

Processing steps (soaking, cleaning, cutting, drying)

After harvesting, the hides are soaked in chemicals to remove hair and fat, then cleaned, cut, and dried. Some brands bleach or flavor them, which can affect both safety and digestibility.

What are bully sticks?

Made from beef pizzle (muscle tissue)

Bully sticks are made from 100% beef pizzle — the muscle from a bull’s penis. While it sounds unusual, it’s actually a highly digestible, single-ingredient chew full of protein.

Cleaned, cooked, dehydrated / baked / air-dried

Unlike rawhide, bully sticks are simply cleaned, stretched, and slowly dehydrated or baked. This makes them natural and free from most harsh processing chemicals.

Digestibility & How They Break Down

Bully sticks: high digestibility, break down in stomach

One of the biggest differences between rawhide vs bully sticks is digestibility. Bully sticks are almost fully digestible. They break down naturally in your dog’s stomach, making them much safer for most pets.

Rawhide: slower to digest, may remain intact, risk of swelling or blockages

Rawhide, on the other hand, is not easily digested. When swallowed, large pieces can swell inside your dog’s stomach or intestines, causing blockages that sometimes require surgery.

Influence of size, chew strength, dog’s digestive health

Dogs with strong jaws may chew off big chunks, increasing the risk with rawhide. For dogs with sensitive stomachs or slower digestion, bully sticks are the better choice.

Safety & Risk Profile

Choking & obstruction hazard

Rawhide: risk of large pieces breaking off and lodging somewhere in the digestive tract

Rawhide’s layered texture can peel off in chunks, making it more likely to cause choking or digestive obstruction. This is a primary safety concern among veterinarians.

Bully sticks: rare but possible especially when chewed down to small bits

Bully sticks are safer but not risk-free. Once your dog chews them down to a small nub, remove it to avoid swallowing hazards.

Splintering / sharp edges

Rawhide may crack or shred unpredictably

Rawhide chews can fray and create sharp edges that may injure gums or damage the digestive tract when swallowed.

Bully sticks less prone to splintering

Bully sticks are dense and fibrous, which makes them less likely to splinter — another reason many pet owners prefer them.

Chemical processing & additives

Rawhide may be treated with chemicals, bleaches, preservatives

Many commercial rawhides are treated with chemicals to clean, whiten, or flavor the product. These additives can cause stomach irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive dogs.

Bully sticks often more “natural” / fewer additives (though quality matters)

Bully sticks are typically single-ingredient and free from additives. However, quality still varies — always choose reputable sources to ensure cleanliness and safety.

Bacterial contamination & hygiene risks

Both chew types can harbor bacteria if not processed or stored correctly. Look for brands that test for pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella and store chews in airtight containers.

Dental damage concerns

Excess hardness on either chew can risk cracked teeth

Overly aggressive chewers can crack teeth on very hard rawhide or thick bully sticks. Choose the right thickness and supervise to prevent damage.

Nutritional Value & Calorie Considerations

Bully sticks: source of protein, some fat

Bully sticks are high in protein and contain natural fats, making them a more nutritious treat. They can support muscle health and provide lasting energy for active dogs.

Rawhide: limited nutritional value (mostly chew substrate)

Rawhide offers little to no nutritional benefit. It’s primarily a chew toy, not a dietary supplement.

Caloric impact & disposal of chew residue

Bully sticks are calorie-dense, so portion control matters — especially for smaller dogs. Rawhide, while low in calories, shouldn’t be consumed in large chunks due to safety risks.

Use Cases & Suitability by Dog Type

Puppies & young dogs

Puppies can enjoy thin, soft bully sticks but should avoid rawhide due to choking and digestion risks. Always supervise closely and limit chew time to 5–10 minutes.

Adult / healthy dogs

Healthy adult dogs with strong jaws may enjoy both, but bully sticks are a safer and more nutritious choice overall.

Senior dogs or those with dental / digestive issues

Seniors benefit from softer, more digestible chews like bully sticks. Rawhide is often too tough and can cause gastrointestinal strain.

Heavy chewers vs light/moderate chewers

For power chewers, thick bully sticks or braided styles work best. Light chewers may enjoy smaller, thinner options. Rawhide can be too tough or risky for unsupervised heavy chewers.

Practical Considerations (Cost, Availability, Variety)

Price differences

Rawhide is generally cheaper, but bully sticks offer more safety and digestibility, making them worth the slightly higher price.

Shapes, sizes, textures across both chew types

Bully sticks come in various lengths and thicknesses, as well as braided or curly forms. Rawhide, while abundant, often lacks variety in ingredient quality.

Storage, shelf life, odor issues

Bully sticks have a natural odor, which dogs love but owners may not. Rawhide tends to have less smell but can grow bacteria if improperly stored. Keep both types in airtight containers to maintain freshness.

How to Choose Between Rawhide & Bully Sticks

Dog profile: size, chewing style, digestive sensitivity

Consider your dog’s chewing habits and sensitivity. For dogs with strong jaws or sensitive stomachs, bully sticks are generally the safer choice.

Quality and sourcing: trusted brands, minimal additives

Choose reputable suppliers with transparent sourcing. Avoid rawhide that’s chemically treated or imported from unregulated markets.

Supervision, chew pullover, safe chew duration

Always supervise chew sessions. Remove any small pieces that could cause choking and limit chew time to 10–20 minutes for safety.

Rotating chews / combining both types carefully

Some owners alternate between softer chews and bully sticks for variety, but avoid offering rawhide and bully sticks together in the same session to prevent overconsumption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is rawhide safe at all?

Rawhide can be safe if used sparingly and under supervision, but the risk of blockage and chemical exposure makes it less ideal than bully sticks.

Are bully sticks always safer than rawhide?

Generally, yes. Bully sticks are digestible and made from natural protein, while rawhide is more likely to cause gastrointestinal issues.

Can rawhide be digestible if processed a certain way?

Some manufacturers claim their rawhide is “highly digestible,” but even these versions break down slower than bully sticks.

How to dispose of chew scraps safely?

Throw away small, soggy pieces that could be swallowed. Never flush them — dispose of them in sealed trash bags.

What to do if the dog swallows a piece

If your dog swallows a large piece and shows signs of choking, gagging, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Summary & Smart Recommendations

So, Rawhide vs. Bully Sticks: What are the Differences? While both satisfy your dog’s need to chew, bully sticks stand out for their digestibility, nutritional value, and safety. Rawhide can pose risks of blockage, splintering, and chemical exposure, making it a less ideal option for many dogs. That said, moderation, supervision, and quality sourcing are key with any chew.

For most dogs, high-quality bully sticks are the better long-term choice. They’re natural, protein-packed, and safer for digestion — provided you supervise your pet and choose reputable brands.

Want to keep your pup happy, engaged, and safe? Check out our helpful article on 21 boredom busters for dogs or learn more about healthy chew habits in our healthy snacking guide. If you’re unsure which chew is right for your dog, contact us — we’re happy to help you choose safely.

Additional FAQs

What are the key material differences between rawhide and bully sticks?

Rawhide is made from animal hide, while bully sticks come from muscle tissue (beef pizzle). This makes bully sticks more digestible and natural.

Which is safer—rawhide or bully sticks?

Bully sticks are generally safer because they’re fully digestible and chemical-free. Rawhide can cause choking or intestinal blockages.

How do digestibility and breakdown differ between rawhide and bully sticks?

Bully sticks break down easily in the stomach, while rawhide can stay intact and swell, posing a blockage risk.

What health risks are associated with rawhide vs bully sticks?

Rawhide risks include choking, chemical exposure, and obstruction. Bully sticks carry minor risks if small pieces are swallowed but are safer overall.

How should I choose between rawhide and bully sticks for my dog?

Choose bully sticks for a natural, digestible option. Avoid rawhide for dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of swallowing chunks.