What is the best bully stick for a large dog?

For large dogs 50–90 lbs, start with the 12 inch Standard bully stick. If they finish it in under 30 minutes, upgrade to the 12 inch Monster Jurassic (XL thickness) or the 12 inch Braided. Dogs over 90 lbs should go straight to the 12 inch Monster Jurassic or 12 inch Braided. Always size up when in doubt — a larger stick is safer than one that can be swallowed whole.

How many calories are in a bully stick?

A standard 6-inch bully stick contains approximately 80–95 calories. Researchers at Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine established approximately 88 calories as the average for a standard 6-inch stick. A 12-inch standard contains roughly 150–180 calories. Monster or XL thickness sticks run higher — approximately 110–135 calories for a 6-inch Monster and 200–260 calories for a 12-inch Monster. Always account for bully stick calories within the 10% daily treat rule.

What size bully stick should I get for my dog?

Match by weight: Under 20 lbs use a 4–5 inch Thin. 20–50 lbs use a 6 inch Standard. 50–90 lbs use a 12 inch Standard or 6 inch Monster. Over 90 lbs or aggressive chewers should use a 12 inch Monster Jurassic or 12 inch Braided. When in doubt, size up. A stick that is too large cannot be swallowed whole. A stick that is too small can become a choking hazard as it gets short.

Are bully sticks safe for puppies?

Yes, with the right size and supervision. Puppies with adult teeth, typically at 5–6 months, can safely have a 4–5 inch bully stick in 10–15 minute supervised sessions. Puppies under 5 months with baby teeth still erupting should not have bully sticks. Always supervise, always remove when the stick reaches 2 inches, and introduce slowly over the first week to let the digestive system adjust.

How long do bully sticks last?

For a moderate chewer: a 6 inch Standard lasts 25–50 minutes; a 12 inch Standard 45–90 minutes; a 12 inch Monster Jurassic 60–120 minutes; a 12 inch Braided 90–150 or more minutes. Aggressive chewers will finish any stick 30–50% faster. If your dog consistently finishes in under 15 minutes, size up to the next thickness tier or switch from straight to braided construction.

What age can puppies have bully sticks?

Puppies can have bully sticks once their adult teeth have erupted, typically at 5 to 6 months of age. Do not give bully sticks to puppies under 5 months or those still primarily on baby teeth — the hardness level can damage deciduous teeth. When in doubt, check with your vet to confirm adult teeth are established before starting.

What size bully stick is best for a puppy?

Start with a 4 to 5 inch Thin or 4 to 5 inch Braided Odor-Free for most puppies. The shorter length reduces leverage and makes it harder for puppies to bite off large chunks. Large breed puppies such as Labs, Goldens, and Shepherds at 6 or more months can move up to the 6 inch Standard. Never start a puppy on a 12-inch stick — the extra length creates too much leverage for a young chewer.

How long should a puppy chew a bully stick?

Start with 5-minute sessions in the first week, then extend to 10 to 15 minutes once the puppy has established confident chewing technique and shown no digestive upset. Maximum 20 minutes per session for puppies under 7 months. Always supervise the entire session and remove the stick when it reaches 2 to 3 inches regardless of how long the session has been.

Are bully sticks safe for teething puppies?

Bully sticks are safe for puppies with adult teeth coming in at 5 to 6 months, but not for very young teething puppies aged 2 to 4 months who are still on baby teeth. For early teething relief in puppies under 5 months, softer rubber chew toys or frozen options are more appropriate. Bully sticks become the right choice once adult teeth are established.

How often can puppies have bully sticks?

2 to 3 times per week is the standard recommendation for puppies. Daily use is fine once the puppy has adjusted to the treat after the first 2 to 3 weeks, but always account for the calories within the 10 percent daily treat rule. A 55 to 65 calorie stick represents a significant portion of a small puppy's daily intake — adjust meal portions on days bully sticks are given.

How much longer do braided bully sticks last than straight ones?

Braided bully sticks typically last 2 to 3 times longer than a straight stick of the same length for the same dog. The three-strand braided construction resists jaw compression better than a single strand, slowing consumption significantly. A dog that finishes a straight 6-inch stick in 15 minutes will often take 35 to 50 minutes on a braided 6-inch version.

Are braided bully sticks better for dental health?

Yes — braided construction provides better dental coverage than straight sticks. The ridges and valleys created by the braid contact teeth at multiple angles including the back molars where most tartar accumulates. A 2013 Rutgers University study found bully sticks reduced bacteria on dogs' teeth by 60.2%, and the braided format maximizes that benefit through extended contact time and multi-angle abrasion.

What size braided bully stick should I get for my dog?

Match by weight: Under 25 lbs use the 4 to 5 inch Braided Odor-Free. 15 to 40 lbs use the 5 to 6 inch Braided. 40 to 90 lbs use the 7 inch Braided Monster. 30 to 80 lbs focused on dental health use the 8 to 9 inch Braided. 50 or more lbs power chewers use the 12 inch Braided. When in doubt size up — a braided stick that is too large is always safer than one that can be swallowed whole.

Are braided bully sticks safe for puppies?

Yes — the 4 to 5 inch Braided Odor-Free is the recommended braided option for puppies 5 or more months with adult teeth. The braided construction is actually easier for puppies to grip than a straight stick. Always supervise, always remove at 2 to 3 inches, and limit sessions to 10 to 15 minutes for puppies under 7 months.

How many strands are in a braided bully stick?

Quality braided bully sticks use three strands of beef pizzle braided together. This three-strand construction creates the cross-laminated structure that resists jaw compression and delivers the 2 to 3 times duration advantage over straight sticks. Some lower-quality versions use two twisted strands — look for three-strand construction specifically when buying braided bully sticks.

Are odor-free bully sticks really odorless?

No bully stick is completely odorless. Odor-free means the strong, pungent smell of standard bully sticks has been significantly reduced through extended oven-baking that drives off the volatile organic compounds responsible for the strong odor. Most people find odor-free sticks barely noticeable indoors. Your dog will always be able to smell them — that is part of why they are so appealing.

How do odor-free bully sticks reduce smell without chemicals?

Legitimate odor-free bully sticks use extended high-temperature oven baking to drive off residual moisture and the volatile organic compounds that cause the strong smell. No chemicals, no liquid smoke, no bleaching. The result is the same single-ingredient beef pizzle with the same nutritional profile, just dried more thoroughly. Avoid any odor-free stick that lists smoke flavoring or has an unnaturally white color, as these indicate chemical processing or smell masking.

Do odor-free bully sticks have the same nutritional value as regular ones?

Yes. The extended baking process that reduces odor does not meaningfully change the protein content, fat content, or digestibility of the beef pizzle. Odor-free bully sticks retain approximately 86% crude protein and the same amino acid profile as standard sticks. Odor-free sticks are slightly drier, which is why they last marginally longer for many dogs.

Are odor-free bully sticks safe for puppies?

Yes — odor-free bully sticks are actually the recommended format for puppies because the reduced smell makes the introduction less overwhelming. The 4 to 5 inch Odor-Free or 4 to 5 inch Braided Odor-Free are the recommended starting sizes for puppies 5 or more months with adult teeth. Always supervise, limit sessions to 10 to 15 minutes, and remove at 2 to 3 inches.

Why do some bully sticks smell even when labeled odor-free?

Some brands label sticks as odor-free when they have simply added liquid smoke or other flavoring agents to mask the smell rather than reduce it through proper processing. Check the ingredients — genuine odor-free bully sticks contain only beef pizzle with no added flavoring. If you see smoke flavor, hickory smoked, or similar wording, the odor has not been reduced — it has been replaced.

What bully stick lasts the longest for aggressive chewers?

The 12 inch Braided bully stick consistently delivers the longest sessions for aggressive chewers — typically 90 to 150 minutes or more for power chewing breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds. The three-strand braided construction at 12 inches provides maximum cross-laminated resistance. For extreme cases, the 32 to 36 inch Full-Length Cane provides 2 to 4 or more hours for giant breeds and extreme power chewers.

Are bully sticks safe for aggressive chewers?

Yes — bully sticks are one of the safest chews for aggressive chewers specifically because they are fully digestible. Unlike bones which can splinter, or rawhide which can cause blockages, bully sticks break down safely in the digestive system. Always supervise and remove when the stick reaches 2 to 3 inches — aggressive chewers are more likely to attempt to swallow the last piece whole, which is the primary choking risk.

What thickness bully stick do I need for an aggressive chewer?

Monster or Jurassic thickness minimum. Standard, Select, and Jumbo thickness tiers will not last adequately for true aggressive chewers. Look for explicit Monster, Jurassic, or XL thickness designations. For the highest resistance without braiding, the 12 inch Monster Jurassic XL thickness is the appropriate pick. For maximum resistance overall, move to braided construction.

How long should a bully stick last for an aggressive chewer?

A bully stick session should last at least 30 minutes for any aggressive chewer to provide meaningful behavioral benefit. The target range is 60 to 90 minutes. If current sticks last under 30 minutes, step up to Monster or Jurassic thickness or braided construction. If Monster Jurassic lasts under 45 minutes, move to the 12 inch Braided. If nothing hits 60 minutes, consider the 32 to 36 inch Full-Length Cane.

Can aggressive chewers have bully sticks every day?

Yes, with calorie management. A 12 inch Braided contains 240 to 300 calories and the 36 inch Cane contains 400 to 550 calories. For large dogs on daily bully sticks, reduce meal portions accordingly. The 10 percent treat rule applies — treats including bully sticks should not exceed 10 percent of daily caloric intake. For power chewing breeds with high energy output, daily bully sticks are generally fine with appropriate meal adjustment.

What is the longest lasting bully stick?

The 12 inch Braided is the longest lasting standard bully stick, delivering 90 to 150 or more minutes for most dogs 50 lbs and up. For giant breeds and extreme power chewers who finish the 12 inch Braided in under an hour, the 32 to 36 inch Full-Length Jumbo Cane delivers 2 to 4 or more hours. The 12 inch Braided is the right answer for most dogs — the 36 inch Cane is the escalation for exceptional cases.

How long does a bully stick last for the average dog?

For a moderate chewer in the 30 to 60 lb range: a standard 6-inch stick lasts approximately 25 to 50 minutes. A standard 12-inch lasts 45 to 90 minutes. A 12-inch Braided lasts 90 to 150 minutes. Actual duration varies by individual dog jaw strength, chewing style, and attention span. If your dog consistently finishes faster than these estimates, they are a heavy or aggressive chewer and should step up to the next thickness or construction tier.

Does a longer bully stick always last longer?

Not necessarily. For aggressive chewers, a denser shorter stick often outlasts a longer thinner one. A 6 inch Monster Jurassic at XL thickness lasts as long as a standard 12 inch for most medium-large dogs because the density difference outweighs the length difference. Length matters most for moderate chewers. For power chewers, always prioritize thickness and braided construction over length alone.

Why does my dog finish bully sticks so fast?

Your dog is most likely a moderate-to-aggressive chewer being given a standard-grade stick. Step up one tier in thickness: from Standard to Select, Select to Jumbo, Jumbo to Monster, or from straight to braided construction. If a 6 inch standard disappears in 10 minutes, try a 6 inch Monster Jurassic or a 6 inch Braided before buying a longer standard stick — density and construction will help more than length for aggressive chewers.

What is the best bully stick for keeping a dog occupied for 2 hours?

For most dogs 50 lbs and up, the 12 inch Braided consistently delivers 90 to 150 or more minutes. For dogs that need a guaranteed 2 or more hours, the 32 to 36 inch Full-Length Jumbo Cane is the only single bully stick format that reliably delivers that duration for dogs 80 lbs and up. The 12 inch Braided is the right starting pick — the 36 inch Cane is the escalation for extreme cases.

Shop 9” Braided Bully Sticks for Dogs

Description

Length: 8–9 Inches

Construction: 3-Strand Braided Beef Pizzle

~Calories: 175–220 per stick

Crude Protein: ~86%

8–9" Braided Bully Sticks — Best Braided Pick for Dental Health

Moderate–Heavy Chewers · Dental Focus · Dogs 30–80 lbs · 50–100 min Sessions

Best: Dental

8–9" BraidedFormat

175–220~Calories

~86%Crude Protein

50–100 min. Chew Time

30–80 lbs Dog Weight

Three strands of 100% grass-fed, free-range beef pizzle, hand-braided at 8–9 inches and oven-baked without chemicals or artificial additives. The 8–9" Braided Bully Stick is the best braided format for dental health — the extra length over a 7-inch stick translates directly to more total chewing time, which means more minutes of braided-ridge contact across the full tooth surface, including the back molars, where tartar most commonly accumulates. A 2013 Rutgers University study found bully sticks reduced bacteria on dogs' teeth by 60.2% — realizing that benefit requires sustained, focused chewing across the full dentition. The 8–9" Braided consistently delivers that.

For Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Weimaraners, Springer Spaniels, Standard Poodles, and medium-large mixed breeds in the 30–80 lb range — this is the braided pick that hits the sweet spot between session duration and calorie load. At 175–220 calories per stick, it's appropriate for dogs in this weight class without requiring significant adjustments to meals, while still delivering 50–100 minutes of behavioral engagement for moderate chewers.

The braided ridges don't just extend duration — they change how the stick contacts your dog's teeth. A straight stick contacts primarily the front teeth and premolars as the dog gnaws end-to-end. A braided stick at this length creates multi-angle contact as the dog works through the woven strands, reaching the back molars that most straight chews miss entirely. This is the dental advantage that makes braided construction worth the premium for owners specifically using bully sticks as a dental tool between professional cleanings.

Best for: Dogs 30–80 lbs — Labs, Goldens, Border Collies, Aussies, Beagles, Springers, Standard Poodles, and medium-large mixed breeds. Dogs that have had professional dental cleanings and need regular at-home plaque maintenance. Any moderate-to-heavy chewer with a target session length of 50–100 minutes.

The dental science behind braided construction: The ridges and valleys created by three-strand braiding contact teeth at multiple angles simultaneously — including the buccal (outer) surfaces of upper back molars that flat or straight chews rarely reach. For dogs with a history of tartar buildup on back teeth specifically, the 8–9" Braided provides more consistent molar contact per session than any straight stick format at any length.

Why Grass-Fed Beef Pizzle Matters

All BSD braided bully sticks are made from grass-fed, free-range beef pizzle sourced from South American ranches operating under sustainable grazing practices. Grass-fed cattle produce beef with a denser protein matrix and a higher omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio compared to grain-fed alternatives. That density means the braided stick retains its structure longer under jaw pressure — directly contributing to the 50–100-minute session estimates. No hormones, no antibiotics, no artificial preservatives, no chemical treatments of any kind. Oven-baked to eliminate bacterial contamination, the same way beef is processed for human consumption. 100% digestible — breaks down safely in the stomach, unlike rawhide, which can sit undigested for days and cause intestinal blockages.

Nutrition & Sourcing Specs

Nutrition Per Stick

Crude Protein	~86%
Calories per stick	~175–220
Fat content	Low
Ingredients	Beef Pizzle Only
Grain-free	Yes
Shelf life (unopened)	Up to 3 years

Sourcing & Processing

Beef source	Grass-fed, free-range
Hormones/antibiotics	None
Processing	Oven-baked
Chemical additives	None
Rawhide-free	Yes
Digestibility	100% digestible

How to Use — Session Length, Frequency & Sizing

Session length: For moderate chewers 30–60 lbs, expect 60–100 minutes. For moderate chewers 60–80 lbs, expect 50–75 minutes. For heavy chewers in this weight range, expect 35–60 minutes. Let the dog chew naturally until they take a break, then remove and store. Always remove when 3 inches remain — at this length, any size dog can potentially attempt to swallow the remaining piece whole.

Frequency for dental benefit: 3–4 times per week delivers the most consistent plaque and tartar management. A 2013 Rutgers study showed a 60.2% reduction in bacteria when using regular chewing sessions — the dental benefit accumulates with consistent use rather than with occasional sessions. If your primary goal is dental health, the target frequency for this stick is 4x per week.

When to step up or down: If your dog consistently finishes the 8–9" Braided in under 30 minutes, step up to the 12" Braided for longer sessions. If your dog is 30 lbs or under and the 8–9" seems large, try the 7" Braided Monster Odor-Free as a better-proportioned option. If your dog is over 80 lbs with aggressive chewing behavior, the 12" Braided will serve them better.

Multi-dog households: Give each dog their braided stick in separate spaces and supervise for resource guarding. Dogs that are normally calm together may exhibit protective behavior over high-value chews. Separate feeding locations are the simplest solution.

Storage & Shelf Life

Unopened packages stay fresh for up to 3 years in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Once opened, store remaining sticks in a sealed container or zip-lock bag. Use within 2–3 months of opening. Do not refrigerate or freeze — moisture and freeze-thaw cycles degrade texture and can make sticks brittle. Discard any stick that develops an off smell or visible mold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the 8–9" Braided Bully Sticks good for dental health?

Yes — this is specifically what the 8–9" Braided is optimized for. The braided ridges contact teeth at multiple angles, including the back molars, while the 8–9-inch length provides enough total chewing time per session to make the dental contact meaningful. A 2013 Rutgers University study found that bully sticks reduced bacterial counts on dogs' teeth by 60.2%. The braided construction at this length maximizes that benefit. For best results, give 3–4 times per week — the dental benefit accumulates with regular use.

How long do the 8–9" Braided Bully Sticks last?

For moderate chewers in the 30–80 lb range: 50–100 minutes per session. Labs, Goldens, and Border Collies in this weight range typically take 60–90 minutes. Heavy chewers will finish faster — 35–60 minutes. If your dog consistently finishes in under 30 minutes,s they are a power chewer,r and the 12" Braided will serve them better. Always remove when 3 inches remain.

What size dog is the 8–9" Braided best for?

Dogs 30–80 lbs with moderate-to-heavy chewing behavior get the best fit from the 8–9" Braided. This includes Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, Weimaraners, and medium- to large-sized mixed breeds. Under 30 lbs: try the 7" Braided Monster Odor-Free or 5–6" Braided. Over 80 lbs or aggressive chewer: upgrade to the 12" Braided.

Are these bully sticks safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Yes. Single-ingredient, grass-fed beef pizzle with no additives is one of the most digestible chew options available. The clean protein source and absence of chemical additives make it suitable for dogs with food sensitivities. Introduce slowly over 3–5 sessions with increasing duration — start with 10 minutes and build up — to allow the digestive system to adjust to the high-protein treat. Always provide fresh water during chew sessions.

How do the 8–9" Braided Bully Sticks compare to rawhide?

They are fundamentally different products. Rawhide is made from chemically processed cattle hide — treated with lye, hydrogen peroxide, and bleaching agents — and is not fully digestible, meaning it can sit in the stomach for days and cause intestinal blockages. The 8–9" Braided Bully Stick is made from 100% beef muscle (pizzle), oven-baked with no chemical treatment, and is fully digestible — breaks down safely in the stomach the same way beef does. For dental benefits, long-lasting chewing, and digestive safety, braided bully sticks are the clear choice over rawhide.

Instructions

Feeding Instructions :
Please monitor your dog while feeding these gourmet natural treats, they are fully digestible however, please always provide a fresh supply of drinking water for your pup.

Recommendations:
Store your bully sticks in the original zip lock bag under cool conditions

8-9" BRAIDED BULLY STICKS

by Bully Sticks Direct