If you’ve got a new puppy at home, you already know how much they love to chew — on toys, socks, shoes, and sometimes, even your fingers! 🐾 It’s part of how they explore their world and soothe teething discomfort. But not all chews are safe for young pups.
As a certified veterinary technician, I often get asked:
👉 “Should I give my puppy a bully stick or rawhide?”
Let’s go over the differences and what’s safest for those sharp little puppy teeth.
🦴 What’s the Difference?
Bully Sticks are made from 100% beef muscle (usually the pizzle). They’re high in protein, fully digestible, and soften as your puppy chews.
Rawhide is made from the inner layer of animal hides (often cowhide). Even when made in the USA, rawhide tends to be tougher, less digestible, and can pose a choking or blockage risk if swallowed in chunks.
So while both satisfy your pup’s chewing instinct, they behave very differently in the body.
🐾 Why Bully Sticks Are Usually the Better Choice
Safer to Digest
Puppies’ digestive systems are still developing. Bully sticks break down naturally in the stomach, while rawhide often does not. If your puppy swallows a piece of rawhide, it can expand and cause a serious blockage.
Gentler on Puppy Teeth
Because bully sticks soften as your pup chews, they’re less likely to cause tooth fractures or gum irritation. Rawhide, on the other hand, stays firm and can be too hard for sensitive baby teeth.
Single Ingredient, No Fillers
A good-quality bully stick is made from one ingredient — beef. Many rawhides, even those made in the U.S., go through extra processing or are treated with flavorings.
Perfect for Short Chew Sessions
Puppies shouldn’t chew for hours on end — their jaws and teeth are still growing. A short session with a bully stick (10–15 minutes) is plenty, and you can refrigerate the stick to reuse later.
⚠️ When to Wait or Supervise
Even with bully sticks, supervision is essential. Always watch your puppy while they chew, and remove the stick when it gets small enough to swallow.
Also, wait until your puppy is at least 12 weeks old before introducing any hard chews. Younger pups may benefit from softer teething toys or frozen washcloths instead.
🐶 Bottom Line
For most puppies, bully sticks are the safer, gentler choice compared to rawhide. They’re digestible, natural, and satisfying — as long as you supervise and limit chewing time.
If your pup is still teething, you can alternate between bully sticks and softer teething toys to protect those baby teeth while keeping them happily occupied.
Your puppy’s chewing stage won’t last forever — but giving them the right chew can make it a lot easier (and less destructive)! 💙
***
Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
***
You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.
