Bully Sticks for Puppies: What to Know Before Letting the Little Chewer Bite In
Puppies explore the world with their mouths — and if you’ve ever had your favorite shoes shredded, you know just how important it is to give them something safe to chew on. Bully sticks are a favorite among pet parents, but are they safe for puppies? The short answer: yes, if you choose correctly. Here’s everything you need to know about introducing bully sticks safely to your puppy’s routine.
Why Puppies Need to Chew
Chewing is a natural and essential part of puppy development. It helps:
-
Soothe teething discomfort by massaging sore gums.
-
Relieve boredom and anxiety, reducing destructive behavior.
-
Promote jaw strength and clean teeth naturally.
However, not all chews are puppy-friendly. Some are too hard and can crack developing teeth, while others contain artificial flavors or fillers that can upset a sensitive digestive system.
That’s where natural, single-ingredient bully sticks come in.
Are Bully Sticks Safe for Puppies?
Yes — when given properly, bully sticks are one of the safest, most digestible natural chews for puppies. Unlike rawhide, which can swell and cause blockages, bully sticks are fully digestible and made from 100% pure beef pizzle.
They’re softer than bones or antlers, but still tough enough to keep teething pups busy. Plus, they’re packed with protein — a nutrient growing dogs need for strong muscles and energy.
The key is choosing the right size and supervision routine.
Choosing the Right Bully Stick Size for Your Puppy
|
Puppy Weight
|
Recommended Bonez Bully Stick Size
|
Chew Time
|
|---|---|---|
|
Under 15 lbs
|
6-inch thin or standard stick
|
Short sessions (5–10 min)
|
|
15–30 lbs
|
6–8 inch standard or braided
|
Moderate sessions (10–15 min)
|
|
30–50 lbs
|
9-inch standard
|
Supervised chew (15–20 min)
|
Start small and work your way up. For puppies under 12 weeks, use shorter chew sessions to monitor digestion and tolerance.
Safety Guidelines for Puppy Bully Sticks
-
Always supervise chew time. Puppies can get excited and try to swallow large pieces — take it away when it’s down to the last inch.
-
Limit chewing sessions. 5–15 minutes is plenty for new chewers.
-
Introduce slowly. Start with one stick per week to avoid stomach upset.
-
Store properly. Keep unused sticks in a sealed bag in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
-
Hydration is key. Encourage water breaks during and after chewing.
By following these steps, you’ll prevent choking hazards, ensure safe digestion, and build positive chewing habits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Giving a stick that’s too large or thick — can strain puppy teeth.
-
Letting your pup chew unsupervised — risk of swallowing chunks.
-
Buying cheap imports — many are chemically treated or overly hard.
-
Offering too many chews too soon — can cause loose stools.
Your puppy’s digestive system is still developing, so moderation and quality matter more than quantity.
Why Bonez Bully Sticks Are Perfect for Puppies
Bonez Bully Sticks are made from 100% U.S.-sourced beef, slow-baked to lock in flavor and nutrition. No chemicals. No preservatives. Just pure, single-ingredient goodness.
For puppies, choose the 6-inch thin or standard Bonez sticks, they’re the perfect size to build chewing confidence while staying safe. Every chew helps your pup develop stronger jaws, cleaner teeth, and calmer behavior.
Final Thought: Start Them Right
Your puppy’s chewing habits will last a lifetime. Start them off with the right product — one that’s safe, nutritious, and made with care.
Choosing Bonez Bully Sticks means choosing American quality, natural ingredients, and peace of mind for every chew.